Zerihun D and Sanchez CA
This manuscript is the first of a three-part paper that presents the development and evaluation of a numerical hydraulic model for linear-move sprinkler irrigation systems equipped with pressure reducing valves (prvs). Discussions on model development and evaluation are presented in part-two and three of the article, respectively. The current manuscript, on the other hand, focusses on system description, statement of pertinent model assumptions, and the definition of the lateral hydraulic simulation problem and as such it is intended to set the background for the discussions that follow in the companion manuscripts. A concise description of the configuration of the linear-move sprinkler irrigation system, considered in the current study, and its components is presented here. In addition, system attributes that are of particular relevance to hydraulic modeling of linear-move laterals are discussed. Noting that pressure reducing valves are key to achieving a controlled application of irrigation in linear-move systems, the full range of the operating modes of prvs are defined, in the context of irrigation laterals, and their effects on system hydraulics are described. In addition, assumptions that form the basis of the lateral hydraulic simulation model, presented in the companion manuscript, are stated here. Finally, the lateral hydraulic simulation problem is defined and the linear-move lateral is schematized as a branched pipe network, consisting of links and nodes, for hydraulic analysis and simulation.
PDFShare this article
Irrigation & Drainage Systems Engineering received 835 citations as per Google Scholar report
