Application

Drip irrigation companies maintain a library of the maximum length that a drip line can operate at and still maintain uniformity – either EU or FV.

Below is an example from the Rivulis T-Tape brochure. For each product, you can quickly see how far it can be operated while still maintaining acceptable uniformity. If the product is used for a longer length, then uniformity will fall below accepted standards. Note: The table represents a single lateral only. However, FV/EU should be considered for the entire block.

A couple of points to note:

  • For the example above, it states that this is valid on “flat ground”. If you have a slope, this amount will vary accordingly, and you will need to consult additional technical information or a hydraulic designer to calculate the maximum run length on a slope.
  • You can achieve longer run lengths by using a larger diameter tube and/or lower flow rates.
  • You can also achieve (much) longer run lengths, including on sloping ground, by using Pressure Compensating (PC) drip lines. More on this later.
  • Hydraulic design, via a professional irrigation designer, can also find unique solutions. For example, on a light downhill slope, uniformity can be achieved by offsetting the friction in the pipe.
  • Run lengths may dictate your submain piping placement. If you cannot achieve the run length, you can run the submain pipe in the middle and have the drip laterals in each direction, effectively doubling the distance you can achieve (on flat terrain).

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