Steps for installation
Regardless of your system (e.g. SDI, hanging, single season), the high level steps for drip lateral installation remain relatively constant.
1. Mount the installation equipment to the tractor.
- If using three-point linkage, the front of the installation equipment should be slightly lower than the back of the implement.
- A depth wheel is highly recommended.
- When the tube is to be buried, be sure that the soil is recovered over the area of installation. This can be made with discs, arms, or metal chains.
2. Remove the shrink wrap of the rolls.
Do not use a knife.
3. Mount the roll in the direction so that the drippers will face up when it is fed through (as pictured).
Plastic roller guides can assist to prevent thinner wall products from flipping.
4. Remove the bellyband wrap (if applicable).
Do not use a knife.
5. Thread the tube through the injection tool.
The roll should be positioned directly above the injection tool.
6. Adjust the injection tool to the required depth (if applicable).
7. Secure the beginning of the laterals.
A weighted object or a stake should be used for on-surface / shallow burial applications.
8. Start installation, taking care not to start or stop the tractor abruptly.
9. Leave extra length at both ends of the laterals to allow for expansion and contraction (usually 0.75–1.0 m (2.5–3.5 ft)).
Also leave enough length at the start of the lateral to connect to the submain, and at the end to connect to the flushing manifold if applicable.
10. If hanging the drip line, first roll it out on the ground and give it time to expand/contract.
Then affix it to the wire with Rivulis clips.
11. Check often throughout the process of installation.
SAFETY FIRST: Ensure the safety of every person involved by following the instructions of the relevant manufacturer before use, and by observing all appropriate local safety regulations. These can include, but are not limited to, the correct lifting techniques of drip tube, the operation of and around vehicles and heavy equipment, safety around sharp objects, the use of glues/solvents, and the maintenance of first aid kits. Ensure that all people involved are familiar with and follow all relevant instructions and guidelines.
12. Once installed, do not leave the lateral ends open for a long time.
If the laterals will not be connected/ends terminated within a relatively short period of time, there is a risk of dirt ingestion and insects entering the tube. In this case, the ends should be closed off until they are connected/terminated.
If you are installing by hand and not using a tractor
The end of the drip lateral should be secured to the start point of the row, and the roll/coil should be held and walked along the row to roll out the drip lateral.
Do not mount the coil/roll at the end of a row and pull the drip lateral, as this can damage (stretch) the tube.
