Optimization of Water Supply Using Electric Drives
Water supply is one of the most common applications of electric drives in irrigation systems. When it is necessary to maintain a virtually constant flow of water, but the pressure varies due to the terrain, there is the possibility to adjust the pump pressure by regulating the motor speed. This opens up great potential for significant energy savings!
Flexibility in Irrigation Systems
This technology can be used in all types of irrigation systems, from micro-drip irrigation to circular irrigation installations. In systems with fixed blocks, such as micro-irrigation, the irrigated area can be divided into different zones with varying heights, allowing the pumping station to supply different pressures to each of these zones.
- For example, if there are 5 zones that require pressures of 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 bar, this allows filling the highest working area.
- In this case, the frequency converter will increase or decrease the speed of the pump, depending on which irrigation valve is open in that zone.
Automation of Irrigation Processes
The change in pump speed can be carried out both manually and automatically. When using circular installations, if the irrigated area has a slope, the working area can also be divided into sectors that require different shower pressures.
Zoning with different pressure requirements can be determined using limit switches, which are activated or deactivated during the operation of the installation. Signals are sent to the frequency converter to activate different operating modes. Signals can be transmitted via wires as well as wirelessly.
Energy Savings
The main goal of this technology is to achieve the minimum level of energy consumption required to perform a specific task and to reduce unnecessary energy waste on throttle devices. While completely eliminating such devices may be challenging, their use can be minimized, applying them only in situations that require fine-tuning.