A unified approach for computing pressure distribution in multi-outlet irrigation pipelines

Abstract

A new analytical procedure taking into account the non-uniform outflow profile for hydraulic analysis and design of multiple outlets pipelines is presented. The method is developed based on presenting a new friction head loss distribution along the lateral. The proposed method simulates pressure and outflow profiles along the trickle or sprinkler irrigation laterals and manifolds, as well as gated pipes. The velocity head change was considered, whereas minor head losses were neglected. The presented technique was compared with the accurate step by step (SBS) method to justify its accuracy for lateral design. The comparison test for various design combinations indicated that the proposed method is sufficiently accurate. The suggested method could be applied in designing irrigation laterals.