The metal orchard irrigation nozzle is an efficient and water-saving irrigation equipment designed specifically for orchards. Its usage method needs to be adjusted comprehensively based on the orchard terrain, crop type, and water source conditions. The following is a detailed operation guide:
1、 Preparation before installation
Select the nozzle range based on the spacing between fruit trees (such as 4-5 meters for apple trees) (usually choosing models with a radius of 6-10 meters).
Material selection: Aluminum alloy (lightweight and corrosion-resistant) or copper alloy (high pressure resistance but high cost), avoiding iron nozzles (easy to rust).
Nozzle type: fan-shaped (covering rectangular areas) or full circle (suitable for center symmetric layout).
The pressure test ensures that the water source pressure is within the rated range of the nozzle (such as 2-5kg/cm ²). If the pressure is insufficient, a booster pump should be installed, and if it is too high, a pressure reducing valve should be installed.
2、 Installation steps
Fixed metal poles (2-3 meters high) are buried 0.5 meters underground and reinforced with concrete to ensure verticality.
The angle of the upright pole needs to be adjusted in the sloping orchard to ensure that the nozzle is level.
Assemble the nozzle by connecting the nozzle body to the top thread of the pole, paying attention to the sealing gasket to prevent water leakage.
Install nozzle: Select the nozzle aperture (such as 2-4mm) according to the requirements and tighten it clockwise.
The pipeline connection uses high-pressure hoses (with a pressure resistance of ≥ 6 bar) to connect the nozzle to the main pipeline, avoiding right angle bends to reduce water resistance.
Suggest installing a filter (80 mesh or more) to prevent sediment from clogging the nozzle.
3、 Debugging and usage
Coverage range adjustment nozzle design: Change the spray angle (such as 90 ° -360 °) by replacing the nozzle or rotating the nozzle bracket.
Pressure regulation: Control the water outlet pressure through valves. The higher the pressure, the farther the range, but the atomization effect decreases.
Irrigation strategy time setting: Short duration, long duration, and high frequency during the seedling stage (e.g. 10 minutes each time, 2 times a day), and extended single irrigation during the mature stage (e.g. 30 minutes each time, 3 times a week).
Rotating irrigation grouping: Divide the orchard into zones and control them through solenoid valves to avoid insufficient water pressure.
Intelligent control (optional) with soil moisture sensor linkage controller to achieve automatic start stop.
Adjust irrigation volume based on meteorological station data (such as increasing water volume by 10% -20% during high temperature weather).
4、 Maintenance and upkeep
Daily cleaning: Rinse the nozzle in reverse after each use to prevent fruit residue and calcium deposition.
Disassemble the nozzle monthly and clean it with a soft bristled brush to avoid scratches from hard objects.
Anti rust treatment: Aluminum alloy nozzles are coated with protective paint every year, while copper nozzles can be soaked in white vinegar for rust removal.
Drain the pipeline in winter, remove the nozzle and store it indoors (necessary measures for antifreeze in the north).
Performance inspection: Check the aging condition of the O-ring every quarter and replace it in a timely manner.
Monitor the actual working pressure of the nozzle with a pressure gauge, and calibrate if the deviation exceeds 15%.
5、 Troubleshooting
Problem: Poor atomization of the nozzle
Possible reasons: nozzle blockage, insufficient water pressure, nozzle wear.
Solution: Clean/replace the nozzle and check the water pump pressure.
Problem: Unstable rotation of the nozzle
Possible reasons: lack of oil in the bearing, tilting of the pole, and presence of air in the water flow.
Solution: Add lubricating oil, adjust the verticality of the pole, and check the sealing of the pipeline.
6、 Optimization suggestions
Combination irrigation: Used in conjunction with drip irrigation systems, the nozzle is used for leaf cooling/fertilization, and drip irrigation is used for root replenishment.
Wind energy utilization: Adjust the nozzle orientation in open orchards, use natural wind to diffuse water mist, and improve coverage uniformity.
Environmental upgrade: Install a water mist regulating device to reduce evaporation losses (such as saving 30% water during nighttime irrigation).
Through scientific installation and regular maintenance, the lifespan of metal orchard irrigation nozzles can reach more than 5 years, effectively improving water utilization efficiency (saving 50% -70% more water than flood irrigation) and helping orchards improve quality and efficiency. Specific parameters should refer to the product manual, and it is recommended to conduct small-scale testing before the first use.