Computer Design of Microirrigation Pipe Systems

A computer program, by means of which the sizes of lateral and feeder pipes required for a microirrigation system is determined, is examined. The program simulates the graphical procedure of fitting energy gradient curves to the ground profile so as to keep pressures reasonably constant. Ground elevations, read from a contour plan at suitable points, are entered as data and used for determining the elevations at all outlet positions. A contour plan of the site is printed on the line printer. Suitable lengths of appropriate pipe sizes are determined by calculating the energy gradient curves so as to be contained by the pressure tolerance band. The inlet flows and pressures of the laterals are used for designing the feeder pipe. The completed design, comprising the sizes and lengths of pipes in each lateral, as well as the feeder, is printed for each block. The total length of each size of pipe and the total material cost is printed for each block. The pressure curves for any lateral or feeder can be printed, if desired.