Drop pipes are key components of an irrigation or water supply system. They transport water from the main supply line straight to the point of use, either to plant roots in fields or up to the surface from deep wells. These pipes help prevent a loss of water from being wasted by ensuring that the water reaches its destination more accurately and efficiently.
What Is a Drop Pipe?
A drop pipe is a vertical pipe that connects from a main water resource straight to a point of delivery. In irrigation, it links the trunk main line to sprinklers or emitters. In well systems, it lifts water from subterranean pumps to the surface. This arrangement conserves water and minimizes evaporation and leaks.
Common Materials Used
Different kinds of drop pipes are manufactured from different materials. The best choice depends on the purpose of the system, water pressure and the environment.
PVC Drop Pipe
Most often, these are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is a robust, lightweight plastic. It's resistant to chemicals, affordable, and able to withstand pressure. It is a solid choice for some irrigation and well systems.
Polyethylene (PE) and PEX
PE and PEX pipes are flexible, making them easy to install without breaking. These are ideal for systems where the ground shifts frequently or in areas that experience significant temperature fluctuations.
Galvanized Steel
Steel Drop Pipes are very durable and best for deep well systems. They are heavier and more costly than plastic pipes, but durable and able to withstand high water pressure.
Threaded Drop Pipe
In well systems, threaded drop pipes are available to allow for easy connection. Due to their lightweight properties and the ease with which they can be installed and subsequently removed, these pipes are often a popular choice.
Where Drop Pipes Are Used
Drop pipelines are used in several water systems. Here are the most frequent locations:
- Drip Irrigation: With drip systems, water is delivered by drop pipes from a main pipe to emitters located near plant roots. That also helps plants receive just the right amount of water with less waste.
- Sprinkler and Center-Pivot Systems: Sprinklers are sometimes suspended from drop pipes to be near the plants. This minimizes loss of water due to wind and evaporation which therefore renders irrigation more useful.
- Well Water Systems: In deep well systems, drop pipes transport water from subsurface pumps to above ground. These pipes must be durable enough to withstand both the pressure and the depth.
Following Industry Standards
To ensure safety and performance, drop pipes should meet specific industry standards. These include:
- ASTM D1784: Provides quality assurance for rigid PVC materials.
- ASTM D1785: Covers sizes, pressure ratings, and other details for PVC pipes.
- Manufacturers often publish datasheets to help customers select the appropriate piping.
Best Practices for Installation
Long-term success starts with the proper installation of drop pipes. Here are some key tips:
Choose the Right Drop Length
The length of the pipe needs to be the length of the crops the farmers need, or the depth of the well. Most irrigation systems use droppers 12 to 36 inches long.
Space Emitters Evenly
For drip systems, spacing emitters 12–18 inches apart is appropriate. It provides uniform coverage over the planting area.
Use Good Filtration
Filters keep dirt and debris from getting into the drop pipe and emitters. Water acts like oil to the machine; it lubricates and maintains the system without allowing blockages.
Control Water Pressure
This is why using pressure regulators keeps the water pressure within safe limits. This protects the pipes from damage.
Keeping Drop Pipes in Good Shape
Testing and maintenance keep drop pipes running well for years. As with all components of water system infrastructure, drop pipes require treatment to prevent issues and minimize the cost of repairs down the road.
Look for Damage
Pipes can crack, split, or become worn, particularly if they are in direct sunlight, receive foot traffic, or encounter heavy machinery. Flexible pipes can bend or kink, and rigid ones can become brittle and break. Make sure to inspect along the full length of each drop pipe, preferably on a regular basis and before planting season.
Test for Leaks
Leaks can waste gallons of water, make the system less efficient. Some leaks can be difficult to detect, particularly underground or in less visible sections of the system. That’s why a pressure test in the off-season is beneficial. It can expose weak points or small fissures that could expand down the line. By fixing these issues early in the growing season, it saves time and money when irrigation is in full swing.
Keep Filters Clean
Filters are essential in preventing the drop pipe from clogging. If soil or debris gets inside the pipe, it can clog emitters or restrict the flow of water. In order to avoid this, filters should be regularly cleaned or replaced, especially in periods of heavy use or if the quality of the water is poor. Clear filters allow water to flow freely and extend the life of the system.
Winter Preparation
In regions with cold winters, water that remains in pipes can freeze and split or break them. So, one of the best ways to prevent this is to drain all the water out of drop pipes before winter comes. If the pipes can be taken out, storing them in a protected, dry space during the off-season helps them remain in good shape for the following year.
Check Fittings and Connections
Pipe fittings and connectors also need to be inspected regularly. Leaking or pressure loss issues can arise from loose or worn fixtures. Replace any torn clips, seals, or joints to maintain a tight system.
New Technology and Improvements
Smarter technologies are making drop pipe systems even more efficient.
- Subsurface Drip Irrigation (SDI): In SDI systems, drop pipes are placed beneath the ground. They provide water directly to the roots without wetting the soil surface to minimize additional water loss.
- LEPA Systems: Low Energy Precision Application (LEPA) utilizes drop pipes found in center pivots to position water directly at the soil surface. This approach conserves energy and minimizes water waste.
- Smart Sensors: Certain drop systems now come with sensors to measure soil moisture and pipe pressure. These sensors can enable the precise and automated irrigation process.
Conclusion
Discharge water pipes are an essential section of modern water systems. They aid in the efficient delivery of water, conserve resources and contribute to healthier crops. Finding the proper driller to use in farms, gardens, wells, and many other water systems can result in better water usage and system performance. However, by using proper installation methods, quality materials, and regular maintenance, users can achieve reliable and long-lasting results.