Name Hamad Arshad
Roll No AGEN241102040
Semster 2nd
Subject Principal of Agronomy
Center Pivot Irrigation System
Definition: The center pivot irrigation system is a method of crop irrigation in which
equipment rotates around a central pivot. It is a form of overhead irrigation and is widely used in
agricultural fields due to its efficiency and automation.
Components of a Center Pivot Irrigation System:
1. Central Pivot Point:
○ The fixed point around which the entire system rotates.
○ Usually connected to a water supply (well, reservoir, or pipeline).
2. Pivot Pipeline (Mainline):
○ A long pipeline supported by towers, typically made of galvanized steel or
aluminum.
○ Carries water from the central pivot to the sprinklers.
3. Towers and Wheels:
○ Several towers mounted on wheels support the pipeline.
○ Each tower has an electric or hydraulic motor to move the system in a circular
path.
4. Sprinklers/Emitters:
○ Mounted along the pipeline at regular intervals.
○ Can be low-pressure or high-pressure sprinklers depending on the design.
5. Control Panel:
○ An automated system that controls the speed, direction, and scheduling of
irrigation.
○ Modern systems may include GPS, sensors, and remote control via mobile apps
or computers.
Working Principle:
● Water is pumped to the central pivot point.
● It travels through the pipeline and is discharged through the sprinklers.
● The entire structure rotates slowly around the central point, irrigating the land in a
circular pattern.
● The amount of water applied can be controlled by adjusting the speed of movement and
the sprinkler type.
Advantages:
● Efficient Water Use: Minimizes water loss through evaporation and runoff.
● Uniform Distribution: Provides consistent water coverage across the field.
● Labor-Saving: Highly automated, reducing the need for manual operation.
● Suitable for Large Areas: Ideal for large, flat terrains.
● Energy-Efficient: Especially when using low-pressure systems.
Disadvantages:
● High Initial Cost: Installation and equipment can be expensive.
● Land Shape Limitation: Best suited for circular or large open fields; not ideal for
irregular terrain.
● Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance of motors, sprinklers, and pipes.
● Water Source Dependence: Needs a reliable water supply and power source.
Applications:
● Widely used for irrigating crops like maize, wheat, soybeans, alfalfa, potatoes, and
cotton.
● Common in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and parts of Africa and
Asia.
9. Limitations
Limitation Description
Shape Circular coverage may leave corners unirrigated in square fields (unless
Restriction supplemented)
Terrain Less effective on steep or highly uneven land
Suitability
Cost Not affordable for small-scale farmers without subsidies
Water Quality Poor water quality can clog nozzles or damage components
Conclusion:
Center pivot irrigation is a modern, efficient, and widely adopted method of irrigating large
agricultural fields. Despite its initial costs, its long-term benefits in terms of water conservation,
labor efficiency, and crop yield make it a valuable tool in modern agriculture.
