Plastic pipes for the garden. Drip irrigation with their own hands made of polypropylene pipes

Buckets and hoses for watering the garden garden are used less and less. Often, land owners in suburban horticulture prefer to ease their own lives by installing an irrigation system. And immediately the question arises of installing a garden water pipe, designed to supply water to the beds and its distribution there. But what pipes for watering in the country is better to choose? After all, there are a lot of plastic and metal options with different pluses.

Irrigation of beds and fruit trees in the country by pipes can be organized in several ways. Choosing this or that system, it is necessary to start from the type of soil on the site, the general climatic conditions and the desire (or reluctance) to waste your time in watering the garden.

The manual way of moistening the soil is too laborious. Country cottage is designed for recreation. Often, the townspeople go to her on the weekends to work hard in the sweat of their face. There are those who like this pastime even very much. But most want to just relax outside the city. However, a small garden, apple and currant in the countryside is almost everyone. And they should be watered.

All systems of artificial irrigation of the suburban area are divided into two types: automatic and semi-automatic - the first means shifting control over the process of watering completely to automation, and the second partial human participation

According to the method of water supply, there are three types of non-irrigated irrigation systems:

1. Drip surface.
2. Inland soil.
3. Sprinkling (sprinkling).

The technology of creating "artificial rain" is the most common. For the device of such a system, suburban area  It is necessary to install several rotary sprinklers and bring water pipes to them. However, such sprinklers spend too much water. Part of it simply evaporates, not reaching the soil. This type of country irrigation is mainly intended for watering large lawns.

Two other versions of automatic watering systems imply the supply of moisture to the ground or to it directly next to the plant being irrigated. Perforated pipes, droppers and bubblers are used for this. Such a method of irrigation is more economical in terms of water consumption, but because of the large length of the water lines, it is more expensive in the device.

For an intrasoil irrigation system, a pipeline with perforation should be buried in the ground at a depth of 20-30 cm, and for a surface pipe it can be laid on the ground

Pipes for all types of watering the garden are selected by diameter in the range from 25 to 32 mm. If the pressure in the central water supply system in the country is low or the water is fed into the system from the tank by gravity, the cross section should be closer to the upper boundary. Otherwise, you can save by taking pipes and fittings with a diameter of 25-27 mm.

At smaller values, the pipeline will not work efficiently, watering the ground for too long. And at large sizes it will be unnecessarily expensive pleasure. The flow of water will still fill this pipe only halfway. A pipe products of large diameter are certainly more expensive than their more subtle counterparts.

Features of metal water pipes

Plastic products are now used everywhere. This material does not rust, is cheap and easy to install. But the metal has not been written off yet. On domestic dachas you can find a lot of metal water pipes used to irrigate the plantations on the site. In many respects it is a legacy of the Soviet era, when there were simply no plastic pipes. However, not everything is so simple, the metal has a lot of advantages.

Owners of summer cottages prefer to equip irrigation with the help of metal pipes because of their durability and strength - if they accidentally step on, they definitely will not break

Among the advantages of watering pipes of their metal are:

• resistance to kinks;
• frost resistance;
• a long service life of 20-30 years;
• high mechanical strength.

Metal conduits can be safely laid under pedestrian paths and platforms near the garage, where vehicles are placed. They will not break under pressure from above. They can bend, but they will not break. Plastic pipes such loads are unlikely to withstand. Plastic in comparison with metal is too fragile. In winter, plastic water pipes without insulation on the street is better not to be exploited.

Metal pipes for organizing irrigation in the country are made of suitable materials:

• become;
• galvanized steel;
• copper.

The main disadvantage of the first option is a high susceptibility to corrosion. When in the ground, the steel pipe inside and outside starts to rust quickly. The use of galvanized stainless steel with greater corrosion resistance makes it possible to extend the life of such a water conduit, but leads to its significant rise in price.

Copper pipes rust is not terrible, but they are worth a lot. Plus, we must not forget about the problem of theft. Not all holiday villages are protected. And copper - this is a welcome prey for uninvited visitors visiting strangers' empty summer cottages in winter with the purpose of stealing. It will always be in the price of scrap metal buying bases.

Compared to plastic analogues, pipes made of metal from the road are difficult and more difficult to install, but if they are not cut, they will last much longer than their counterparts

Often the irrigation system fits into the ground. Digging it for the winter is to load yourself with extra work. Usually it is preserved and remains in the ground. But plastic in the cold becomes fragile, which often leads to its destruction.

And steel and copper calmly tolerate negative temperatures. Pipes of them can safely be left in the soil for winter. You just need to drain the water out of them.

Review of plastic pipes for cottages

There are several types of plastic pipes, which differ greatly in their characteristics. Some of them at the dacha for irrigation can be used year-round, and others - only in the summer and autumn until frost. Some are recommended to be laid on the ground, while others should be buried in it to protect the pipeline from direct sunlight.

A plastic cottage water conduit for the garden can be made using pipes made of polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride

Assembly of plastic pipes for watering the irrigation system at the dacha should not cause problems. To make everything possible independently. The plastic has a small weight, it is easy to cut and connect. It is only necessary to draw up the pipeline diagram correctly, accurately calculating the necessary number of fittings and the diameter of the pipe products.

Option # 1: Polyethylene (PE)

The first in terms of polarity and durability - low-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes. The term "low pressure" here refers to the technology of manufacturing a plastic product, rather than the performance of a pipeline. PE is quite suitable not only for low-pressure suburban water conduit, but also widely used in the installation of heating systems and hot water.

From polyethylene I make pipes HDPE and PVD - at the dacha it is better to use the first option, which is stronger, and also more resistant to frost and water hammers

In stores you can find products made of cross-linked polyethylene labeled PEX. These pipes have higher strength characteristics, but also a higher price. It is not advisable to buy them for a watering canal in the country. There are analogues cheaper, which with the task of supplying water for watering the garden will cope without problems.

In comparison with other plastic pipes, polyethylene more:

• flexible and elastic;
• resistant to formation inside the ice (not torn);
• are strong in tearing and bending;
• are costly.

The working temperature of polyethylene pipes is from -70 to +80 0 C. They are not afraid of frosts. The irrigation system of them will calmly overwinter in the ground, and in spring it will start working without any problems and additional tricks.

Connect pipes from HDPE by welding and using fittings. Use the first way at the dacha is not worth it. The irrigation system in this case is not separable. Plus, for work you will need to buy or rent a special soldering iron, which you need to spend extra. This option is more for in-house water pipelines. It is better to use compression fittings.

If necessary, the coupler can be unscrewed, which makes it easy to replace the leaky area or to change the entire layout of the distribution of the country water supply

Another plus in favor of the choice for organizing irrigation at a summer residence of polyethylene pipes is their resistance to ultraviolet radiation. Watering system of them can be made superficial, laying it on the soil. The walls of pipelines from PE do not collapse under the sun. You can not say this about other plastic pipelines. They are not friends with ultraviolet rays.

Option # 2: Polypropylene (PP)

Pipes made of polypropylene in comparison with the first option are more resistant to high temperatures, but they do not tolerate cold. They are mainly used for the device heating systems. But also for watering the garden they are also quite applicable.

Compound polypropylene pipes  is produced by diffuse butt welding or into the socket using an electric soldering iron with replaceable nozzles of the appropriate size

Most often, polypropylene pipes are connected with fittings. To do this, their ends are heated to 260 degrees, so that the polymer begins to melt, and then insert the connecting piece. After cooling, such a joint turns into a monolith, which is difficult to break.

The system of garden and garden watering from polypropylene pipes refers to an undivided view. And considering that this plastic is afraid of ultraviolet, it also needs to be buried in the ground or covered from the sun. Plus, the use of fittings and diffusion soldering technology complicates the installation work. Polypropylene - not the easiest and most convenient option for giving.

Due to the high cost of the pipe, PP loses to the polyethylene equivalent. However, the fittings for it (tees, transitions, turns) are several times cheaper than those needed to connect products from PE. On the other hand, polypropylene pipelines are more durable. Being in the ground, they are able to withstand the weight of a person and not break.

Option # 3: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

The cheapest option is polyvinyl chloride (PVC, PVC). These pipes are characterized by low resistance to ultraviolet radiation. But the sun does not need to be left for long. Frosts are not as scary as polypropylene products. But at negative temperatures they become more fragile and easily damaged from a weak blow.

The main advantage of PVC pipes is the cheapness even in comparison with other plastic analogues, from them at the dacha it will be possible to mount the cheapest watering system

Fittings and special glue are used to connect the PVC pipeline. The general installation technology is comparable to polypropylene version, only for softening the polymer instead of high temperature adhesive is used. The resulting water conduit is not collapsible.

If the pipeline for watering the garden from polyvinyl chloride is not protected from the sun, then it will not last long. With prolonged exposure to sunlight, this plastic starts the photodestruction. As a result, the product from it becomes less durable and plastic. The walls of the water pipe made of PVC are made more solid and brittle.

For the installation of irrigation in the country, polyvinylchloride pipes should be taken in dark colors. They contain additives that increase the resistance to UV. And the sun does not directly affect the water in such a highway, which reduces the risk of growth inside algae.

Regardless of the type of plastic pipe chosen, it is possible to perform self-pouring from it yourself. Here the main thing is to weigh all the minuses and pluses of each plastic without exception. The cheapest option can be both the most successful investment of money, and their empty waste.

If you make mistakes in the choice of supplies and installation, then the garden and garden water conduit for irrigation will not last long. Often the main pipeline of such a pipeline is made of stainless steel, and the outlets to beds and trees are made of plastic in a split version. By winter, these plastic pipes  can be removed and stored. Such a system will be the most durable and reliable.

Video: how to choose a pipe for the garden

The following video materials will help you navigate in various types of plastic pipes, which are most often used for the installation of automatic and semi-automatic irrigation systems in the country.

Organization of drip irrigation in the garden with their own hands:

Mounting technology plastic water supply  for irrigation beds in the country:

In detail about polyethylene water pipes:

For the device of watering in the country garden is required very little time. But how much effort will be saved. Pipes for a similar system can be used both metal and plastic. Their choice largely depends on the technology of moistening the soil. Making holes for internal irrigation in steel is still a pleasure. Plastic will last longer than polyethylene. But if the cheapness of performance is at the head of the corner, then PVC should be chosen.

How can you organize effective drip irrigation from polypropylene pipes yourself? What do you need to know for this? Let's try to understand.

This is a method of irrigation. Water is dosed to the basal zone of irrigated plantations. Dosage is carried out with the help of special devices called dispensers-droppers. The use of such technology saves water and other resources, for example, energy, labor, etc. The use of automatic irrigation at the dacha allows for early and abundant harvesting, reduces soil erosion, spread of various diseases and weed plants.

This technology was tested in Israel and after it proved its high performance, it was used all over the world. This method of irrigation is used in agricultural enterprises and in household plots. What do you need to organize the automatic watering of the garden?

Completion of the drop system

The following elements are included in the set of the most simple system:

• the water supply line;
• drip lines.

If there is a possibility of connection to a centralized water supply, then, as usual, the system is connected to it. Otherwise, the design of the irrigation system can be connected to pumping station  or to the storage capacity. For the construction of pipelines, pipes Dy25 or Dy32 are used. For their connection, fittings are used.

Note! "The use of fittings ensures a high rate of assembly of the irrigation system."

Drip lines are used for direct water supply to plants. In practice, two types of lines are used: tubes and tapes. They are made of polyethylene. The diameter is from 16 to 20 mm, the wall thickness is 100 μm. The tape is a wrapped polyethylene strip and welded around the edges. On its surface, with a pitch, as a rule, 200 mm, there are holes, from which moisture gets to the roots of the plant.

Note! "Practice shows that a polyethylene pipe with a diameter of 10-12 is more often used for organizing watering of garden trees."

Tubes are used to supply water to trees growing on the site, and a tape for irrigation of the garden. Next, consider how you can make drip irrigation yourself.

Installation of drip irrigation system

Properly assembled irrigation system allows you to achieve effective saturation of the soil with moisture.

The main questions in the organization of drip irrigation:

• site plan;
• water flow for irrigation;
• uniformity of water distribution between plants and seedlings.

Calculation of water flow

When carrying out calculations it is necessary to take into account the properties of the irrigated soil, the duration of irrigation, the layout of the water supply points.
Water can be taken from the water body, any, or from the water supply. The level of water purification depends on the source of water supply. To ensure the purity of water, it is advisable to install several filters in a row. For example, sand and gravel for coarse cleaning  and disk for thin. A polystyrene foam component is installed in the disk filters, providing final cleaning.

By the way! "From the cost of such an irrigation system, 10-15% is spent on filters."

Necessary materials and tools

The watering device will require an electric drill. The size of the pipe determines the diameter of the drill, for processing the Dy32 pipe and installing a crane with a choke end through a rubber gasket, it will be necessary to use a 14 mm drill bit. To work with the Dy25 pipe and install a start crane with a fitting end, a 10 mm diameter drill must be used. The wood drill has a spike at its end, which will not allow the drill to walk through the body of the pipe when drilling.

The basis of everything is the plan

Before organizing watering, the summer resident should prepare the project.
  On it you need to specify the location of beds, the distance between them and individual plants or young seedlings. To make it up, you have to take a construction roulette, perform all measurements and draw it on paper.

Attention! "In addition to the size and location of beds, it will be necessary to show the location of the source of water."

Build order

The production of drip irrigation begins with the fact that the main water pipe is connected to a reservoir in which water is stored. Depending on the volume of watering, as a tank, an ordinary barrel or, for example, an eurocube can be used. The irrigation tank must stand on a stand of sufficient height to provide sufficient water. As a rule, it is 1-1.5 meters from the ground. At the connection site, it will be necessary to install a filter, or even two, if there are such devices in the system, it will be able to last more than one year. On the filter housings there is an arrow that shows the movement of water.

Attention! When using a container, it is necessary to monitor its level as a source of water for irrigation.

Building a highway

The main line is constructed of polypropylene pipes. Installation begins with the fact that you need to prepare the pipes. Cutting off a tube of the required length from the bay, it is necessary to fix the start cranes. The step of their installation is determined by the distance between beds in the plot. To fix the start crane, it is necessary to drill holes. Remove burrs, install a plastic crane.

Attention! "If it is a tap with a clamp, then it is necessary to tighten the nut until it stops."

Preparing the drip strip

Manufacturers produce a tape with a different pitch of watering holes - 200, 250, 300 mm. It is necessary to note the length of the bed and cut off the tape of the required length. The free end must be muffled. This operation is performed as follows. It is necessary to cut off a piece of tape 40-50 mm long from the free end. Then, the free end wrap in reverse side  on 3-4 turns. After this, pull the cut piece of tape to the folded end. Such a plug will ensure complete tightness. This tape can last several years.
  Connecting the tape and the start crane
  To facilitate the connection of the tape and the tap, it is desirable to use a lubricant, for example, a liquid soap. It must be applied to the outlet fitting and after that the tape can be worn on the nozzle.

Attention: "the tape must rest on the body of the crane!"

The last step is tightening the nut. The connection is ready. You can serve water. That is, the irrigation system is ready for operation.

Such a system has several drawbacks.

1. Constant control over the amount of water in the tank.
2. Clogged injectors.

The first can be eliminated by ensuring a constant supply of water from the water pipe, the second is eliminated by installing a filter for fine cleaning.

Start

Before the beginning of irrigation of beds it is necessary to wash out all system thoroughly. To do this, remove the plugs and lower them into the watering tank at the cottage. After this, you need to start the water. The irrigation system will be ready for operation after pure water comes from it.

By the way! "It is necessary to periodically check the condition of the filters and clean them. Otherwise there will be a blockage of the holes through which water enters the root of the plant. The watering tank should be kept closed. "

The above is the principle of installing a system for watering the garden. I must say that it practically does not change when constructing such a system for greenhouses and winter gardens, which can be installed in the house. The only thing is that for equipment such an irrigation system in the greenhouse will need to purchase additional equipment.

System of plastic bottles

In addition to the above-described drip irrigation system, there is one more, with the use of plastic bottles, which is much easier and cheaper. But we must immediately say that such a device for watering the garden is less effective and is often used as a temporary measure.

To organize such a watering system, several plastic bottles are needed. The process is as follows.

At the bottom of the bottle you need to make a few holes, you can use a needle for this. The number of holes depends on the condition of the ground.

Then the bottle with the holes made must be buried in the ground. After that, you can pour water into it. There is one subtlety, they constantly need to add water otherwise the soil will doubt it.

Auto-watering is not difficult

How to make autoplay in the country with their own hands? If the system is powered by a constant source of water - a centralized water supply or a well, it makes sense to think about constructing an autodetect. To do this, you need to install the controller after the filter. It can be programmed to turn on at a certain time, say, after 4 hours. That's so easy to build a system of watering in the country.

Installing an automatic drip irrigation system can be calm for the fact that even in the absence of the owners, the irrigation of the site will be regularly carried out. These systems are most often used for greenhouses or greenhouses.

Let's consider how to make auto-watering in the country on your own.

In fact, not everything is so complicated. Increasingly, owners of greenhouses equip them with automatic irrigation systems. And it is justified how much time is wasted to water in the country, while respecting certain standards. Some people buy ready-made systems in the store, and some prefer to build it on their own. It should be noted that often, self-made systems are no worse than those bought in the store.

What is included in the

In order to obtain full automatic irrigation, the owner of the greenhouse should be ready to purchase separate devices for irrigation:

1. a control unit, sometimes called a timer, but this is not entirely true;
2. battery;
3. a pump that creates an overpressure in the system;
4. tee;
5. a watering tape;
6. hose, the size of its diameter determines the type of control unit;
7. clamping yoke;
8. corners;
9. storage tank for water.

The owner of the greenhouse should remember that for the efficient operation of such a system, a water supply line must pass by. There are models operating from the electrical network.
  The control unit ensures the irrigation of the greenhouse for a certain cycle. It occurs several times a day in equal portions. This approach ensures efficient use of the battery, uniform moistening of the soil, water saving.

Depending on the brand of the control unit, the number of cycles can be in the range of 100. In addition, with the control unit, it is possible to control the amount of water supplied, for example, from 1 to 99 liters.

By the way! "On some models, it is possible to set the daily delay. This can be called smart watering in the country. "

In fact, it is not so difficult to organize drip irrigation with your own hands.

Modern man has long ceased to rely on the confluence of circumstances and the mercy of nature. Today, in all possible ways, he tries to be confident of his future, and he is as reliable as possible to protect the unforeseen, news and gifts of nature.

Carefully creating beds more practical not to rely on natural rainfall, and in time to think about quality and proper watering. To do this, you can create an excellent system for supplying water to each plant. It can dose water only for the amount of consumption of the root system of the plant or place water on a special ditch. Admirers of civilized management of garden or vegetable farms can now choose the type of industrial irrigation equipment that suits them. In today's product lines, the most common systems are based on the plastic pipes itself different designs. It is equally important that in systems that are produced by these or that companies, the complex of pipes and their connections are precisely adjusted, connected by means of special means and the whole structure is checked on universal stands. Which are better to buy, view all the existing types of irrigation systems, a variety of pipes for watering the cottages and infield, what product range is better to choose? We will try to answer all the questions in order. First of all, it is necessary to study the features of the constructive solution.

It is a well-known truth that the key to a good harvest is timely and sufficient watering. Who has already come across this, knows that carrying out this process can be the next. The choice of methods depends on the climate, the terrain and the variety of species of trees, fruit plants, vegetables and berry bushes that are available. To more accurately find out which components are part of the traditional irrigation system, how important each of the parts is, and what can be used in the production of a particular system, one must consider all the traditional irrigation systems:

• With the surface method of watering the jet  moisture is produced by means of open digging of the reservoirs on the soil. The implementation of intrasoil irrigation occurs from shallowly buried into the ground network tubes with characteristic holes.
• Reception by means of sprinkling. At the same time, moisture is piped through the pipeline system to the garden area, after which the water masses are poured down onto the garden plants with the help of dissecting devices of very different design. The link is described in detail.
• The principle of drip irrigation is treated as a water supply  namely to the places of formation of the root. This solution is one of the most modern solutions, both qualitative and economical, the principle allows moisture to go directly to the root system.

On the video - how to organize a watering system in the country:

The choice is for a gardener, but when implementing a solution to the installation of an irrigation conceptual solution, one must rely on one's own views, material possibilities and site characteristics. But stopping for one of the ways you like, it should be remembered that the basis of each of them is a stationary feed and a dosed distribution of water.

The conceptual basis is as follows:

1. The presence of a distribution pipeline.
2. An electric device for intensifying the supply of water masses.
3. Gaskets and gaskets, cocks for regulation of water flows.

In order for your irrigation system to be reliable and sound, it is necessary to consult with specialists from specialized companies. Even more reliable and proven will be a proprietary irrigation system, mounted by professionals from a specialized company.

How to Make Your Own Hands

When you have chosen the type of irrigation system, you need to study all possible options for installing irrigation utilities. To do this, do not need a lot of materials, basic and auxiliary tools. It is necessary simply to find on the Internet on specialized sites the necessary conceptual solutions for water supply systems and to select the appropriate method.

To minimize the financial costs for the creation of irrigation, it is worthwhile to rationalize the cost of production of these works, by installing permanent extraction systems.

This is a popular piping system with the distribution of jets. The most popular and rational method is the use of pipes to provide water to the entire site, made from the most reliable and reliable metals and alloys, other modern materials.

Fans of independent engineering development and the creation of unique pipeline extraction of water or drip irrigation need to know which pipes are preferably used in certain projects.

After all, the reliability of the service and the durability of the water supply system depend on the choice of the pipe. Naturally, the main criterion of choice is material prosperity and financial possibilities.

On the video - watering system in the country house with their own hands:

Main types of pipes

• Of metal. Distinguished by strength, sufficient durability and availability. Negative properties are the comparative cost of fittings, bends and taps, susceptibility to corrosion, sufficient labor-consuming installation, special skills are required. Work with these materials is best entrusted to specialists.
• Plastic. More modern plastic pipes require a completely different approach. The most inexpensive and practical are PVC pipes, which do not respond to the difference in climatic differences in temperature and humidity, are used when creating aboveground and underground type  methods of irrigation. The connection of PVC pipes is made by pouring special mastics or adhesives and structural fittings. The production of installation works does not require a special skill level. The automatic system includes a set of the following parts:
  • Controlling constructions for irrigation.
  • Several valves are electromagnetic type.
  • Indicator or mechanical sprayers.
  • The pipes themselves and a set of auxiliary devices.
• Polyethylene. The most elastic and durable polyethylene pipes, not bursting when the water freezes. The best is considered diametral size from 20 to 40 mm. The material does not require particularly precise techniques and work skills, you need a device for soldering or special connection of the edges and seams of tubes.
• Polypropylene  The pipe is more economical, stronger in relation to corrosion processes, and is distinguished by its durability. It is connected by means of soldering the joints and fixing the couplings. Through this material, accessories and simple technology, you can mount drip irrigation with your own hands.

On the video - how to choose the irrigation system in the country of plastic pipes:

Despite the fact that you need to buy in the store, all that is required in order to mount the system yourself, this work for those who do everything qualitatively and scrupulously. If you still lack the skills or you do not have the opportunity to find all the necessary details, such an important "human" factor works in this troublesome business and the whole effect leads to a minimum, then it is better to buy the finished irrigation system and install it with the help of a proven master. To date, a significant number of firms provide services for the production of assembly of similar systems.

Manufacturers and prices

As it was said above, the most acceptable options for garden and vegetable plots today are synthetic pipes and communications. Domestic industry produces a huge range of plastic fittings, accessories to it and connecting structures from the same material.

The peculiarity of the drip irrigation system is that the moisture supplied through a special polymer tape or drippers is delivered directly to the root system of plants. Due to this, the total water consumption is reduced and the yield of crops is increased. In addition, drip irrigation does not result in waterlogging of the soil and reduces the likelihood of the appearance of weeds - they do not receive a sufficient amount of moisture.

It is not difficult to create a similar system on your own private plot. This article will provide you with a detailed step by step instructions  on the design and arrangement of drip irrigation using polypropylene pipes.

Polypropylene pipes - main characteristics

Compared with conventional metal pipes, polypropylene products have a set of advantages that make them a good choice for mounting the drip irrigation system on the plot.

It is worth highlighting such advantages of PP pipes:

• low weight;
• cheapness;
• simplicity of installation;
• absence of condensate;
• almost complete absence of deposits on internal walls;
• service life is about 50 years.

In order to standardize the characteristics, all polypropylene pipes are labeled, dividing them into four groups.

1. PN10 - pipes designed only for cold water  (up to +45 degrees) and only at pressures up to 10 atmospheres. Due to the relatively weak characteristics are rare.
2. PN16 - pipes designed for operation at pressures up to 16 atmospheres and temperatures up to +60 degrees. Suitable for drip irrigation system.
3. PN20 - maximum working pressure is 20 atmospheres, can withstand temperatures up to +95 degrees.
4. PN25 - according to the permissible temperature are similar to the previous type, the pressure in them can reach up to 25 atmospheres. They are supplied with reinforced interlayers, which increase the strength of the pipe.

In the trunks of drip irrigation, the working pressure does not exceed 2-3 atmospheres, and the water temperature is equal to or lower than the ambient air temperature. Therefore, polypropylene pipes PN10 and PN16 can be used here. The application of PN20 and PN25 is permissible, but their characteristics are redundant for such a system.

Drip irrigation with your hands - drawing up a plan

This system consists of several elements, we will become acquainted with the features of each of them.

The design of drip irrigation for a greenhouse or infield is divided into several steps that are performed sequentially.

Step 1.  Determine the area of ​​the site for which you need to arrange drip irrigation. Make measurements, calculate the number and length of beds, the distance between them, as well as the number of plants on each of them.

Step 2.  Calculate the amount of water needed to irrigate all crops on the plot. On average, 15 to 30 liters of water per day are required per square meter. More accurate values ​​are calculated using the table below.

Table №1. The daily requirement of some crops in water.

Take into account that the water flow per each individual plant is a variable quantity. The value varies depending on the average temperature, the level of precipitation and the characteristics of the soil on which the crops grow. Excessive watering is also harmful, as well as insufficient, as it leads to decay of plant roots.

Step 3.  Based on the figures obtained in the previous step, determine the volume of the water tank and the cross section of the main pipeline. The table below shows the maximum possible flow rate depending on the diameter of the pipe. The capacity of the tank and the cross-section of the main highway should be selected with a small margin of performance. This small reserve may be needed in case of increased water discharge for irrigation.

Table. Dependence of the maximum water flow on the diameter of the pipeline.

Diameter of pipe, mm	Water consumption, l / h
16	600
20	900
25	1800
32	3000
40	4800
50	7200

Step 4. Determine the number and length of taps connected to the common trunk. If as a direct means of delivering moisture to plants a tape for drip irrigation is used, then proceed from the rule: one bed is a single tap with a tape. And if you use polypropylene pipes and droppers from one branch, you can provide watering at once two beds.

In the presence of highways and bends, to maintain the pressure in the system it is necessary to use a pump.

Step 5.  Determine the distance between the droppers connected on the branches of polypropylene pipes. One dropper can "feed" the two plants in one bed (or four when the tap is located between adjacent beds) with the appropriate adapter.

Step 6.  Take a double notebook sheet in a cage or a drawing paper-graph paper and draw a sketch of the future drip irrigation system. Transfer to it the location of the tank with water, containers with fertilizers, a crane, a filter, a main pipe, tee-unions and bends.

Step 7.  Calculate the amount of materials needed to equip the irrigation system. The calculations and sketch created in the previous design stages will help you in this.

Capacity setting

The tank with water should be located at a certain height, so that the force of gravity acting on the liquid creates pressure in the pipes of the drip irrigation system. On average, the capacity is raised to a height of 2 meters - thus, the line provides a sufficient pressure for effective irrigation of 40-50 square meters. If the plot with beds has 6 aboutthe larger the area, either the tank is raised higher, or the pump is installed in the main pipeline.

Step 1.  Build a support for the container. The easiest way to make it is from a bar with a large cross-section and thick wide boards. Cut the beam into some depth into the ground, from above place the boardwalk. For greater strength between the supports, install the cross members. Instead of timber and planks, you can use bricks or steel pipes.

Step 2.  Mount the connection to the drip irrigation line on the tank. Establish the choke and the crane at height of 5-10 centimeters from a bottom of a capacity - so in the pipeline large particles of a dust and a dirt will not get.

Step 3.  On the opposite side of the tank, connect the water pipe. Use a shut-off valve with the float mechanism  - the device will automatically open to refill the tank and close when the water level reaches a maximum.

Step 4.  Lift and install the tank on the support. Direct connection of the tank to the water supply line should be postponed to the last stage of the drip irrigation system arrangement.

An open tank can be used as a tank - in this case it will be partially replenished by rain. But at the same time, take care of the installation good filter  - together with the sediments in the tank will get a lot of dust, debris and leaves, because of which it is possible to clog the pipes.

Laying of the main line and taps

Since polypropylene pipes are used as material for the main pipeline and bends, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with how to properly cut and connect them with each other.

To obtain a clean cut without burrs and deformations, you can use special scissors-cutters, designed to work with products made of plastic. If, for any reason, the purchase of such a tool is impossible, then a hacksaw for metal is used as an alternative, or, when working with small pipes, a sharp clerical knife. However, the quality of the cut will decrease, and this will not be affected by the longevity of the pipe and the quality of the connection with other elements of the system.

The situation is more complicated with the combination of polypropylene pipes with fittings and other elements.

There are three ways:

• by soldering;
• with the help of crimping;
• through cold welding.

The first method gives a strong and durable connection capable of withstanding a great pressure in the system. But for him you will need a special soldering machine with a set of baits and some skills to work with a similar tool.

Tool for soldering polypropylene pipes

Step 1. Inspect the fitting and pipe section for defects or defect.

Step 2.  Degrease the outer surface of the pipe at the location of the intended joint and the inner surface of the fitting.

Step 3.  Install the appropriate nozzle on the soldering tool - the hole in the pipe part must correspond to the outer diameter, and in the fitting part - to the inner section.

Step 4.  Warm the soldering tool and the nozzle.

Step 5.  Simultaneously insert the tube and put the fitting in the appropriate parts of the nozzle. Wait until the time specified in the instructions for the tool. The soldering iron will warm up the outer part of the pipe and the inside of the fitting.

Step 6.  Simultaneously remove the fitting and pull the pipe from the nozzle and connect them to each other to the depth of warming up. Hold for five seconds, then allow some time to cool down the connection.

The main drawback of using a soldering machine is the need for a soldering tool. It is quite expensive, and it is not practical to use it once.

In addition, such a compound is not separable. An alternative is the use of compression fittings and a crimping wrench. However, in the case of polypropylene pipes, the quality and tightness of such a connection leave much to be desired. A simpler and cheaper method of connection is "cold welding" with a special glue.

Step 1.  Examine the fitting and the pipe for defects. If there are no defects, dock without glue, mark the depth of the connection with a marker.

Step 2.  Degrease and clean the bonded surfaces of the pipe and fitting.

Step 3.Apply glue to the outside of the pipe and the inside of the fitting.

Step 4.  Dock the elements together. Make sure that they are connected smoothly, without distortion to one side. Keep them in a similar position for 15 to 30 seconds. The water supply in such a connection is permissible only after 24 hours.

Connection of PP pipes by the method of "cold welding"

Make the pipelines of the drip irrigation system detachable and easily dismantled using American type fittings.

Before starting the installation of the main line and bends, it is necessary to decide which method of pipe arrangement is preferable - surface or deep. In the first case, all elements of the system simply fit on the ground (or above it with the help of bracket-holders). Pipes lying on the surface are easy to repair and replace, but they can also be easily damaged by inaccuracy.

With deep occurrence, the main and auxiliary communications are laid in a narrow trench with a depth of 0.3 to 0.75 meters. Inspection and maintenance of pipes in this case is difficult, but they do not interfere with walking around the site and harvest crops from plants. Having determined the way of laying the mains, you can proceed to install them.

Step 1.  Connect to the water tank and ball valve  fine filter. If you plan to install a container with fertilizers, a pump and a controller for automatic drip irrigation - mount them.

Step 2.  Using a corner fitting and a piece of pipe of the appropriate size, bring the line to a height of about 5-10 centimeters above the ground. Install the bracket as a support.

Step 3.Cut slices of polypropylene pipes according to the distance between the taps. Consider also the "seams" between the parts of the trunk and the fittings.

Step 4.  Sequentially install and connect lengths to tee fittings. In this case, maintain the gradient - the end of the main line should be closer to the ground than the beginning. This is necessary for effective drainage of water before the beginning of cold weather.

Step 5.  At the end of the main pipe, install either a plug or ball valve. The latter is preferable, because when you open it, you will be able to quickly drain the water or clean the pipes from accumulated blockages in them.

Option number 1. Droplet tape

First, consider the option with a tape. The thickness of its walls and the step of the location of the holes is chosen depending on which crop is planned to be supplied with moisture.

Table number 3. Step of the arrangement of the holes on the dropping tape, depending on the crops grown.

The sequence of actions is as follows.

Step 1.  To the tees perpendicular to the main line, install the start-connectors with the cranes.

Step 2.  Separate the drop tape into parts equal in length to the length of the beds (with a small margin).

Step 3.  Fix one end of the drop tape in the start-connector.

Step 4.The second end of the drip tape is closed with a plug or fold and bandaged with an insulating tape.

The drip band is not the best fit for areas where birds and rodents are found in many places, which can easily damage its thin walls.

Option number 2. Tube with droppers

In the second case, you will need polypropylene pipes of small diameter (for example, 16 cm for small beds), adjustable dropper with outlets, flexible tubes of 3-5 mm cross section and turbulent posts. One branch can have 1, 2 or 4 outputs, respectively, one dropper can supply 1, 2 or 4 shrubs with moisture.

Step 1.  With the help of soldering or cold welding, connect the branch pipes perpendicular to the pipe to the tee.

Step 2.  Drill holes with a certain step in the extraction pipe. The diameter of the holes should correspond to the diameter of the dropper seal.

Step 3.  Insert the dropper seal into the hole, then the dropper itself. Next, mount the branch, connect to it the appropriate number of flexible tubes with turbulent posts at the end. Then insert them into the ground next to the plants.

Step 4.  Install the plug at the end of the branch pipe.

Step 5.  Repeat the previous two steps with all the holes on the branch pipes.

The final stages of mounting the drip irrigation system are the connection of the tank to the water pipe, its filling with liquid and a peculiar stress test, during which it is necessary to make sure that all the elements of the system are working properly.

For a better understanding of the drip irrigation system, we recommend that you read the following video.

Video - How to make drip irrigation with your own hands

Automation of drip irrigation system

To date, manual management for the drip irrigation system is inappropriate to use - it requires a daily presence on the garden, which can only be provided if you either live there, or you have enough free time to come there in a day.

The simplest version of the system automation is the installation of a specialized microcomputer. It consists of a programmable controller, chipset with memory, LCD-display, control buttons and housing, resistant to moisture and temperature changes. The microcomputer is installed on the central highway and a regular watering program is set in it. Switching on and off is performed by means of solenoid valves replacing conventional ball valves.

But such a system does not take into account the state of the environment, because there is always a risk that plants either do not receive the right amount of moisture, or will receive it in excess. The solution to this problem is the installation of a complex of weather and humidity sensors. Depending on weather and soil moisture, the irrigation program will be adjusted to increase or decrease the volume of water directed to each plant.

Did we answer your question?