Agriculture and Agribusiness

Centre Pivot and Sprinkler Irrigation Operation

A centre pivot applies water at a rate that increases along its length, so the outer span delivers most of the water in the shortest time and is where runoff, wheel rutting and under application all begin. This course works from that geometry. Delegates work through pivot configuration, span layout, and the sprinkler package selection that matches application rate to soil intake rate. Pressure regulation and nozzle sizing follow. Application depth, speed setting and the percentage timer are covered so operators can convert a required depth into a machine setting. Uniformity testing is addressed through catch can evaluation and the coefficient of uniformity. End guns and corner arms are covered with their uniformity penalties. Runoff and soil intake are addressed directly, including the tillage and residue practices that let a pivot apply what it should. Mechanical operation follows: drive trains, alignment, tyres and the safety systems that stop a misaligned machine. Electrical and lightning protection are covered. The course closes on maintenance schedules and on evaluating a poorly performing machine.