Irrigation refers to the artificial application of water in agricultural areas and gardens. Studies show that even Ancient Egyptians have been utilising irrigation systems to assist in farming, especially when there is not enough rainfall to support crop planting.
The key to an effective irrigation system is to keep the water close to where it is needed. Finding the right type of irrigation pump is important for a successful irrigation system.
Displacement Pumps
As the name suggests, this type of pump pushes the water out by displacement. Piston pumps, rotary pumps, roller tubes, and diaphragm pumps are all types of displacement pumps. A good example of a piston displacement pump is the old-fashioned hand pump, which is operated by pushing a long lever handle up and down. Displacement pumps are often used to create high pressure and to move thick liquids such as oil and fertiliser.
Centrifugal Pumps
Most irrigation pumps fall into this category. Centrifugal pumps use an impeller to spin water rapidly in a chamber, casing, or housing. An impeller is the rotating component of a centrifugal pump. The spinning action moves the water outward from the centre of the rotation.
End Suction Centrifugal Pumps
This is the most common type of pump, and it is designed to force the water out instead of forcing the water in. They are perfect for pumping water from any source where the water level is higher than the pump.
Floating Pumps
A floating pump, also called a submersible pump, is a turbine pump that is connected to the bottom of a float. The pump hangs below the float while the float is anchored in a lake, river, or pond.
Turbines and Jet Pumps
A turbine pump is a centrifugal pump that is mounted underwater and attached by a shaft to a motor mounted above ground. Turbine pumps are mainly used for larger pump applications such as irrigation systems. Jet pumps, on the other hand, are mounted above ground; they lift the water out of the ground through a suction pipe. They are usually used to draw water from wells into residences.
Booster Pumps
While most pumps take water from a standing source and move it to another location, a booster pump increases the pressure of water that is already on its way somewhere.
Check out our list of the top irrigation system experts in Australia. They can surely help you with your irrigation needs, and you can ask them for advice on which type of irrigation pump is best for your lawn or garden.