vandenbusscheirrigation - Tumblr blog

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Drip Irrigation for Agriculture

Drip irrigation systems are quickly becoming the top choice for thousands of farmers in Ontario due to their precision, resource efficiency, and ease of system adaptability. These systems work by delivering water and nutrients directly to the root zone of the plants, ensuring that every drop counts. In a world where water scarcity is a growing concern, drip irrigation provides a sustainable solution that can boost crop health and yield.

Netafim DripNet PC – Pressure Compensating Drip Irrigation

Netafim, a company renowned for its commitment to sustainable agriculture, is at the forefront of the drip irrigation industry.  Netafim offers a wide range of different drip lines, all offering reliable, robust benefits related to your application. Likely the most popular choice tends to be DripNet PC, one that offers a wide array of benefits for modern agriculture. Its primary strength lies in being a dependable irrigation solution for challenging terrains.

  Netafim DripNet PC - Thinwall Dripperline (LWD)

Netafim DripNet PC Thinwall Dripline showcases remarkable innovation in agricultural irrigation. Its lightweight and flexible design makes this dripper line an excellent choice for irrigating seasonal fields and other applications that demand flexibility. Let's explore the standout features of DripNet PC

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Irrigation Start-up Best Practices - Expert Recommendations

Spring is near, which means it’s almost time to start thinking about charging up your irrigation system. The colder winter months can take a heavy toll on an irrigation system. It’s critical to perform routine start-up maintenance of your system components before the heavy watering season begins. De-winterizing your irrigation in the spring is just as important as winterizing! Whether you’re running a commercial, agricultural, golf, or residential irrigation system, the efficiency and performance depends on starting up your system with care. Protect your irrigation investment by following these expert recommendations.

When to Start Up Your Irrigation System

Timing your irrigation start-up can be a gamble. If you open it up too soon, you run the risk of freezing the pipes you worked so hard to protect over the winter. This is an expensive mistake. If you wait too long, however, you shorten the window of time available to address any repairs or replacements your system requires for the start of a new season, putting your landscape at risk.       

Many experts recommend waiting until the first full week without any freezing temperatures. Depending on your geography, this could fall anywhere within a wide spectrum of March through May. A general rule of thumb is to wait until nighttime temperatures remain above 0 degrees Celsius, and that the soil has achieved thawing to a depth of at least 12 inches. It is generally safer to turn on a system with a backflow preventer earlier than a system that utilizes pumps, as the latter is more susceptible to harm from an unexpected freeze. readmore....

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Top 8 Tips for Winterizing Your Golf Course Irrigation System

Why Winterize?

Winterization is the process of eliminating all water from an irrigation system to prevent the potential damage of any of its components. In cold climates where freezing is inevitable, winterizing is critical. Water expands in volume approximately 9% as it transitions from liquid to solid, resulting in ruptured equipment within a closed system. However, with proper winterizing of your golf course irrigation system, you’ll be able to relax and keep warm over the cold months, knowing your equipment will be prepared to perform again in the spring. The time invested now in winterizing your system will pay off dividends when you next need it.

Preparing to winterize a golf course irrigation system can feel overwhelming; the system covers a broad area, and there are many components requiring attention. Furthermore, an average golf course network of pipes can hold 22,000 to 27,000 gallons of water - a significant volume to drain! Golf course operators and commercial landscape contractors are accustomed to irrigation maintenance, however, and winterization is one vital component of that routine. You can easily develop a winterization procedure by utilizing the 8 tips itemized below.

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Winterizing Your Farm Irrigation System - A Handy Checklist

The Purpose of Winterizing Farm Irrigation Systems

You may be done with harvesting the crops this season, but it’s not time to rest just yet. Left unprotected, your irrigation equipment will remain exposed to the risk of damage by the ice that forms within it. If your system is not blown out properly, you might end up with cracked or burst pipes, malfunctioning irrigation equipment and costly repair bills. As the temperature begins to drop, it’s time to protect your commercial irrigation system. This one final seasonal project will ensure that your equipment will be ready to serve you again in the spring.

Whether you have a farm, fruit orchard, or vineyard, the same irrigation winterizing principles apply; you must remove excess water to prevent damage caused by ice. The blow-out method forces high-pressure air through all the pipes and equipment to remove remaining water. While similar to the steps required for winterizing a commercial or landscape irrigation system [insert link to previous blog here], there are additional components to an agricultural irrigation system that require attention. Blowing out this equipment requires a large-capacity air compressor. We recommend a 25-50 HP diesel compressor with 185 CFM and 175 max PSI. 

Below is a checklist of agricultural irrigation equipment that will require winterizing maintenance. https://vandenbussche.com/article/winterizing-your-farm-irrigation-system-a-handy-checklist

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

A Landscape Contractor's Guide to Winterization

Goal of Winterizing Irrigation Systems

The chill autumn air is upon us, which means that now is the time to winterize your irrigation systems! Your sprinkler system is an investment that requires seasonal maintenance. Properly winterizing your irrigation system is critical to preventing damaged pipes and backflow devices. 

Ruptured pipes and backflow devices can result in very costly repairs. When water freezes and expands within an irrigation system, it can cause damage. The overall goal of winterizing is to get all the water out of the irrigation system to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. The damage can take place in any component of the system:  sprinklers, filters, fittings, pipe, pump casings, or backflows. All components are susceptible to cracking, resulting in a leaky irrigation system and a whole lot of money wasted read more

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Top 8 Tips for Winterizing the Irrigation System on a Golf Course

The Importance of Winterization

Winterization is the essential process of removing all water from an irrigation system to prevent potential damage to its components. This becomes especially crucial in cold climates where freezing is inevitable.

Water undergoes a 9% expansion in volume when it freezes, which can lead to damage within a closed irrigation system.

Proper winterization of your golf course irrigation system ensures peace of mind during the cold months, knowing that your equipment will be ready for action come spring. The time and effort invested in winterizing your system will yield significant benefits when you need it next.

Preparing for Winterization

Winterizing a golf course irrigation system may seem daunting due to its extensive coverage and numerous components. Typically, these systems hold a substantial amount of water, ranging from 22,000 to 27,000 gallons.

Golf course operators and commercial landscape contractors are familiar with irrigation maintenance, and winterization is a vital part of their routine.

To simplify the process, consider the following 8 tips.

Tip 1: Develop a Plan

Create a written winterization plan, which will serve as a valuable reference for future years. Make notes about what works and what doesn't, and update it annually.

Keep a map of the golf course and its irrigation system readily accessible. Start planning well in advance of the first freeze, ensuring that the air temperature is above freezing when clearing the pipes.

Tip 2: Do Your Prep Work

For a golf course irrigation system, the blow-out method is necessary. This involves using high-pressure air to force out remaining water.

In the days leading up to the blow-out, mark the locations of couplers, drains, and isolation or vacuum valves.

Maintain the area around sprinkler heads and valves to make them easy to locate on the blow-out day.

Identify a suitable location to connect a compressor to the network, ideally at a high elevation.

Open drains using compressed air two days before winterizing and ensure vacuum valves are operational. Attach quick coupler keys to facilitate air circulation.

Tip 3: Stock Up on Supplies

Ensure you have the necessary fittings for your system, including bull hose fittings for 2-inch air compressor lines.

Keep enough fuel on hand to refill your compressor and place it conveniently for refueling during the blow-out.

Book your air compressor rental early, as they tend to be in high demand during winterization season.

Tip 4: Select the Right Air Compressor

Understanding air compressor settings is vital for a successful blow-out. Cubic feet per minute (CFM) indicates the air volume the compressor can push.

Typically, aim for double the CFM compared to the flow rate (Gallons Per Minute, or GPM) of the irrigation system. This ensures efficient blow-out.

Compressors come in different sizes (e.g., 30, 70, 130, or 185 CFM), and the choice depends on your system's capacity and availability.

Tip 5: Know Your Air Compressor

Prioritize safety for yourself and the system. Use a long hose connection to dissipate heat, a 2-inch minimum connection, and connect to steel piping (avoid PVC, as it may melt).

Utilize a pressure regulator set to the factory recommended pressure, typically 40-60 psi, equipped with safety features such as a pressure relief valve, flow regulating control valve, pressure gauges, and an air and oil separator.

Tip 6: Set Up for the Blow-Out Procedure

Assemble a team of 3-5 crew members for the blow-out, with specific roles assigned.

Prioritize higher elevation irrigation zones to reduce the risk of water returning to those areas.

Monitor pressure within the lines actively being blown out and perform multiple short cycles to ensure all trapped water is removed.

Tip 7: Finish the Blow-Out

Confirm that all zones are clear by observing the sprinklers, which should appear as a fog when the section is clear.

Close the valves of each zone, shut down the compressor, and allow low elevation drain valves to remain open overnight for water drainage.

Disconnect the compressor once all pressure is relieved.

Tip 8: Double Check Your Work

On the following day, review your work and clear any residual water. Some zones may require fewer cycles on the second day.

Reopen any closed valves, and ensure all air relief valves are open.

If you have any questions about winterizing your golf course irrigation system, our experienced team at Vanden Bussche is here to assist you. Contact us online or visit the nearest Vanden Bussche location for expert guidance on golf course irrigation system design and installation.

Original Source: https://vandenbussche.com/article/top-8-tips-for-winterizing-your-golf-course-irrigation-system

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Irrigation Automation and Controls

Understanding Automation in Irrigation

Automatic irrigation employs devices like controls and sensors to regulate water flow, adjusting flow rates without human intervention. It finds applications in various sectors, including:

Agriculture

Commercial and Residential Landscaping

Golf Courses

Campuses

HOAs

And more

Functioning of Automatic Irrigation Systems

An automatic irrigation system comprises sensors that manage critical functions, such as starting, stopping, and controlling water flow. The control module, connected to buried valves, diverts water from the primary source into different zones based on programmed settings.

Key Components of Automation Systems

Major components of automated irrigation systems include:

Valve system: The primary valve connects to the water supply, controlled by timers to manage water release.

Underground piping: Typically made of polyurethane or PVC, these pipes connect to the main water source, ensuring even water distribution.

Sprinkler heads: These devices distribute water and come in various types like spray heads, rotor heads, bubblers, and emitters.

Sensors and controllers: Smart technology aids in optimizing water usage through programmable controllers and weather and soil sensors.

Vanden Bussche Irrigation's Role

Vanden Bussche Irrigation offers automatic irrigation supplies, including weather-based and soil-based controllers. They are committed to education and training while providing water-efficient products.

Automated Drip Irrigation

Automated drip irrigation systems minimize manual effort by using timers, sensors, and controllers to deliver moisture directly to roots or specific areas. Benefits include precise watering and reduced water and fertilizer use.

Importance of Automated Irrigation Systems

Automated systems ensure uniform watering, prevent overwatering or underwatering, and save labor costs. They protect crops, plants, and landscapes while conserving water.

Sensors in Smart Irrigation Systems

Smart irrigation systems employ sensors to monitor soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and ambient conditions. These sensors facilitate control through mobile apps.

Hunter and Rain Bird Controllers

Hunter and Rain Bird controllers are designed for efficient water management. They adjust schedules based on weather conditions and incorporate flow-sensing devices for leak detection.

Benefits of Automated Irrigation Systems

Automated systems enhance plant health, reduce labor, and conserve water, making them environmentally and economically advantageous.

Smart Irrigation Controllers

Smart controllers use data on soil conditions, evaporation, weather, and plant water absorption to adjust irrigation schedules intelligently.

Weather-Based Irrigation Controllers

Evapotranspiration (ET) controllers, a type of weather-based controller, factor in evaporation, transpiration, and meteorological data to determine irrigation schedules.

Soil-Moisture Controllers

Soil moisture sensors complement automated irrigation by measuring moisture levels in the soil, offering precise control.

Smart Irrigation Controllers Save Water and Money

Smart irrigation controllers conserve water, track flow rates, and simplify maintenance, making them a recommended choice.

Contact Vanden Bussche Irrigation

To enhance irrigation efficiency through automation and controls, you can contact Vanden Bussche Irrigation online for consultations.

Read More: https://vandenbussche.com/article/automation-and-controls-for-irrigation

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Planning, Design, and Installation of Sprinkler Systems

Overview of Sprinkler Irrigation Offered by Trusted Ontario Experts:

In Ontario, sprinkler irrigation systems are highly esteemed for their abilities, including consistent water distribution, efficient water usage, and soil erosion prevention.

These systems find extensive use in various settings, such as farms, orchards, vineyards, commercial properties, and expansive land areas.

Their versatility in accommodating diverse soil types and crops, coupled with low maintenance requirements and programmable functionalities, positions them as the preferred choice.

Insights from Vanden Bussche Irrigation:

Vanden Bussche Irrigation, composed of irrigation and water management (IWM) specialists, offers comprehensive insight into sprinkler irrigation systems.

They delve into fundamental aspects related to planning, designing, and installing these irrigation systems.

Guide to Embracing Sprinkler Irrigation:

Crafting a suitable sprinkler irrigation system involves considering critical factors like crop variety, soil quality, water sources, coverage requirements, terrain characteristics, and local climate conditions.

Key Components of Sprinkler Systems:

A typical sprinkler system includes the following components:

A pumping unit responsible for extracting water from the source and channeling it into the pipe network.

Pipes that distribute the water to the sprinkler heads.

Sprinklers that facilitate even and controllable water dispersal.

Various accompanying accessories like valves, couplers, risers, pressure regulators, timers, and more.

Planning and Design Considerations:

Achieving uniform moisture distribution for each crop zone entails strategically placing multiple sprinklers in an overlapping configuration.

Various factors influence sprinkler placement and moisture dispersion patterns, including crop type, spacing, water quality, flow rate, wind conditions, and soil absorption rates.

The application rate, or the rate at which water is applied to crops, depends on factors such as sprinkler distance, nozzle size, and operational pressure.

Further Design Aspects:

Drop size, a crucial factor related to soil and crop characteristics, is controlled by the nozzle type and operating pressure.

Sprinkler irrigation offers diverse system types, including hand-move, side-roll, linear move, center pivot, traveling gun, stationary sprinkler systems, and more.

Specialized systems, such as low-volume sprinkler systems with misters and foggers, and sub-surface rotor systems with concealed pop-up sprinklers, provide additional options.

Expert Services from Vanden Bussche Irrigation:

Vanden Bussche Irrigation specializes in the planning, design, and installation of various irrigation systems.

Certified irrigation experts offer tailor-made solutions based on property assessments, catering to agricultural farms, commercial properties, and orchards in Ontario.

Renowned as national leaders in comprehensive irrigation solutions for agricultural, commercial, and golf sectors, they provide an extensive array of top-tier products.

Getting in Touch:

If you have irrigation needs, don't hesitate to contact Vanden Bussche Irrigation today.

You can reach out to their conveniently situated offices in Ontario or establish a connection with them online.

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Why Golf Course Irrigation Is So Important

Irrigation Systems for Golf Courses Create Lasting Beauty 

Golf courses are places of serene beauty, a field of uninterrupted green space enjoyed by both golfers and passersby. Maintaining the lush turf is one reason to pay attention to the irrigation system. However, other factors include the impact of turf quality, terrain, and water features on each shot the golfer takes. These factors are as significant on a course built for recreation as one designed for championship-level training for 18 holes. 

The pumping stations, weather stations, water quality, and water distribution all play a part, especially if the golf course manager or owner operates on a limited budget. Vanden Bussche Irrigation has knowledgeable Irrigation and Water Management (IWM) pros to offer you insight. We are happy to help you maintain an efficient golf course irrigation system.  https://vandenbussche.com/article/why-golf-course-irrigation-is-so-important

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Winterizing Your Farm Irrigation System - A Handy Checklist

The Purpose of Winterizing Farm Irrigation Systems

You may be done with harvesting the crops this season, but it’s not time to rest just yet. Left unprotected, your irrigation equipment will remain exposed to the risk of damage by the ice that forms within it. If your system is not blown out properly, you might end up with cracked or burst pipes, malfunctioning irrigation equipment and costly repair bills. As the temperature begins to drop, it’s time to protect your commercial irrigation system. This one final seasonal project will ensure that your equipment will be ready to serve you again in the spring.

Whether you have a farm, fruit orchard, or vineyard, the same irrigation winterizing principles apply; you must remove excess water to prevent damage caused by ice. The blow-out method forces high-pressure air through all the pipes and equipment to remove remaining water. While similar to the steps required for winterizing a commercial or landscape irrigation system [insert link to previous blog here], there are additional components to an agricultural irrigation system that require attention. Blowing out this equipment requires a large-capacity air compressor. We recommend a 25-50 HP diesel compressor with 185 CFM and 175 max PSI. 

Below is a checklist of agricultural irrigation equipment that will require winterizing maintenance.

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

A Landscape Contractor's Guide to Winterization

Goal of Winterizing Irrigation Systems

The chill autumn air is upon us, which means that now is the time to winterize your irrigation systems! Your sprinkler system is an investment that requires seasonal maintenance. Properly winterizing your irrigation system is critical to preventing damaged pipes and backflow devices. 

Ruptured pipes and backflow devices can result in very costly repairs. When water freezes and expands within an irrigation system, it can cause damage. The overall goal of winterizing is to get all the water out of the irrigation system to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. The damage can take place in any component of the system:  sprinklers, filters, fittings, pipe, pump casings, or backflows. All components are susceptible to cracking, resulting in a leaky irrigation system and a whole lot of money wasted.  

Winterizing an irrigation system correctly, will save you time and money. Not only is it critical to winterize irrigation equipment prior to freezing season, but it’s also an ideal time to perform preventative maintenance and repairs on your system, once all the water has been removed.

Understanding the Frost Line and Its Importance 

Here in Southern Ontario, a buried depth of 3 feet is generally a safe distance from the surface to protect your pipes from freezing. However, often pipes are not buried that deep, as deeper trenches can add expense to irrigation installation. If your pipes are buried above that 3 foot threshold and you don’t perform a timely, successful blow out of your irrigation system, you may find significant damage when you go to start up your system in the spring.  

Key Considerations for Winterizing Irrigation Systems

[vandenbusscheirrigation]

Automation and Controls for Irrigation

What Is Automation in Irrigation?

“When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.” – Benjamin Franklin

Automatic irrigation uses devices, such as controls and sensors, to turn water flow on and off and adjust the flow rate without owner or operator intervention. There are numerous applications across multiple industries and property types, including:

Agriculture

Commercial and Residential Landscaping

Golf Courses

Campuses

HOAs

And many more

Vanden Bussche Irrigation offers automatic irrigation supplies,