Applications of Drag-Reducing Polymers in Sprinkler Irrigation Systems: Sprinkler Head Performance

The study investigates the effects of polymer additives on sprinkler performance. Experiments were carried out on a mediumpressure sprinkler to determine the effect of polymer additives. Two kinds of polymer additives with several concentrations were used: a low molecular weight polymer, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, and a high molecular weight polymer, polyacrylamide. The results show that with polymer additives the radius of throw and the sprinkler flow rate increase. The jet is slightly affected. Generally, polyacrylamide shows better results than sodium carboxymethylcellulose.