Tune up your irrigation system,
summer is on the way!
Give yourself some extra time before starting to irrigate this spring
and take a good look at your irrigation equipment. All components of your
system need maintenance and some may require repair or replacing. Your
user's manual should help you decide on the regular maintenance your equipment
requires.
Here are a few general tips for checking and maintaining your irrigation
system.
Sprinklers
Big guns
- Check nozzle for wear
- Use machinist's calipers to check ring nozzle for appropriate diameter
- Replace ring if worn
- Monitor rotation speed of gun, bearings may be worn and need replacing
Impact sprinklers
- Check nozzles for wear
- Replace dented or worn brass nozzles
- Replace cracked, chipped or worn plastic nozzles
- Check rotation of each sprinkler by swinging the impact arm 10cm to
the right and releasing. The sprinkler head should freely and smoothly
move several centimeters. Repeat this test and ensure that the amount
of rotation is consistent each time the sprinkler head is released.
If the sprinkler is not consistent then replace the sprinkler head.
Travelers
As well as regular lubrication and fluids
- Apply multipurpose grease to inlet spindle thrust washer, wheel bearings,
turntable bearing ring and gun cart wheel bearings
- Apply oil to Chains (except drum) and to Gearbox
Pumps
- Inspect all system piping connections for leaks and misalignment
- If stress on the pump case is suspected, adjust pipe supports to correct.
For flange connections, ensure that there is no separation or shifting
of mating flanges. Adjust pipe supports until flanges mate without force
- Check foundation, ensure that it is sound and all securing bolts or
lags are secure
- Complete all lubrications recommended in your operation and maintenance
manual
- Inspect pump packing gland or mechanical seal for possible replacement.
Examine shaft sleeve (if present) for wear and replace if necessary.
- Inspect bearings for signs of wear. Repack or replace as required.
- Inspect valves and ensure that they are all fully operational and
not stuck
- Check pump impeller for proper clearance
- Inspect pump impeller, housing and seal chamber for signs of excessive
wear or corrosion
- Ensure the hand primer is operating properly. Disassemble and inspect
the diaphragm for excessive wear or cracks. Replace if necessary
**Follow the maintenance schedule as laid out in your equipment manual.
