Centre Pivot verse Drip Irrigation

Why centre pivot irrigation is a better investment

Centre pivot irrigation systems are the leading method of crop irrigation in many agricultural zones across the world.

Field proven centre pivot systems are steadily replacing, traditional flood irrigation and other types of sprinklers, and also subsurface drip irrigation in some instances.

A great number of conversions are being made to offset farm labour shortages,but, as an added benefit, centre pivots are also highly efficient with up to 95% efficiency in terms of application uniformity.

Mechanical move irrigation has been at the leading edge of farming technology. This makes it a better management tool increasing efficiency, so growers can stay competitive.

Centre Pivot and Drip Irrigation Comparison

Applying the correct amount of water at the right time is crucial to achieving a good yield, but it's also important to apply it uniformly and at precisely the right amount.

The cost-saving, efficient and long lasting solution

Fully automated

State-of-the-art controls for precise irrigation management and scheduling
Accurate water, chemical and fertiliser usage reports
Remote control and monitoring capability via internet and cell phone

Efficient

90-95% efficiency in varied climates and all soils
Even water distribution
Reduced deep percolation and runoff of chemicals
Uniformity little affected by wind when drops
Irrigates slopes up to 30%
No salt build up
Low per acre investment cost

Reliable

20+ year operation with regular maintenance
High-quality components

Eco-friendly

95% recycleable components
Simple removal from fields
Resale capability

Versatile

Multiple crops under one circle
Crop rotation - no need to change emitter spacing for different crops

Why Choose a Centre Pivot?

Higher return on investment

The long life of a pivot or lateral system will save you money year after year. You’ll use less water, reducing your energy costs. A Zimmatic pivot or lateral system also applies chemicals and fertilizers evenly, accurately and inexpensively. All this adds up to consistently higher yields.

Better return on investment

A pivot or lateral system costs less per acre (hectare) to install. For example, a drip system costs over 200% more than a pivot system to install on 125 acres (50 hectares).On larger fields, the cost difference is even greater.

Pivot systems also retain a high resale value, whereas drip systems cannot be resold.

Fewer maintenance hassles and labour costs

Compared to a drip system, maintenance is extremely simple for pivot and lateral systems. There is no emitter clogging by small contaminants or lime/calcium deposits, and no filter maintenance – it requires only a screened intake.

Rodents, roots and cultivation equipment won’t damage a center pivot system. Even algae and chemicals aren’t issues. Drip systems need to be monitored regularly because problems maybe hard to pinpoint, arise quickly, and prove difficult to fix. The potential of salt buildup at the perimeter of wetted area is another concern. When crops draw water up into the root zone, the water evaporates, leaving salt around the roots – which can interfere with the ability to absorb water.

More benefits for the grower and the environment

A pivot/lateral system can be monitored and controlled remotely. A grower can quickly apply water after seeding and as often as needed after that. It’s also easier on the field. If the equipment needs to be removed or replaced, it won’t damage the field.

Not to mention the fact that pivot systems are nearly 95% recyclable.