Plastic Impact sprinklers offer controllable irrigation rate to wide range of field crops including vegetables, animal feeds and maize plantations.
Buy top performance plastic impact sprinklers at Aqua Hub LTD. We deliver and offer installation support for sprinkler systems.
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Plastic Impact Sprinkler Specifications
- Sizes available – ½, ¾ and 1 inch
- Ideal pressure rating – 1.5 – 6 bars. varies with the sprinkler size.
- UV treated plastic body with stainless stee springs and pivot pins.
- 0-360 rotation but depends on the model.
Why Plastic Impact Sprinkler features are important
The inlet size determines how much water can be discharged by the sprinkler head. It is also good to ensure the connection pipe matches the size of the sprinkler inlet.
Spray radius determines how many sprinklers you need for your farm.
Pressure impacts the performance of sprinklers. If pressure too low, the impact mechanism may not rotate; too high and plastic may fail or leak.
What Is an Plastic Impact Sprinkler?
An impact sprinkler is a type of overhead sprinkler that uses water pressure to make a rotating arm fling water outward, creating a water spray. The term “impact” comes from the arm snapping back into position after each spray, which produces that distinctive clicking sound.
Impact Sprinklers are commonly available in ½, ¾ and 1-inch sizes in Kenya.
Why Buy Plastic Impact Sprinklers?
Here are the main reasons plastic impact sprinklers are becoming popular options for irrigation in Kenya.
- Lower Upfront Cost
Plastic impact sprinklers cost less compared to metallic sprinklers and rain guns. - Lightweight and Easier to Handle
Because of their light weight, plastic sprinklers are easier to install, move, and adjust. - Reliable for Numerous agricultural Water Needs
Small farms, kitchen gardens, or pasture lands often don’t need the very large throw of big metal rain guns. A plastic sprinkler with say 15–20 m radius, 1–6 bar pressure is good enough in many cases. - Local Availability and Variety
Wide range of options including ½″, ¾″, 1″ with different spray radius, flow rates are available in Kenya. - Relatively Simple Maintenance
Plastic heads, fewer heavy metal components, less risk of corrosion. Small parts like springs or pivot pins can be replaced, and plastic is more forgiving of knocks. Also, plastic sprinklers are generally chemical‐resistant.
Challenges & Limitations of Plastic Impact Sprinklers
While plastic impact sprinklers are promising, there are trade‐offs.
Mechanical Damage or Wear
As time goes by, plastic bodies can start to lose their strength and become brittle, leading to cracks in joints or thinner sections. They just can’t take a beating like their sturdy metal counterparts.
Water Pressure and Flow Limitations
Plastic impact sprinklers often need a specific minimum pressure to work properly (like keeping the head rotating). If the pressure is too low, the arm might get stuck or not rotate well; if it’s too high, it could put stress on the weaker plastic parts. Plus, they might not provide the same maximum flow or throw distance as metal ones.
Efficiency & Water Loss Risks
Overhead sprinklers, in general, tend to lose water through evaporation, drift (thanks to the wind), and uneven distribution. Plastic impact sprinklers, especially those that produce larger spray droplets, can make these losses even worse. In windy or hot weather, a lot of the spray can drift away or evaporate before it even hits the soil. These problems can lead to reduced efficiency and higher water costs.
Maintenance Challenges
While they might be simpler in some respects, plastic sprinklers still have moving parts (like springs, pivot pins, and nozzles) that can get clogged with sediment or lose their tension. To keep them running smoothly, you’ll need to ensure a clean water supply, filter out debris, and do some periodic lubrication or part replacements. Otherwise, their performance will take a hit.
Less durable compared to metallic sprinklers
Even with proper care, plastic models typically don’t last as long as high-quality metal ones. Many suppliers point out that their useful lifespans are generally shorter.
How to Use Impact Sprinklers: Best Practices
To really make the most of these tools, farmers should blend smart purchasing with savvy usage. Here are some best practices to consider:
Choose the Right Sprinkler for Your Crop & Growth Stage
For crops that are particularly sensitive to leaf wetness like tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes, overhead sprinklers can pose a higher risk for fungal diseases. It’s best to use them when the plants are more mature or opt for drip irrigation during the seedling and leafy stages.
Filter Your Water
Installing a filter upstream can help eliminate grit and sediment that might clog nozzles, obstruct pivots, or wear out parts. A lot of issues with impact sprinklers stem from dirty water.
Regulate Pressure
Make sure you’re using a pump or gravity system that provides the right pressure. If it’s too low, the sprinkler head won’t rotate; if it’s too high, plastic components can wear out quickly or even break. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Use Multiple Smaller Sprinklers Instead of One Large One
When Needed Rather than overloading a single sprinkler, spacing out several smaller ones can enhance uniformity, minimize water loss, and allow for targeted watering in specific areas.
Timing and Frequency
Water during the cooler parts of the day like morning or evening to cut down on evaporation. Depending on your soil type, climate, and crop, you might need to water up to 2–3 times a week, or even more during dry spells.
Maintenance Routine
- Regularly check for cracks and leaks.
- Clean the nozzles.
- Inspect pivot pins and springs; replace any worn-out parts.
- Examine seals and washers at joints.
Protect Against Physical Damage
Make sure your sprinklers are securely installed; keep them away from areas where they might get stepped on or hit by farm machinery
Plan Your Layout Carefully
Ensure even coverage by avoiding excessive overlap which wastes water or gaps which can create dry spots. Consider the shape of the field, any obstructions, and the direction of the wind.
