Design and simulation of a drip irrigation system for closely spaced crops.

Abstract

The introduction of drip irrigation systems that can water closely spaced crops is a great improvement in Uganda's agricultural sector; this is as a result of continued wastage of farmers' cultivable land as a result of use of the existing drip irrigation systems. Due to its tropical location, Uganda is endowed with a variety of grains and vegetables yet their production keeps on reducing and fluctuating due to farmers relying on. rainfall which is seasonal, inadequate and not uniformly distributed. Solanum Aethiopicum (Nakati) is the most important vegetable to the people of central Uganda. Nakati is the most abundant leafy vegetable found in Kampala markets? with a relatively higher and stable market price in comparison with other vegetable species. Farmers reported that Nakati remains stunted during prolonged drought and re-grows fairly well when soil moisture becomes available. To aid in the design, climatic data (Rainfall, Temperature, Relative humidity, Sunshine and win speed) was collected. Soil and water tests were also carried out to Obtain the suitability of the soil and water for. the crop. A topographical survey using a Global Satellite device (GPS) was also carried out to determine the topographical data of the plot, proximity and availability of resources relevant to the design. Different software such as Microsoft Excel, CROPWAT 8.0 and CLIMAT 2.0, IRRIGATE PLUS software were used to analyze the data and AutoCAD 2013 software to generate the design drawings. Important results for the design of the drip system with porous pipes include; system capacity of 193.103LPM, crop water need of 3.59mm/day, total operating head of 10.62 m. Pump specification; DC SOP water Pump with a maximum head of 20.785 m and power. of 5.27hp. Furthermore, the design project quotation of total 5,600,000 is included to assess the feasibility of farmers adopting the technology, In conclusion, the design project is very possible and economically viable therefore I strongly urge farmers to take it up.