Solenoid valves for micro irrigation

Solenoid valves for micro irrigation

Suitable solenoid valves allow small irrigation zones with drippers, micro sprinklers or micro nozzles to be controlled automatically. Depending on the system, the valve is operated by an irrigation controller and automatically opens and closes the water supply to beds, raised beds, pots or greenhouse irrigation.

Micro irrigation often operates with considerably lower flow rates than lawn irrigation using several large pop-up sprinklers. The solenoid valve should therefore be suitable for the planned flow rate and operating pressure. Check the manufacturer's specified pressure range, flow values and required connection size.

Valves for low flow rates

A small irrigation zone may contain only a limited number of individual drippers or micro sprinklers. This can result in a comparatively low total water flow. Not every solenoid valve performs equally well at very low flow rates, so compare the valve specifications with the requirements of your micro irrigation system.

Calculate the total water requirement of all drippers or micro sprinklers operating at the same time. For individual drippers, for example, you can add together their specified flow rates. This makes it easier to choose a suitable solenoid valve for each irrigation zone.

Use filters and pressure regulators

Reliable filtration is particularly important in drip and micro irrigation because the small water passages in drippers and nozzles can be more sensitive to contamination. A suitable filter protects downstream components and helps reduce the risk of blockages within the irrigation system.

Correct water pressure is equally important. Depending on the drippers, micro sprinklers and pipes being used, a pressure regulator may be required. The solenoid valve, filter and pressure regulator should therefore be selected according to the requirements of the connected micro irrigation components.

Control micro irrigation automatically

A dedicated solenoid valve allows micro irrigation to operate independently from other areas of the garden. Lawns with pop-up sprinklers can have their own irrigation zone, while beds and hedges use drip irrigation and smaller planted areas are supplied through micro irrigation.

Depending on the controller, suitable 24 V valves or valves with compatible 9 V latching solenoids can be used. Together with a controller, filter, pressure regulator, micro tubing, micro fittings and drippers, you can build your own automatic micro irrigation system and expand it later as required.