Author : Maher Shehadi

A capstone project was designed to apply principles learned in fluid mechanics and other MET courses. The project was done by a team composed of three MET students who designed a mobile irrigation system through an overhanging irrigation boom. The system pumped water through a single 5.3 gal/min (20 liters/min) pump that was powered by a 12-volts DC battery. Water was fed to eight nozzles through PVC plastic tubing that allowed flexible installation and durability. The water exiting the nozzles fed all the area under the feeding rail over a width of 10 feet (3.34 m). The nozzles were installed at a height of 14 inch (35.5 cm) above the ground. The team installed a long rectangular tube stock. The wing of the spray was designed to fold in and out, providing a more compact unit. The mobile irrigation unit was expected to cover 1 acre (4046 m3) of land in approximately 1 hour if it was moving at a speed of 1.25 m/s1.25 m/s. Students performance and project outcomes were assessed against ABET learning outcomes such as: (a) applying engineering science, (b) conduct tests, measurements, calibration and improve processes, (c) system design, (d) team work, (e) problem solving: ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems, and (g) effective communication: ability to communicate effectively.

Keywords: Field Fertilization; Irrigation System; Nozzle Coverage Area; Irrigation Speed; Irrigation Efficiency

Article published in International Journal of Current Engineering and Technology, Vol.9, No.4 (July/Aug 2019)