Center‐Pivot End Gun Irrigation Cost Analysis

Abstract

The analysis quantified the energy required to deliver pressure head for the area irrigated by an end gun. The energy actually used to apply water to the corner while the end gun was on and the extra energy used while the end gun was off were estimated. With the end gun off there is increased application of water under the lateral. Energy use associated with this increased application was estimated. The pressure head cost ratio (with end gun/without end gun) was in direct proportion to the capacity ratio (end gun/total system). The values ranged from a cost ratio of 1.73 for a capacity ratio of 0.05 to 3.69 for a capacity ratio of 0.20. Speed modification and flow‐pressure regulation with the end gun off were also considered. Energy reduction was not significant for these modifications.