Analytical model for predicting activation pressure and flow rate of pressure-compensating inline drip emitters and its use in low-pressure emitter design

Abstract Drip irrigation has the potential to help farmers increase crop production with lower on-farm water consumption than flood or sprinkler irrigation; yet, its high costs keep it out of reach for many smallholder farmers, who make up about 20 $$\%$$ % world’s population. Pressure-compensating (PC) drip emitters enable uniform delivery all crops in a field by regulating emitter flow rate, but typically require pumping pressures, contributing capital and operating pump power system. Redesigning PC pressure operation could more energy-efficient affordable systems. However, current lack published design theory hinders development desired hydraulic performance. To address this gap, we present an analytical, parametric model behavior (i.e., rate versus curve) inline before flow-regulating regime. We combine validated prototyping method demonstrate utility target activation pressures rates, sample that achieves 38 commercial similar rates. The proposed sheds light on relationships between geometry It may inform R&D efforts industry lead improved designs low helping reduce system access among farmers.