Multioutlet Hydrants in Mediterranean Pressurized Irrigation Networks: Operation Problems and Hydraulic Characterization

Multioutlet hydrants as joint network infrastructure remain briefly addressed in the literature. Studies have always been limited to individual treatment of hydraulic components but not a whole element. This study presents main problems field multioutlet within for pressure irrigation networks Mediterranean agriculture. First, with interviews was carried out 30 water users associations (WUAs) between 2010 and 2018. Following this study, laboratory test methodology proposed characterize type hydrant. Subsequently, four tests were performed on 12 different common configurations found networks: (i) head losses produced, (ii) global measurement precision hydrant, (iii) blockage analysis meters vertical orientation, (iv) hydrant behavior response transients. The show that horizontal configuration measuring elements fewer than ten outlets suitable dimensioning improve element maneuverability, instrument metrology, emission uniformity. Finally, importance adequate design, dimensioning, maintenance devices is evidenced key point management collective networks.