DRIPPER TECHNICAL TCE

📄 Technical Data Sheet – Irrigation Dripper 

1. Product Description

A dripper, also known as an emitter, is a small-flow device used to deliver controlled amounts of water directly to the plant root zone in drip irrigation systems.

2. Emitter Types

  • Non-Pressure-Compensating (NPC): Flow varies with pressure changes (exponent x ~0.4–0.8) 

  • Pressure-Compensating (PC): Maintains nearly constant flow across a range of pressures (x ≈ 0)

  • Inline Dripper Tube: Emitters molded into drip tubing at set intervals 

3. Technical Specifications

ParameterTypical Values / Range
Flow Rate0.2 – 4.0 L/h 
Nominal Operating Pressure0.5 – 5.0 bar (PC)
Emitter Discharge Exponent (x)0.4–0.8 for NPC; ≈0 for PC
Spacing20 – 100 cm depending on soil & emitter flow
Lateral Length (max)20 mm tube – up to ~331 m for 4 L/h @ 2.5 bar
Tubing Inner Diameter11.4 – 21.0 mm
Wall Thickness0.2 – 1.2 mm

4. Design Features

  • Flow Path Geometry: Turbulent flow through labyrinth channels to resist clogging 

  • Pressure Regulation: PC models include flexible diaphragms for stable flow 

  • Anti-Siphon Valve (optional): Prevents dirt suction when line pressure drops 

  • Self-Cleaning Channels: Short wide passages promote flushing during operation

5. Applications & Soil Considerations

  • Soil Type Effect:

    • Clay: Wide, shallow wetting requiring moderate flow & long durations 

    • Sandy: Deep, narrow wetting needing higher flow or close spacing 

  • Flow & Spacing Design: Flow rate × spacing determines water application rate (mm/h).

  • Emitter Counts: Use flow rate ratings (e.g., 0.5–2 GPH) to size system 

  • Maximum Lateral Length: Defined per tubing specs and desired pressure loss 

6. Installation Guidelines

  1. Use clean, well-filtered water (80–200 mesh filters) to prevent clogging

  2. Maintain operating pressure within rated range

  3. Flush lines before planting

  4. Match emitter spacing & flow to soil and crop needs

  5. Monitor pressure loss and water distribution uniformity

  6. Clean filters backflush regularly

7. Advantages

  • High water-use efficiency (>90%)

  • Precise delivery reduces waste and runoff

  • Modular and scalable design

  • Pressure compensating types offer uniform irrigation even on slopes