Irrigation systems play an important role in modern farming by ensuring consistent and reliable water supply,  especially in areas with irregular rainfall. By maintaining optimal soil moisture, these systems help farmers keep crops healthy and fields productive.

Among the other components of irrigation systems like pipes, sprinkler heads, etc, irrigation pumps are the most important. They help in managing water flow and distribution. 

These pumps, powered by electricity, diesel, or gasoline, control water flow and pressure, which in turn minimizes waste and supports eco-friendly farming practices.

With technological advancements, irrigation pumps can be tailored to specific crop needs. In this article, we’ll explore different types of irrigation pumps and the factors to consider when choosing the right one for your irrigation purposes.

Benefits Of Irrigation Water Pumps

1)- Efficient Water Management

Irrigation pumps use advanced technologies such as remote monitoring and automation systems that increase the water flow and pressure. 

These pumps provide the needed water to crops and monitor their performance.  They convey sewage and effluent for purification in sewage treatment plants and protect natural ecosystems.

2)- Maximise Crop Yields

Irrigation pumps draw water from natural resources and distribute it directly to the agricultural fields, ensuring the optimal soil moisture level for plant growth and maximising crop yields.

By integrating effective water conservation techniques in agriculture, such as precision and drip irrigation, farmers can enhance crop yields and minimize water wastage.

3)- Reduce Labour Cost

Using a smart irrigation pump reduces labour costs by eliminating the need for manual irrigation, making farming operations more cost-effective and efficient.

4)- Environmental Protection

Modern irrigation pumps are solar-powered and other energy-based that depend on fossil fuels, promoting environmental sustainability & protection.

Types Of Irrigation Pumps

1)- Centrifugal Pumps

Centrifugal pumps are the most common type of irrigation pump. They are versatile and available in different shapes and sizes. They can be installed underground or above the surface.

The fluid in centrifugal irrigation pumps enters the casing and impeller and moves between the blades. The rotating motion pushes the water outward, creating pressure that forces it through pipes to the irrigation system.

Applications:

• Used to supply water for irrigation purposes in the agriculture industry. 
• Used to pump water to animals in various locations.
• Supplies water to residential and commercial places.
• Used in wastewater treatment plants
• Used in power stations and gas and oil sectors to remove dirt and slurry.

Advantages:

• Provides the smooth flow of fluid. 
• No leakage problems with centrifugal pumps
• Energy-efficient and cost-effective
• Require low maintenance.
• It produces minimal noise while working.

2)- Submersible Pumps

Submersible pumps are another type of irrigation water pump that is submerged in tanks, wells, or underground. These pumps for irrigation can be responsible for effective water management practices.

The motor and the impeller spins in the casing to suck water into the pump from resources. The water is then pushed from below the surface to the top, with the motor sealed to prevent water damage.

Applications:

• It helps with sustainable agriculture and dispersing water into fields or crops. 
• Used in sewage treatment plants to treat water and reduce the environmental impact.
• Used in drainage flooded areas
• Submersible pumps are also used for emptying tanks and reservoirs

Advantages:

• Do not require priming, since it is already submerged in water
• Less prone to cavitation issues.
• Energy-efficient and require low maintenance. 
• Versatile in nature and can handle various fluid types.
• They do not produce any sound as they work underground. 

3)- Positive Displacement Pump

Positive displacement pumps generate higher pressure and are used in irrigation. Their flow rate is proportional to speed, and the pressure remains constant, so they work on the reciprocating mechanism. However, they are more expensive than other pumps.

Positive displacement pumps trap a fixed amount of water and then force it through the pump during each cycle. As the pump operates, it moves the water in separate quantities using mechanisms like gears or pistons.

Applications:

• Used in food processing as have constant pressure.
• It promotes aquaculture as it will keep the optimal water temperature.
• These pumps are also used in chemical processing.

Advantages:

• Positive displacement pumps are durable 
• Can handle a wide range of viscous fluid
• They can generate high-pressure discharge 
• Provide a more accurate flow rate

4)- Borehole Pumps

Borehole pumps are a type of submersible pumps commonly used for irrigation in agriculture. They force water from underground sources like aquifers to the surface.

This pump contains an impeller housing and an electrically powered pump motor. It promotes efficient water management and maximizes crop yields.

Applications:

• They are used to irrigate crops, plants, fields and more. 
• Used to provide drinking water & water for regular use. 
• Also used to supply water to oil rigs

Advantages:

• They are pretty and produce almost no sound. 
• Provide efficient water transfer.
• Suitable for areas with limited space
• These are reliable, handle high pressure and provide a steady water supply
• They require little maintenance

5)- End-Suction Centrifugal Pumps

As the name suggests, end-suction centrifugal pumps are mounted on the river bank or irrigation system and efficiently push water to the surface. They support water management by increasing the water supply for better crop production and can handle various fluids, including clean water, waste, and chemicals.

These pumps use an impeller to create centrifugal force, which draws fluid into the pump and pushes it out through a discharge port.

Applications:

• Used for watering gardens, lawns or small agricultural fields. 
• Used in drip irrigation systems, sprinkler systems & pivot irrigation for water supply. 
• Used in water treatment plants.

Advantages:

• Deliver high flow rates and are efficient. 
• Less expensive than other pump types 
• Can handle a variety of fluids and temperatures. 
• Easy to install, repair and maintain.
• Produces minimal noise.

6. Turbine Pumps

Turbine pumps are a type of centrifugal pump used for larger irrigation systems. These pumps are submerged in water, but their motor is mounted above them, which dives them via a shaft.

Turbine pumps are designed for high flow rates and are efficient in deep water, promoting efficient water management. They can mainly handle highly volatile fluids and reduce the risk of cavitation. 

Applications:

• To supply water in irrigation systems and wastewater treatment.
• Vertical turbine pumps are used to transfer water from deep wells. 
• They are also used to boost water pressure in municipal pumping systems. 

Advantages: 

• It takes less space and can be fit anywhere. 
• Generates high water pressure
• They have a compact design
• Less risk of cavitation
• Easy to maintain 

7. Booster Pumps

Booster pumps do not take water from one source and move it to another. They are installed in irrigation systems to boost the pressure of water travelling through them.

Booster Pumps use a motor-powered impeller to move water as it enters the inlet. This increases water pressure, forcing the water to flow at a faster rate.

Applications:

• They can be used in industrial processes that require high fluid pressure. 
• Used for transferring the water through storage tanks and other reservoirs. 
• Used in water wells. 

Advantages:

• Keeps your area green and fertile 
• Improve efficiency 
• Require low maintenance 

8. Multi-stage Pumps 

Multistage pumps are a type of centrifugal pump that uses multiple impellers in series to gradually increase a fluid’s pressure. They are used for a variety of applications.

The number of impellers used in the pump determines the final discharge of pressure. The flow rate in these pumps remains constant. These pumps are designed for low energy consumption and promote effective water management. 

Applications:

• Used to boost the water system and continuously circulate water 
• These are used in irrigation system 
• These are also used in the food industry 

Advantages:

• Multistage pumps are highly efficient
• Can increase pressure and are suitable for high-flow applications 
• They are reliable and versatile 
• They produce low noise

9. Hand Pumps 

Hand pumps are manually operated and are considered a low-cost option in rural areas. They move fluid from one place to another using human power.

Hand pumps are an ideal and cost-effective option for small-scale irrigation. Also, they act as a good backup in case of power outages and other emergencies. 

Applications:

• Hand pumps can be used to irrigate crops by pumping water from wells. 
• Primary water source in rural areas to get access to drinking water. 
• Hand pumps are also used for oil pumping. 

Advantages:

• Enhance crop yields 
• These pumps are durable
• They are easy to install 
• No power required 

10. Propeller Pumps

Propeller pumps are used in irrigation, flood control, drainage, and other areas. They are designed to move large volumes of water or other fluids at low heads with high flow rates.

They use a propeller to draw water inside the pump, and the impeller rotates inside the casing to guide the water’s direction. 

Applications:

• They are mainly used to pump water from sources, including lakes, ponds, etc.
• Used for irrigation and drainage.
• It is also used in aquaculture farms and crop harvesting.

Advantages:

• Are cost-effective
• Require low maintenance 

Factors to consider while selecting Irrigation Pumps

Water Source 

The type of water source will impact the kind of irrigation pump you need. For example, submersible pumps are needed for underground water sources, while centrifugal pumps are used for surface water sources. 

Power Source 

Irrigation pumps can be powered by electricity, solar energy, diesel or other sources. Pumps with electric power are generally easy to maintain and more convenient for irrigation systems. 

Flow Rate And Pressure 

The flow rate and pressure of the pump will affect your irrigation system’s performance. For example, End-suction centrifugal pumps offer high flow rates and constant pressure. You can select this based on your needs. 

Cost And Maintenance 

Select a Pump that is easy to maintain and durable. The cost of the pump will depend on the type you select and which brand you use. You need to clarify your requirements and then consider the cost and maintenance of irrigation pumps. 

Read More About: Best Water Pumps Brands In India

Conclusion

Irrigation pumps are crucial for efficient water management in agriculture. However, these pumps can be managed easily with technological advancements, such as smart water pumps and IoT sensors. 

These technological advancements allow real-time monitoring and precise control, promoting water conservation practices. 

Choosing the right irrigation pump is essential for sustainable farming. This will ensure optimal water usage and enhance productivity.