| A computer model is presented that analyzes the hydraulic characteristics of a trickle irrigation system subunit. It predicts emitter discharge uniformity and allows evaluation of alternative designs. The overall coefficient of variation, a statistical combination of variation due to manufacturing and variation due to hydraulics, is used as a measure of the emitter discharge uniformity.; Fourteen types of emitter were tested to determine the coefficient of manufacturer's variation and the pressure-discharge relationship of each. These results provided emitter performance parameters for the computer model.; Two waters with high potential for plugging were evaluated for use in trickle systems. Emitter resistance to plugging under conditions of carbonate precipitation was measured. |
