Elements and Performance Criteria
- Identify irrigation system requirements from the irrigation design
- Select pump according to type, installation, range of flow rates, operating head and delivery distance
- Select the basic type of pump based on the pump task and placement and the power source
- Calculate the total operating head required
- Calculate the required discharge for the pump based on the irrigation output required and friction losses in the system
- Determine the speed and power requirements of the pump motor
- Determine the limiting suction lift of the pump
- Interpret pump performance curves when selecting an efficient irrigation pump
- Determine the size of the impeller from the pump curve
- Supervise installation of pumps
- Ensure pump is sited as close as possible to water source and is level
- Verify pump is properly anchored and connections are airtight
- Confirm pump and motor connection are correctly aligned and motor is ventilated
- Verify filters and valves are correctly fitted and orientated
- Check pump is connected to the irrigation controller if required
- Oversee commissioning and testing of pumping system
- Develop maintenance procedures for the pumping system
- Carry out troubleshooting on pumping systems
- Investigate lack of discharge or pressure and change settings or components
- Investigate loss of water suction and make alterations to placement or fix leakages
- Investigate cavitation in pumps and change settings or components
- Investigate excessive power consumption and review design and pump selection and check for mechanical defects