Irrigation Control System Boosts Efficiency & Sustainability

At Alpha Drives Ltd, we are thrilled to share details of a completed project that underscores our commitment to enhancing agricultural sustainability through advanced automation solutions. Our team has successfully implemented a state-of-the-art Siemens Control System for an extensive irrigation project, designed to optimize water usage and distribution.

Project Overview

This innovative irrigation system is engineered to pump water from an underground tank that collects surface water run-off. The system then channels the water to an overground storage tank, which subsequently distributes it to various filter beds. The distribution is meticulously controlled through a series of main irrigation control valves and pressure-independent valves. These valves are programmed to open in a precise sequence, ensuring the delivery of a consistent water volume of 11.5 cubic meters to each designated area, covering a vast span of 3366 square meters.

Advanced Control and Monitoring

One of the standout features of this system is its ability to record and monitor water usage on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. This data-driven approach not only enhances the efficiency of water usage but also provides valuable insights for future planning and resource management. The system is equipped with a dial-in modem for seamless connectivity with local PCs, allowing for easy monitoring and control.

Instrumentation and Components

Alpha Drives Ltd. took pride in supplying and specifying all the critical instrumentation for this project. Our selection included cutting-edge technology such as:

Mag Flow Meters: These meters are crucial for accurate flow measurement, ensuring that the water volume delivered to the irrigation areas is precise and consistent.

Siemens Control Hardware

The control system itself is built on robust Siemens hardware, featuring:

S71200 PLC: This programmable logic controller forms the backbone of the system, offering high performance and reliability in managing the irrigation operations.

KTP900 SIMATIC HMI: The Human-Machine Interface (HMI) provides an intuitive interface for system monitoring and control, allowing operators to easily oversee and adjust settings as needed.

7.5 kW G120 / PM240-2 VSD Power Units: These Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) are essential for controlling the pump speed, enhancing energy efficiency, and reducing operational costs.

Overloads Starters: These protect the electrical components of the system, ensuring safe and reliable operation.

Enhancing Sustainability

This project exemplifies Alpha Drives Ltd’s dedication to integrating advanced technology with sustainable practices. By automating the irrigation process and optimizing water usage, we are contributing to more efficient agricultural practices that conserve water resources and promote environmental sustainability.

Our team’s expertise and commitment to quality were instrumental in delivering a solution that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our clients. We are proud to be at the forefront of innovations that drive efficiency, sustainability, and productivity in agriculture.

At Alpha Drives Ltd, we look forward to continuing our journey of innovation and excellence, bringing transformative solutions to the agricultural sector and beyond. Stay tuned for more updates on our projects and the latest advancements in control systems and automation technology.