Screen Filters in Trickle Irrigation Systems1

Trickle irigation is a system by which water is applied at low rates and high frequency to the root zone of a crop. In addition, water soluble nutrients and other chemicals can be delivered with irrigation water at rates close to the plant requirement. When well managed, trickle irrigation will result in water, nutrient, and energy savings due to its low operating pressure and high emission uniformity (when compared to the other pressurized irrigation systems). However, trickle irrigation usually require a higher level of management than other irrigation systems. Water quality is a major concern in the management of trickle irrigation systems. Emitters plugged by physical, chemical, or biological contaminants may create significant problems in everyday maintenance. Therefore, effective and reliable filtration is mandatory for successful operation o