Center-pivot irrigation (sometimes called central pivot irrigation), also protect more water sealing wheel and circle irrigation, is a method of crop irrigation in which equipment rotates around a pivot and crops are watered with sprinklers. A circular area centered on the pivot is irrigated, often creating a circular pattern in crops when viewed from above sometimes referred to as crop circles, not to be confused with those formed by circular flattening of a section of a crop in a field. Most center pivots were initially water-powered, however today most are propelled by electric motors.
Center-pivot irrigation systems are beneficial due to their ability to efficiently use water and optimize a farm's yield. The systems are highly effective on large land fields.
The pivot’s control panel operates the main functions of the machine. Depending on which control panel the pivot has, the controls will be different, but the way the pivot operates is the same. When a command is entered into the control panel, an electrical signal is sent down the pivot until it reaches the Last Regular Drive Unit. 480 VAC then travels through a motor lead cable from the tower box to the engine. The LRDU moves, either forward or reverse, as the control panel indicated.
As the name suggests, center pivots irrigate in a circular pattern around a central pivot point. Pivots are capable of applying water, fertilizer, chemicals, and herbicides. This versatility can improve the efficiency of irrigation practices by using a single piece of machinery to perform several functions.
Most center pivot machines are electrically powered, using either a generator or a public power source. Pivots use both 120 and 480 volts of alternating current (VAC) to operate.
Center pivot machines have been used in irrigation for decades. Center pivots, one of several types of mechanized irrigation machines, can lead to increased yields and less water wasted compared to other irrigation practices such as flood irrigation. But how exactly does a center pivot work?