Geometric Characteristics of Dripper Labyrinths and Accumulation of Solid Particles: Simulation and Experimentation
Gustavo Lopes Muniz | Antonio Pires de Camargo | Nassim Ait-Mouheb | Nicolás Duarte Cano
Emitter clogging in drip irrigation systems is a recurring issue, affecting water application uniformity and system lifespan. This study investigated the anti-clogging performance of emitters and the accumulation patterns of solid particles in dripper labyrinths with varied geometric configurations, combining laboratory experimentation and computational fluid dynamics simulations. Fifteen labyrinth models were tested, divided into two groups: (Model A) emitters with well-defined vortexes and (Model B) emitters with uniform flow. The tests were conducted with solid particle concentrations of 125 and 500 mg L<sup>−1</sup> over 200 h of operation. The results showed that none of the emitters became clogged, even under severe particle concentration conditions. However, distinct deposition patterns were observed. Emitters with vortex formation accumulated particles in low-velocity zones, especially in the first baffles of the labyrinth. In contrast, emitters with uniform flow minimized sediment buildup, maintaining high velocities throughout the channel section. Simulations confirmed that the relationship between labyrinth geometry and flow velocity directly influences particle deposition. Dripper design strategies aimed at reducing low-velocity zones in the channel could help mitigate clogging risks. The findings of this study provide valuable guidelines for developing more clogging-resistant emitters, contributing to the improvement of drip irrigation systems.
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