A start-to-finish approach
When tackling an irrigation project, there are some crucial steps to follow to ensure an accurate bill of materials, smooth installation, and zero wastage.
- Survey and assessment
The team completes a detailed survey of the farm and assesses its suitability for irrigation. This determines the most suitable type of irrigation based on water availability, energy resources and topography.
- Design
An experienced team of engineers completes detailed hydraulic designs, layout drawings and pump station blueprints, with a focus on ensuring an efficient system while keeping both capital and operational expenditure down. Thorough planning during this phase ensures smooth project implementation later.
- Shipment and delivery
All components, such as centre pivot parts, PVC/HDPE pipe, filters and containerised pump stations are packed and shipped to the area in complete knocked-down form.
- Installation
The full system is installed on site by skilled technicians. This includes digging trenches, laying cables, constructing pump stations and installing irrigation solutions.
- Automation with remote control
Remote control via smart devices offers management and control over pivots and pumps as a complete unit, simplifying irrigation management and saving energy.
- After-sales service
Technical after-sales service provides ongoing irrigation support, advice and maintenance to ensure optimal operation and peace of mind.
Features of a successful irrigation project
Water conservation
Irrigation solutions should use water as sparingly as possible. These solutions are designed to save water by reducing evaporation and run-off, by the use of durable materials to prevent leaks, and through easy scheduling of irrigation.
Energy efficiency
Lowering power consumption is key to reducing operating costs. Pumps are typically one of the largest sources of electricity. Agrico’s pumps can be integrated with technology such as the Agrico pump controller and variable speed drives to reduce energy expenditure.
Sustainability
Conserving the environment for the next generation is non-negotiable. Irrigation practices should align with sustainability by helping growers make the best use of them without negatively impacting the environment.
Optimal nutrient levels
Healthy plants and a good yield begin with the right quantities and balance of nutrients in the soil or growing medium. Conversely, over-irrigation and excessive nutrient application compromise crop health and yield, while consuming more resources.
Contact Agrico for your optimal irrigation solution.
Agrico draws on more than 100 years of experience to customise, design and install its turnkey irrigation projects. With 38 branches across Southern Africa, including two branches in Zambia, it is ideally placed to offer farmers of all sizes and in every environment irrigation solutions uniquely adapted to their needs.