PIVOT VS DRIP
2Pages

Mechanized irrigation systems are the leading method of crop irrigation in many agricultural areas around the world. Mechanized irrigation systems are steadily replacing, traditional flood irrigation and other types of sprinklers, and also subsurface drip irrigation (SDI). A number of irrigation conversions are made to offset farm labor costs but, as an added benefit, mechanized irrigation systems are also highly efficient, with up to 95% efficiency in water application uniformity. Reinke is on the leading edge of farming technology. Our remote management systems, variable rate irrigation technology and sprinkler efficiency, make a center pivot the right choice for your operation. The long life of a pivot or lateral system will save you money year after year. You’ll use less water, reducing your energy costs. Mechanized irrigation systems cost less, last longer and retain their value. Your initial investment for a center pivot is much less expensive than for a drip irrigation system. You can cut labor costs and save time with a mechanized irrigation system. One person can run multiple machines covering thousands of acres using remote management. A mechanized irrigation system can be used with virtually any crop with a higher application efficiency than drip irrigation. Applying the correct amount of water at the right time is crucial to achieving a good yield, but it's also important to apply it uniformly and at precisely the right amount.

Initial Cost • Pivots typically cost between $245-$400/acre ($600-$1000/ha). • Drip systems cost 20% to 100% more than pivots. Maintenance Cost • The normal, annual cost to maintain a drip system is about 7-10% of the initial investment. • On a center pivot that's used 2000 hours per year, the annual maintenance cost is about 1-2% of the original purchase price. Management • The 50,000 emitters on a 124 acre (50 ha) drip system requires considerably more dedicated management than center pivots. And that doesn't even take into account the filter, drip lines, system controls, and higher...