Reliable irrigation is the backbone of modern agriculture. The right pump ensures efficient water delivery, lower energy costs, and long-term reliability across farms, orchards, and vineyards.
Energy Matters
Pumps are often one of the largest energy consumers on a farm. Efficient pump selection and operation directly impact profitability and sustainability.
Why Pump Selection Matters
Crop Yield
Consistent water supply supports healthy crop growth and maximises harvest quality
Energy Costs
Pumps are often the largest energy consumers on a farm – efficiency reduces operating costs
System Reliability
Correct pump choice reduces downtime and repair costs during critical growing seasons
Water Efficiency
Ensures compliance with water allocations and sustainability goals
Common Irrigation Methods
Flood Irrigation
Requires high flow at low head; suited to large centrifugal pumps
Sprinkler Systems
Medium flow, moderate head; requires stable pressure for even coverage
Drip Irrigation
Low flow, higher pressure; benefits from efficient, steady-flow pumps
Pivot Irrigation
Constant pressure supply; often uses multi-stage centrifugal or turbine pumps
Surface Water Transfer
Moving water from rivers, channels, or dams; requires high-volume, portable pumps
Pump Types for Irrigation
Centrifugal Pumps
Versatile workhorses, ideal for flood and sprinkler irrigation. Best efficiency for clean water applications.
Diesel Trailer Pumps
Mobile and portable, suitable for remote locations without grid power. Easy to relocate between paddocks.
Submersible Pumps
Reliable for bore water extraction and confined spaces. Quiet operation with minimal maintenance.
Vertical Turbine Pumps
Efficient for deep bores or high-flow irrigation networks. Excellent for continuous duty applications.
Electric Motor Pumps
Cost-effective for continuous operation where power is available. Lower running costs than diesel alternatives.
Key Selection Factors
Water Source
Surface water, bore water, or recycled wastewater
Flow Rate Required
Based on irrigation system size and crop demand
Total Dynamic Head (TDH)
Includes suction lift, elevation, pipe friction, and system pressure
Water Quality
Sand, silt, or debris may require wear-resistant pumps
Power Availability
Electricity vs diesel vs solar solutions
Automation Needs
Integration with timers, VSDs, or remote monitoring
Best Practices
Install screens or strainers at suction inlets to prevent clogging
Match pump curves to system requirements to avoid oversizing or cavitation
Use variable speed drives (VSDs) on electric pumps for efficiency
Regularly maintain seals, bearings, and impellers for long service life
Monitor energy consumption – an efficient pump can reduce operating costs significantly
Energy & Sustainability Considerations
Electric Pumps
Typically cheaper to run where grid power is available
Diesel Pumps
Best for remote sites but require fuel logistics planning
Solar-Assisted Pumps
Emerging sustainable options for small-to-medium irrigation setups
Water Compliance
Efficient pumping reduces water loss and ensures licence compliance
Summary
Key Takeaways
- Match pump to irrigation method – flood, sprinkler, drip, and pivot systems have different requirements
- Consider all factors – water source, flow rate, TDH, water quality, and power availability
- Efficiency reduces costs – proper pump selection and VSDs can significantly lower energy consumption
- Sustainability matters – efficient pumping ensures compliance with water allocations