Evaluation of Wind Effects as Sprinkler Pattern Stability and Spacing Criteria
The purpose of this study was to analyze the wind effects of wind velocity, nozzle size, and pressure upon pattern profiles. To develop a graphical means of presenting various sprinkler spacings expressed as a percentage of the wetted diameter vs. coefficient of uniformity for the various sprinkler pattern shapes, pattern stability indices, spacing ratios, and relative wind directions tested. Single sprinkler can-catch data were analyzed using computer programs to determine the effect of the several factors upon CU and spacing. The findings indicated that no one wind direction, pattern shape, or spacing consistently produced the highest CUfi values. The total effect of all factors must be considered before optimum system design can be accomplished.