Location:

Karsten Turf Research Facility, University of Arizona

Site Type:

Commercial

The Challenge:

Compare the performance characteristics of rotors and sprays with PRS technology vs. similar products without.

Performed By:

University of Arizona Department of Soil, Water and Environmental Science

The Study:

• Eight different turf plots were evaluated (4 with PRS and 4 without) at different inlet pressure levels.

• In each case, 10 different tests were conducted measuring precipitation rate (PR), application efficiency (AE) and distribution uniformity (DU).

• Industry standard tests for DU included the use of “catch cans” with calculations made for low quarter distribution uniformity (DULQ) and low half distribution uniformity (DUHL).

The Results:

PRS showed marked improvements in the three key performance characteristics across the body of tests, particularly at inlet pressure levels that exceed the manufacturer recommended level.

Highlights:

Rain Bird PRS demonstrated improved performance, including:

• PRS rotors reduced water use by 15-22%, depending on psi
• PRS rotors greatly reduced misting
• PRS sprays reduced water use by 11-14%, depending on psi
• Distribution uniformity (DU) was improved, particularly in windy conditions