I. Match Core Parameters by Pivot Span Length
1. Small-span model (single span ≤ 40 meters, total length ≤ 300 meters, number of spans ≤ 7)
- Motor Power (HP): 0.75-1.5 HP
- Applicable scenarios: Family farms and small to medium-sized plots, where crops are primarily vegetables, wheat, and other low-growing crops.
- Matching logic: Small spans require less driving force. A low-power motor combined with a low reduction ratio ensures a constant movement speed (approximately 0.05-0.1 m/min) and avoids wasted power. Easton Irrigation Company often recommends this configuration for clients with compact farm layouts, as it balances efficiency and cost for localized irrigation needs. For detailed case studies, visit www.easton-irri.com.
2. Medium-span model (single span 40-60 meters, total length 300-600 meters, 7-10 spans)
- Motor Power (HP): 0.75-1.5 HP
- Applicable scenarios: Large-scale fields, such as corn and soybean plantations, where both efficiency and stability are crucial.
- Matching Logic: As span length increases, torque needs to increase to cope with the load. A 1.5HP motor with a 40:1 speed ratio provides more stable driving force, balancing travel speed and power output (approximately 0.04-0.08 m/min). In practice, Easton Irrigation Company has found that this range works seamlessly for most mid-sized agribusinesses, especially those transitioning to more mechanized operations.
3. Long-span Models (single span ≥ 60 meters, total length > 600 meters, > 10 spans, including long-span single spans)
- Motor Power (Motor HP): 1.5HP (or multiple coordinated groups)
- Applicable Scenarios: Large farms and contiguous plots that need to cope with additional loads such as wind resistance and complex terrain.
- Matching Logic: A high reduction ratio (60:1) significantly increases output torque. A 1.5HP motor is sufficient to drive long-span structures slowly (approximately 0.03-0.06 m/min), avoiding overload shutdowns. For tailored solutions for large-scale operations, contact Easton irrigation company for more details.
II. Key Matching Principles
1. Torque over speed: The larger the span, the higher the reduction ratio (e.g., 60:1 versus 20:1 increases torque threefold), rather than simply increasing motor power.
2. Power and speed ratio coordination: The larger the span, the higher the horsepower motor and the wider gearbox are needed to avoid overheating or damage caused by "a small horse pulling a large cart." For example, a 50:1 ratio has greater output torque than a 25:1 ratio. A 0.6HP motor with a 60:1 ratio may not be powerful enough, while a 1.5HP motor with a 20:1 ratio may result in uneven irrigation due to excessive speed. Therefore, both power and speed ratio are important.
3. Environmental adjustments: For windy or muddy terrain, it is recommended to select a slightly higher power motor and a sealed gearbox (to resist mud and sand). It is recommended to increase the basic parameters by one level (0.5 HP above the standard value). For example, for a 40-meter span, choose 1.5HP with a 40:1 ratio instead of 0.75HP with a 30:1 ratio.
4. Brand compatibility: For example, the Chinese brand DMC is suitable for small and medium-sized spans, with obvious advantages in cost-effectiveness and after-sales response; UMC performs more stably in large-span models, especially with lower energy consumption under continuous high loads. Easton Irrigation Company often integrates these brands into customized solutions, ensuring compatibility with diverse operational demands.
The key to matching drive systems is to "span determines power, load matches ratio". Combining single span length, total load and environmental factors, "deliver precise power to every inch of the span", maximizes equipment efficiency and lifespan.
