Work

Operating Point Control System in Single-Phase Motor Pump Sets Used in Irrigation Systems: Development and Evaluation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Fixed irrigation systems often experience uneven water pressure across different sections, making it challenging to irrigate all areas efficiently without wasting energy. This issue is particularly evident when using low-power, single-phase motors. To address this, we created a load controller that fine-tunes how these motors work in irrigation systems with changing needs. Our load controller uses a MOC-TRIAC circuit and an Arduino Nano to adjust motor power. Furthermore, we developed a smartphone app that connects via Bluetooth, allowing users to conveniently set the motor power as needed. We tested it on two 1 hp motor pumps, using valves, a flow meter, and pressure gauges to simulate different conditions. By adjusting the “firing angle” of the motor, we were able to change the water pressure by up to 80% while maintaining the flow rate the same. This resulted in energy savings up to 70% and reduced current consumption by 50%. The only limitation occurred at very high-power reductions (75%) and low flow rates (below 3 m3 h−1), where motor overheating was observed. Overall, our load controller presents a promising solution to save energy in irrigation systems by precisely matching motor power to the system’s needs.

Source: AgriEngineering

DOI: 10.3390/agriengineering7090298

Authors: Angelo Tiago Azevedo, Marinaldo Ferreira Pinto, Marcus Vinicius Morais Oliveira, Alexandre de Melo Pereira, Daniel Fonseca de Carvalho

Institutions: Universidade de São Paulo, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro

Language: English

Topic: Engineering and Agricultural Innovations

Subfield: Aquatic Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,930