As a traditional irrigation tool, the method of using a waterwheel mainly depends on its specific type and design, but the basic principle is similar. Here are the general steps for irrigating farmland with a waterwheel:
Preparing the Waterwheel
Ensure the waterwheel is structurally intact and undamaged. This includes checking components such as the water wheel, frame, and water trough. For traditional human-powered waterwheels, it is also necessary to confirm that the rotating parts are well-lubricated and free of obstacles.
Positioning the Waterwheel
Place the waterwheel near a water source (such as a river, stream, well, or pond) and in a location convenient for irrigating the farmland.
Loading Water
For some small or simple waterwheels, it may be necessary to manually pour water into the water trough using buckets or containers. For large waterwheels driven by water flow, no manual loading is required, as the waterwheel will automatically draw water from the source.
Driving the Waterwheel
- Human-powered: People need to push the wheel of the waterwheel to make it rotate, which drives the water to rise to a higher position, and then the water flows naturally to irrigate the farmland.
- Water flow-driven: The water flow impacts the water wheel, making the waterwheel rotate naturally to lift the water level for irrigation.
Controlling Irrigation
Adjust the water outlet of the waterwheel or set up water diversion facilities to ensure that the water flow evenly covers the area needing irrigation. Adjust the water flow rate and irrigation volume according to crop needs and soil conditions.
Maintenance and Observation
During use, regularly check the operation of the waterwheel to ensure efficiency and promptly repair damaged parts. Observe the moisture level of the farmland and adjust the irrigation strategy in a timely manner.
The operation method of modern improved sprinkler trucks (sometimes also called "water trucks") is more automated, generally including the following steps:
Checking the Vehicle
Ensure all parts of the vehicle are in normal condition, especially the water tank, pump, pipeline system, and nozzles.
Filling with Water
Drive the vehicle to a water source, open the tank mouth assembly, connect the water pipe, and fill the tank until the required water level is reached.
Starting the Operation
Enter the cab, start the vehicle, then activate the power take-off to make the pump start working. Adjust the water flow and sprinkling mode through the control panel.
Driving and Sprinkling
Drive the vehicle slowly along the edge of the farmland, and at the same time, water is evenly sprinkled onto the farmland through the nozzles.
Ending the Operation
After completing the irrigation, first turn off the pump, then stop the vehicle, and finally clean and maintain the vehicle.
Whether it is a traditional waterwheel or a modern sprinkler truck, safety should be paid attention to during operation to ensure that no harm is caused to the operator or the farmland.