Optimization model for automated surge irrigation

Abstract

A surge flow model has been developed after extensive experimentation in TNAU campus with different practical combinations of furrow size, length and gradients coupled with non-erosive as well as non-silting ranges of furrow inflow discharges for selected surge cycle ratios and number of surges to complete irrigation to predict the water front advance time under automated surge flow. The model waS validated in respect of water front advance times and water distribution efficiencies in order to optimize the dimensional combinations of long furrow layouts coupled with automatic surge mode of irrigation. A user friendly computer software also was developed based on the model for interactive use by the customer.