BURIE POLY TVET COLLEGE

Learning Guide #10

Unit of Competence: Maintain pressurized irrigation systems
Module Title: Maintaining pressurized irrigation systems
LG Code: AGR SSD 2M 10 0912 (LO1-LO2)
TTLM Code: AGR SSD2 TTLM 10 09 12v1

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 Instruction Learning Guide 10

This learning guide is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the following
learning outcomes, content coverage and topics –
 Carrying out pre- and post-season maintenance
 Carrying out routine maintenance activities on pressurized irrigation delivery systems
 Maintaining system components
 Recording and reporting maintenance activities

This guide will also assist you to attain the learning outcome stated in the cover page. Specifically, upon
completion of this Learning Guide, you will be able to –
 Prepare equipment pre-season for effective operation in accordance with design specifications
and enterprise standards.
 Flush, clean, close down and maintain system post-season in accordance with design
specifications and enterprise standards.
 Dismantle, load, transport and store Equipment requiring storage without damage according to
enterprise standards and safe working practices.
 Carry out all maintenance activities according to the maintenance program and the
manufacturers’ specifications.
 Service Mechanical equipment in accordance with the operators’ manual or as directed.
 Flush and clean Supply and distribution systems with sprinklers, emitters and/or drip line tapes
replaced as directed.
 Clean and replace outlets, strainers, pump screens and filters as directed.
 Visually inspect System for leaks, operating faults and dry areas, and observations recorded in the
maintenance book.
 Maintain operation area in a clean and safe condition, and OHS procedures are followed.
 Carry out system maintenance at scheduled times using equipment and materials in accordance
with enterprise standards and manufacturers specifications.
 Inspect Parts for wear or blockage and reported or replaced according to enterprise guidelines.
 Remove and clean Outlets and damaged ones are reassembled and replaced according to
manufacturer’s specifications.
 Maintain operation area in a clean and safe condition, and OHS procedures are followed.
 Record all damage and blockage caused by pests and vermin by damage type, location and the
section of the system affected.
 Record and report, and take an action damage or faulty pumps, valves, electrical components and
computer systems to effect repairs.
 Record and report all routine maintenance activities in accordance with enterprise standards.

Learning Activities
1. Read the specific objectives of this Learning Guide.
2. Read the information written under “Information Sheet 1”.
3. Accomplish the “Self-check” under “Information Sheet 1”.

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4. If you earned a satisfactory evaluation proceed to the next “Information Sheet”. However, if
your rating is unsatisfactory, see your trainer for further instructions or go back to Learning
Activity #2.
5. Submit your accomplished Self-check. This will form part of your training portfolio.
6. Read the information written in the next “Information Sheet”.
7. Accomplish the “Self-check”.
8. If you earned a satisfactory evaluation of “Self-check” proceed to “Operation Sheet”.
However, if your rating is unsatisfactory, see your trainer for further instructions or go back
to Learning Activity #6.
9. Read the “Operation Sheet” and try to understand the procedures discussed.
10. Continue the above to Learning Activity procedures until you successfully finalize all the
“Information Sheets”; “Self-check” and “Operation Sheet” correspondingly with acquiring
the required knowledge, skill and attitude.
11. You will be also provided with additional reference reading materials. Read the information
written in the reference reading materials for further elaboration. You can ask your trainer if
you need additional reference reading materials.
12. Request the required materials and access the information as described under each Operation
Sheet. Read all the contents of the materials and try to understand the procedures discussed.
Additional readings are provided in Operation Sheet in Request access to the materials
accordingly. Practice the steps or procedures as illustrated in your materials. Go to your
trainer if you need clarification or you want answers to your questions or you need assistance
in understanding a particular step or procedure.
13. Do the “LAP test” if you are ready and show your output to your trainer. Your teacher will
evaluate your output either satisfactory or unsatisfactory. If unsatisfactory, your trainer shall
advice you on additional work. But if satisfactory you can proceed to Learning Guide 11.

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 Carrying out pre- and post-season
Information Sheet-1
maintenance
This Information Sheet is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the following
content coverage and topics:-
1.1. Prepare equipment pre-season for effective operation in accordance with design
specifications and enterprise standards.
1.2. Flush, clean, close down and maintain system post-season in accordance with design
specifications and enterprise standards.
1.3. Dismantle, load, transport and store Equipment requiring storage without damage according
to enterprise standards and safe working practices.

1.1. Pre-season preparation of equipment for effective operation

Pre-season irrigation maintenance is as it sounds - maintenance that occurs prior to the start of a
new season.

A pressurized irrigation system provides water to garden beds, lawn areas, nursery, etc. All of
these areas have different types of plants and different watering requirements. The system has
therefore been designed to efficiently cater for these different needs.

This means that there are different types of pipes and sprinklers in specific areas of the botanic
gardens. They are all programmed electronically and all details of the irrigation plan and
program are recorded and updated on a regular basis. All irrigation maintenance is recorded.

Pressurized irrigation system needs to be maintained prior to the new season starting. Before
placing the System into service each season, check the following:

Visual Inspection: Make a visual check of all bolts in the System making sure something has
not become loose during the idle period. When the System has been newly installed, all the bolts
should be checked with an end wrench to make sure they have been tightened by the erection
crew. One loose bolt may cause serious structural damages. Check the electrical boxes and
wiring of the System to make sure the Ground Wires are secured and rodents or insects have not
damaged the Systems’ mechanisms.

Flushing/Draining the System: Place the Disconnect Switch in the “OFF” position. Only water
is required for this procedure – the System does not need to move. DO NOT start the flushing
procedure while the System is under water pressure. Removing Sand Trap Caps while the
System is under pressure can cause personal injury or death! Remove the Sand Trap Cap and
pump water through the System. This will flush out any foreign material that might plug the
Sprinkler Heads or Sprinkler Valves. This is particularly important on newly installed Systems,
because of possible straw, dirt or any other material may be accumulated in the pipe during
erection. After the Sand Trap Cap is back in place, pump water through the System and check

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the Sprinklers for proper operation. The arc travel of the End Gun should be set as the diagrams
show on page 16 of the owner’s manual. Also, check the System water pressure to see if it is
operating at the proper pressure. If the water pressure has fallen, your Well may need adjustment
or repair, or after time, the Sprinkler Head nozzles may be worn. Repair or replace any worn or
damaged sprinklers, pressure regulators, or fittings. These problems will reduce the uniformity of
water application and should be corrected. If a Sprinkler Nozzle is replaced, make sure the new
one is the same size. After flushing the System, check the function of the Low Pressure Drains
by pushing each one upward in a rotating motion. Low Pressure Drains are located on the bottom
side of each Hook Joint, the Last Tower Top and on the End Boom Pipe.

Lubrication: Grease fittings are located on the Power Tower Cart (Lateral Move only), Pivot
Point (8), at any optional Steel U-joints (1 each), and on any Towable Gearboxes (2 each). These
fittings should be greased with good quality grease. Check the oil level in the center Drive and
Wheel Gearboxes. Water condenses in the Gearboxes and should be drained. The water may be
drained by loosening the drain plug on the bottom. When the plug is removed, if there is any
water, it will be the first to drain out. Do not overfill any of these Gearboxes! Overfilling may
result in seal damage. NOTE: Refer to the Reinke Wheel Gearbox Maintenance Section.

Switches: Main Control Panel Switches should be cycled and checked for proper System
operation. All automatic controls such as Auto-Stop, End Gun, Tower Auto-Stop and Tower
Auto-Reverse should be cycled to check for proper operation. Consult your Reinke Dealer or
authorized Service Technician for assistance.

Booster Pump: If a Booster pump is installed on your System, it should be inspected for proper
operation. A second person should be located near the End Boom. Turn the Percent Timer to
zero and with power to the System, press the Start Button. When the System is at normal
operating pressure, turn the End Gun Switch to the ON position and check the phasing of the
Booster Pump. When viewing from above, the pump shaft should be turning in a clockwise
direction when running. Operating the pump backward can damage the pump. When the End
Gun switch is OFF, the Booster Pump should be OFF. If the phasing needs to be changed,
contact your Reinke Dealer or Service Person.

Tires: Tire pressure should be maintained according to the chart in the owner’s manual. Also,
inspect the Tires for impending problems (cuts, breaks, etc.).

Generators: If your System utilizes Generator Belts, check them for proper tension and wear.
Before starting the Engine, remove any rodent nests from the Engine Fan Cover. The Generator
Pulley may initially be rotated either direction to generate power. Caution. If the Generator
rotation is ever reversed later, the System will be out-of-phase. Call your Dealer or Service
Person to correct the phasing problem if you plan to operate the Generator while rotating it in the
opposite direction. 

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NOTE: The Generator warranty requires that all Combustion Engines coupled to a Generator,
driving the System, must have a Governor, a Tachometer, and a Safety Load Meter. The
Generator and System controls will be damaged by over or under Engine speeding.

There are a few things that we need to do.

1. Inspection: check that all parts are in good working order. This includes the
sprinkler heads, pipes and valves.
2. Fix: find out how to fix problems that you may find in your inspection and
determine the types of equipment you would need to fix them.
3. Assist: help a new employee to decommission some equipment including parts of
an in ground irrigation system; aluminum snap lock system; dripper system and
bayonet sprinklers.

There are some fairly common problems that are picked up in a pre-season check of gardens.

Things like valve boxes and sprinklers getting covered by mulch and vegetation; sprinkler heads
can sometimes get blocked by dirt or ants; and damage to the poly pipe or sprinklers are also not
uncommon.

The process for fixing them is to:

1. Find them.
2. Write their position on an irrigation plan.
3. Write up an irrigation fault report for each.
4. Fix them.

Normally the first step in a pre-season check would be to find the irrigation problems and
write their location on an irrigation plan.
You are required to write an irrigation fault report for each (five in total) of the problems
identified on the plan.

Make sure to reference the plan in the irrigation fault report, as these two documents would
normally be used together.

General:

o Do a general cleaning of hull, deck o Clean canvas, bimini and dodger

and topsides using a mild detergent
o Make sure drains and scuppers are
clear
o Put on a good coat of wax
o Clean and polish metal with a good
metal polish
o Clean teak and oil
o Clean windows and hatches
o Clean interior including bilges
o Check spare parts and tools and
replace as necessary
o Make sure registration is current and
onboard
o Check and replace wiper blades if
necessary

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Hull
o Check for hull abrasions, scratches,
gouges, etc. and repair
o Check and replace zincs
o Check for blisters and refinish is
necessary
o Check rub rails
Deck, fittings, safety equipment:
o Check stanchion, pulpits and
lifelines for integrity
o Check ground tackle, lines, fenders,
etc.
o Check chain plates and cleats
o Check hull/deck joint
o Check deck, windows, and port
lights for leaks
Below decks:
o Check, test and lubricate sea cocks
o Check condition of hoses and clamps
o Make sure below waterline hoses are
double clamped
Electrical system and components:
o Check battery water level
o Check/recharge batteries
o Check terminals for corrosion, clean
and lubricate
o Check bonding system
o Inspect all wiring for wear and
chafe
o Test all gauges for operability
Required and recommended equipment:
o Sound signaling device
o Check distress signals and expiration
date
o Check Pfds
o Inspect life rings and cushions
o Check swim platform and/or ladder
o Inspect and test trim tabs
o Check shaft, cutlass bearing, strut
and prop
o Check rudder and fittings
o Touch up or replace antifouling paint
o Inspect anchor windlass and
lubricate
o Clean and grease winches
o Check and lubricate blocks, pad
eyes, etc.
o Check dinghy, and life raft
o Check bilges pumps for automatic
and manual operation
o Check for oil in bilges
o Check limber holes and make sure
they are clear of debris
o Check shore power and charger
o Check for spare fuses
o Check all lighting fixtures
(including navigation lights) and
make sure you have spare bulbs
o Check all electronics for proper
operation
o Inspect antennas
o Check fire extinguishers and
recharge if necessary
o Check and adjust compass
o Check navigation lights
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 o Check charts and replace as o Check and replace first aid supplies
necessary o Check bailer and hand pump
o Check radar reflector

Inboard engine(s):

o Change oil & filters - have spare
onboard
o Check and change fuel filters - have
spares onboard
o Check and change engine zincs
o Check cooling system change
coolant as necessary - have extra
onboard
o Record engine maintenance log,
especially date & hours of last oil
changes
o Check belts for tension
o Check transmission fluid
o Check and clean backfire flame
arrestor
o Check impeller
o Check and clean water strainer
o Check bilge blower

Head system:
o Checked for smooth operation - lubricate and clean as necessary
o If equipped with treatment system, have chemicals on hand
o Y-valve operation checked, valve labeled & secured

Water system:

o Flush water tank o Check for tank cap keys on board

o Check water system and pump for o Check and clean shower sump pump
leaks and proper operation screens
o Check hot water tank working on
both AC and engines

Galley:
o Fill propane tank, check electric & manual valves, check storage box vent to make sure it
is clear
o Check refrigerator, clean and freshen, operate on AC and DC
o Clean stove, check that all burners and oven are working
o Check microwave, if fitted

Outboard motor:

o Replace spark plugs o Change/fill gear lube

o Check plug wires for wear o Inspect fuel lines, primer bulb and
o Check prop for nicks and bends tank for leaks
o Lubricate and spray moveable parts

Trailer:

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 o Check for current registration
o Check rollers and pads
o Check and lubricate wheel bearings
o Clean and lubricate winch
o Lubricate tongue jack and wheel
o Test lights and electrical connections
o Check tire pressure and condition
o Check brakes (if equipped)
o Check safety chains
o Check tongue lock

Sails:

o Check general condition o Check all sail attachments

o Look for wear and chafing o Inspect bolt rope
o Check battens and batten pockets

Mast and rigging:

o Check mast and spreaders for

corrosion or damage
o Inspect spreader boots and shrouds
o Inspect rivets and screw connections
for corrosion
o Check reefing points and reefing
gear
o Clean sail track
o Check rigging, turnbuckles and
clevis pins for wear and corrosion
o Inspect stays for fraying and "fish
hooks"
o Check forestay and backstay
connections
o Check masthead fitting and pulleys
o Check and lubricate roller furling
o Check halyards and consider
replacing or swapping end for end
o Tape turnbuckles, cotter pins, and
spreaders

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It is suggested that we add three more items to the spring checklist. They are as follows:
1. Lubricate stuffing boxes, shaft and rudder logs
2. Empty water separator filters
3. Shock the drinking water tank. Barry suggests pool shock not bleach. Pool shock breaks
down in a few days and then can be flushed out.

1.2. Post-season flushing, cleaning, closing down and maintenance of the system

Cleaning Water Lines

If there is heavy scaling on the collector and/or blocked water passages, consult for cleaning
recommendations.
Chlorine present in tap water is harmful to the klystron water passages. Thorough flushing with
de ionized water will remove all traces of chlorine. Never use tap water for final refill or for
makeup water.

Other cleanliness issues

The sight glass and float of the water-flow indicators must also be kept clean to achieve efficient
system operation. The water-flow indicators usually become contaminated during use, and this
contamination collects on the sight glass and float, making the readouts difficult to see. If too
much contamination is present on the glass and float, they may stick and produce an erroneous
reading. The detergent and cleaning solutions may not remove all of this contamination. If this is
the case, the flow meter must be removed and cleaned and the glass surface brushed.

Flushing the Klystron Water Lines

It is good engineering practice to flush all cooling passages before installing the device. VEDs
that have been in service for some time will develop scale on the collector. Contaminated water
also contributes to dirty water lines. The following back flushing procedure is suggested for units
having contaminated water lines, corrosion, scale, or blocked passages

1.3. Dismantling, loading, transporting and storing equipment requiring storage

Before loading and transporting irrigation equipment, it is necessary to dismantle properly, so
that it can be easily packed and get ready for transportation .Material handling equipment (MHE)
is used for the movement and storage of material within a facility or at a site. Material handling
equipment can be classified into the following five major categories:
I. Transport Equipment. Equipment used to move material from one location to another
(e.g., between workplaces, between a loading dock and a storage area, etc.). The major
subcategories of transport equipment are conveyors, cranes, and industrial trucks.
Material can also be transported manually using no equipment.
II. Positioning Equipment. Equipment used to handle material at a single location so that it
is in the correct position for subsequent handling, machining, transport, or storage. Unlike
transport equipment, positioning equipment is usually used for handling at a single
workplace. Material can also be positioned manually using no equipment.
III. Unit Load Formation Equipment. Equipment used to restrict materials so that they
maintain their integrity when handled a single load during transport and for storage. If

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 materials are self-restraining (e.g., a single part or interlocking parts), then they can be
formed into a unit load with no equipment.
IV. Storage Equipment. Equipment used for holding or buffering materials over a period of
time. Some storage equipment may include the transport of materials. If materials are
block stacked directly on the floor, then no storage equipment is required.
V. Identification and Control Equipment. Equipment used to collect and communicate the
information that is used to coordinate the flow of materials within a facility and between
a facility and its suppliers and customers. The identification of materials and associated
control can be performed manually with no specialized equipment.

Transporting and stacking large equipments has caused numerous injuries to and deaths of
operators of the machinery and people near the scene of operations. Many accidents occur when
equipments topple off the forks of a front-end loader and strike the operator. Accidents can be
avoided by using suitable equipment for the job and by taking care when using the equipment.

Equipment Handling Attachments

It’s important to use only properly designed and constructed mechanical handling equipment, for
example a loader, lift truck or rough terrain handler, with a proprietary handling attachment to
ensure the equipment is secure from movement during lifting. Ensure your machinery is properly
maintained.

Safety in Handling and Transporting

The equipment has to be purposely designed to secure the equipments or to restrain it that it
cannot fall when raised.
Where possible, avoid using parts and attachments not purpose-built for the particular model of
front-end loader you are using. Any modifications made to existing equipment must be purposely
designed and the work should be carried out by qualified persons.

Self-Check 1 Written Test

Name: _________________________ Date: _______________

Directions: Answer all the questions listed below. Illustrations may be necessary to aid
some explanations/answers.

1. What is pre-season maintenance? Explain it. (5 pts)

2. List the advantages of pre-season maintenance? (5pts)
3. What is the purpose of flushing and cleaning the system? (5pts)
4. Write some of the equipments used in a pressurized irrigation system? (5pts)

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 Note: Satisfactory rating - 15 points and above Unsatisfactory - below 15 points
You can ask your teacher for the copy of the correct answers

Carrying out routine maintenance activities on

Information Sheet-2
pressurized irrigation delivery systems
This Information Sheet is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the following
content coverage and topics:-
2.1. arry out all maintenance activities according to the maintenance program and the
manufacturers’ specifications.
2.2. Service Mechanical equipment in accordance with the operators’ manual or as directed.
2.3. Flush and clean Supply and distribution systems with sprinklers, emitters and/or drip line
tapes replaced as directed.
2.4. Clean and replace outlets, strainers, pump screens and filters as directed.
2.5. Visually inspect System for leaks, operating faults and dry areas, and observations recorded
in the maintenance book.
2.6. Maintain operation area in a clean and safe condition, and OHS procedures are followed.

2.1 Carrying out maintenance activities, according to the maintenance program and the
manufacturers’ specifications.

Planning the activities to be undertaken in the following year is particularly important in

countries where government allocations for operation and maintenance are made on the basis of
planned expenditure. A good justification of the work to be done and the consequences if it is not
undertaken is of foremost importance to obtain financing for maintenance work. Even where this
is not the case, planning the activities that can be executed within the limited resources available
is a useful exercise.

Maintenance activities can be more easily undertaken in the off-season, as during this period,
labor from the farming community is normally plentiful. Furthermore, if farmers are engaged in
maintenance work on their own land for their own benefit, they' are more likely to work
willingly. Also, operational personnel are more free at that time of the year and can be engaged
to supervise or execute part of the maintenance work themselves

2.2. Servicing mechanical equipment in accordance with the operator’s manual or as directed

The Maintenance Service is entrusted with the overall responsibility for keeping the irrigation
and drainage systems working in a satisfactory manner, within the limitations imposed by the
initial design.

Similarly to the Operation Service, the main functions to be undertaken are:

 Planning the maintenance activities;
 Implementing the maintenance activities planned and those unforeseen;
 Monitoring the above mentioned activities.
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A Maintenance Service requires data for good planning which can be obtained by regular
monitoring. Without reliable data on costs for the different units of work and on productivity no
realistic planning can be done. Later in this text, productivity data are given for machinery and
manpower engaged in maintenance operations. They will be helpful when planning and costing
activities if no better data are available, but a project should endeavor to have its own data based
on the specific conditions of the area.

2.3. Flushing and cleaning supply and distribution systems

Flushing
This method consists of pumping water under pressure into the distribution systems, thus
removing the dirt by jet action. It can be done with a high pressure nozzle (80-100 atmosphere)
delivered from a farm tractor of about 40 hp, or with a low pressure nozzle (20 atmosphere)
delivered from a movable motor; 1000 m/day of tile drain can be cleaned with this machine. Its
disadvantage is that it only removes a small portion of the silt and in sandy soils there is the risk
of sand entering the pipes. With this method drains of up to 350 m can be cleaned.

Flushing the Transmitter Water Lines

Contaminants such as solder, soldering or brazing flux, oils, metal chips or burrs, and possibly
Teflon sealing tape, can frequently be found in new transmitter waterlines. When the water lines
are first installed, these contaminants must be flushed and cleaned from the system before the
device and magnets are connected. The cleaning procedures in the transmitter manual should
also be followed.

Before cleaning the transmitter closed circulating water system, disconnect the device and
magnet, then:
1. Add jumper hoses between the input and output of the klystron and electromagnet water
lines.
2. Disconnect or bypass the pump motor.
3. Fill the system with hot tap water. Open drain in transmitter cabinet, and flush for 15 minutes
or until clean.
4. Separately flush water lines between tank and pump with hot tap water until clean.
5. Connect all water lines, and fill system with hot tap water and non-sudsing detergent.
Trisodium phosphate is recommended; follow product directions.
6. Operate water system with hot tap water for 30 minutes. An immersion heater may be used to
maintain hot water.
7. Drain and flush system with hot tap water for 30 minutes.
8. Remove and clean filter element.
9. Refill water system with tap water (ambient temperature).
10. Operate water system. Maintain water level while draining and flushing system until no
detergent, foam, or foreign objects or particles are visible in drained or filter element. To test
for detergents in water, use small glass test tube, drain sample of water into test tube, and
allow to sit for 5 minutes. To generate foam, vigorously shake test tube for 15 seconds and
allow to stand 15 seconds. A completely foam-free surface indicates no foam-producing
impurities. Refer to the foaming test instructions in AEB-26.

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11. Repeat steps 9 and 10 if detergent foam is still present. Drain and refill system with very pure
water when the VED and transmitter water lines are both clean.
12. Remove, clean, and replace filter before using.

Flushing the Klystron Water Lines

CPI VEDs are shipped with their water passages clean and dry. It is good engineering practice to
flush all cooling passages before installing the device. VEDs that have been in service for some
time will develop scale on the collector. Contaminated water also contributes to dirty water lines.
The following back flushing procedure is suggested for units having contaminated water lines,
corrosion, scale, or blocked passages:
1. Remove Hansen-type input water fitting and add a straight pipe extension, approximately 1
or 2 inches long, to the VED.
2. Attach a hose to this fitting, securing with a hose clamp. This is the drain line, which should
be emptied into a convenient outlet.
3. On some VED models, the normal body-cooling output line is fed to the base of the
Vapotron® boiler.
4. Remove hose at base of Vapotron boiler without damaging this fitting, as it must remain
usable and capable of being tightly sealed.
5. Attach an extension pipe 2 or 3 inches long that will fit the small hose at one end and a
garden hose at the other end. Secure with hose clamps.
6. Connect garden hose to a tap-water faucet; hot tap water is preferable.
7. Back flush the klystron body cooling passages for 10 or 15 minutes at full pressure until
clean.
8. Reconnect input and output water lines to klystron.
9. If scale is present on the Vapotron collector, a solution of trisodium phosphate should be
used for the first cleaning. This should be performed on a clean transmitter water system.
10. Connect klystron to transmitter water lines and fill system with hot tap water and non-
sudsing detergent, as indicated on the directions.
11. Operate the water system for 15 minutes. Make sure water level completely covers the
collector core.
12. Drain and flush system for 30 minutes or until no detergent foam is present.
13. Remove and clean filter element.
14. Fill system with very pure water.
15. Drain system water, and refill with very pure water.

Cleaning Water Lines

If there is heavy scaling on the Vapotron collector and/or blocked water passages, consult CPI
for cleaning recommendations.
Chlorine present in tap water is harmful to the klystron water passages. Thorough flushing with
deionized water will remove all traces of chlorine. Never use tap water for final refill or for
makeup water.
Flushing and Cleaning Magnet Water Lines
The magnet water lines may be flushed and cleaned in the same manner as described for the
VED.

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Other Cleanliness Issues
The sight glass and float of the water-flow indicators must also be kept clean to achieve efficient
system operation. The water-flow indicators usually become contaminated during use, and this
contamination collects on the sight glass and float, making the readouts difficult to see. If too
much contamination is present on the glass and float, they may stick and produce an erroneous
reading. The detergent and cleaning solutions may not remove all of this contamination. If this is
the case, the flow meter must be removed and cleaned and the glass surface brushed.

2.4. Cleaning and replacing out lets, strainers, pump screens and filters

???????????????????????????

The irrigation pumps are usually manually controlled whereas the drainage station is frequently
float controlled to ensure automatic starting once drainage levels in the scheme begin to rise
above a pre-set level. A manual operator should also be on call even with an automatic control.

Operation and maintenance tasks for electric pump stations are comparatively simple, those for
diesel operated a little more complex. The operators must be given clear instructions on safety
measures, on the methods of starting the pump motors and the way in which they must be
brought into full operation. Electric motors sometimes require to be stepped up in speed
manually at a strictly controlled rate. Also canals may be damaged if all pumps come rapidly into
full operation.

They must also be given a programme of irrigation quantities to be pumped i.e. 1, 2 or 3 etc.
pumps to be operating. Where 24 hour pumping is not provided, account must be taken of the
rate of rise and fall of canal levels in the irrigated area. It is of little use with a 12 hour pumping
schedule if canals do not fill up until late in the morning and still remain full long after dark.

In case of an emergency, there must be some system for easy communication between the pump
house operator and the officer in charge - either telephone or signal or runner.

Here are some tips how to maintain the system;

1. Observing and if necessary cleaning the water tank before every irrigation as well as
possible. Filling the tank only when it is clean.
2. Observing and if necessary cleaning the filter before every irrigation and if necessary during
irrigation.
3. Checking for clogged drippers and replacing them by in-line drippers. (Or using connectors
to connect pipe section of 10 cm with dripper.)
4. Opening the drip laterals and flushing it after the last irrigation and before the next first
irrigation.
5. In case of leakage, fixing the leaking fitting or replacing it.

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2.5. Visually inspecting system for leaks, operating faults and dry areas, and recording
observations in the maintenance book.
The following questions will help you inspect an irrigation system and correct many of the problems you
find. The result should be substantial water savings for you and your community. Note that some
communities, water utilities, and businesses offer landscape water audits for those who want this service.
Step 1. Examine the condition and type of irrigation heads. Make regular checks for damaged or missing
spray heads and leaking lines. Are there heads that spray a hard surface or that leave part of the landscape
without water? Are any nozzles clogged? Are irrigation heads buried by surrounding grass or other plant
growth? Twist to raise or if necessary dig out and reposition heads on flexible risers (swing pipe), or add
a threaded riser to raise heads on inflexible risers to grade level.
What types of heads are installed? Spray heads deliver the same amount of water in 1/3 the time of rotors.
Rotor heads are well suited to irrigating large turf areas and are rated more efficient than spray heads. Set
a zone with rotor heads to run three times the number of minutes of a spray head zone if the same amount
of water is required on the two landscape locations. The heads on one zone should all be of the same type.
Replace different heads so all the heads within the same zone match.
Step 2. Is the area level or on a slope? Slopes and berms are hard to water efficiently because the water
applied naturally runs off. Nozzles with a lower precipitation rate may be required on slopes in addition to
using cycle and soak applications. Adjust run times on the controller accordingly.
Step 3. Evaluate dry spots. Dry spots may be caused by poor coverage if irrigation heads have been
installed too far apart or not in a recommended square or triangle pattern. Other causes can be low system
water pressure, a plugged nozzle or a south, west or windy exposure.
Step 4. Evaluate wet spots. Wet areas may be due to normal system drainage—draining of water to the
lowest point (head) in a zone after the zone shuts off. Wet spots could also be present in north-facing
exposures or shaded areas that are over-irrigated. However, a leaky valve that causes constant seepage out
to the heads is like a dripping indoor faucet. Open the valve box and either replace worn diaphragms in
the solenoid valves, or with sealed units, replace the entire valve.
Step 5. Is the exposure full sun, shade, southwest slope, or something else? Adjust run times on the
controller accordingly. A shady or northern exposure will likely require 1/2 the water of a level, sunny
landscape. A south or west-facing slope may require two times the water of a level landscape area that is
in full sun.
Step 6. What type of plants are being grown? Group plants with similar water requirements together and
water appropriately. An established border of medium to low water-using shrubs require less irrigation
than bluegrass turf or a vegetable garden.
Step 7. Calculate precipitation rates and determine run times to set the controller. If you are unsure or
need to confirm the manufacturer’s ratings of how much water spray heads deliver per hour (precipitation
rate), follow these steps. Place four identical, straight-sided cans between irrigation heads in a zone.
Operate the zone for 15 minutes. Pour water from three of the cans into the fourth. Use a rule and
measure, in inches, the depth of water collected in can four. Because each can represents 15 minutes or
one-quarter hour of collection time, the total water in the fourth can represents four times 15 minutes or
one hour of collection. Therefore, the water measured in can four is the sprinkler precipitation rate in
inches per hour for that zone.
To convert precipitation rates to minutes of run time for a zone, divide the water you want to apply in
inches (ET) by the precipitation rate calculated in inches per hour, and multiply by 60 minutes per hour.
The result is the run time in minutes for setting the controller.

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2.6. Maintaining operation area in a clean and safe condition and OHS procedures

Site maintenance
1) The job site shall be kept in a neat, clean, and orderly condition at all times during the
installation process.
2) All scrap and excess materials are to be regularly removed from the site and not buried in
trenches.
3) Trenching, laying pipe and backfilling shall be continuous so that the amount of open
trench at the end of each work day is minimized. Any open trench or other excavations
shall be barricaded and marked with high visibility flagging tape.

Self-Check 2 Written Test

Name: _________________________ Date: _______________

Directions: Answer all the questions listed below. Illustrations may be necessary to aid
some explanations/answers.

1. Write some of the maintenance activities carried out in a pressurized irrigation system? (5 pts)
2. Write how you could flush and clean supply and distribution systems? (5 pts)
3. List the steps you use to inspect for leaks, operating faults and dry areas? (1o pts)

Note: Satisfactory rating - 15 points Unsatisfactory - below 15 points

You can ask your teacher for the copy of the correct answers

17
 Information Sheet-3 Maintaining system components
This Information Sheet is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the following
content coverage and topics:-
 Carry out system maintenance at scheduled times using equipment and materials in accordance
with enterprise standards and manufacturers specifications.
 Inspect Parts for wear or blockage and reported or replaced according to enterprise guidelines.
 Remove and clean Outlets and damaged ones are reassembled and replaced according to
manufacturer’s specifications.
 Maintain operation area in a clean and safe condition, and OHS procedures are followed.
MAINTAINING SYSTEM COMPONENTS
The irrigation network is perhaps the most costly element of an irrigation scheme and is designed to last a
long time. However, all too often one finds that irrigation schemes not long constructed bear little
resemblance to the original construction and design. Silt deposition, weed infestation, malfunctioning of
structures and other undesirable situations make it practically impossible to control the flow in these
canals. As a result, the system is unable to deliver the necessary water and distribute it equitably. It is not
surprising that farmers working in those irrigation schemes sometimes feel frustrated because they know
the potential benefits of irrigation and yet cannot realize their expectations.

On the other hand, there are many examples illustrating that with proper maintenance and cooperation
among farmers in this task, irrigation systems may last much longer than their original designers or
constructors ever envisaged. Irrigation schemes that have been in operation for centuries can be found in
Spain, Egypt, Italy, Pakistan and other countries, and are a living testimony that properly maintained
irrigation schemes can be of permanent benefit to many generations.

There are several reasons for poor maintenance: just to mention the most important:
 Insufficient funds made available to the management;
 Lack of interest by the farmers in participating or collaborating in the maintenance work;
 Poor organization of the work.

Types of maintenance
There are three main types of maintenance, namely:
 Routine or normal maintenance which includes all work necessary to keep the irrigation system
functioning satisfactorily and is normally done annually;
 Special maintenance including repairs of damage caused by major disasters, such as floods,
earthquakes and typhoons.
 Deferred maintenance including any work necessary to regain the lost flow capacity in canals,
reservoirs and structures when compared to the original design. It often includes large modifications
to the canal system and structures arising from important changes (cropping patterns, drainage
problems, etc.) that have occurred in an irrigation scheme.

3.1. Carrying out System maintenance at scheduled times

In order to be able to formulate a maintenance program, the following steps must be taken:
I. Make an inventory of all the works that require maintenance;
II. Determine the volume of maintenance activities to be undertaken annually;
III. Establish the optimum cycle of maintenance for each type of work;
IV. Determine the machinery and manpower requirements to undertake the maintenance;
V. Budgeting and establishing the maintenance priorities.

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The optimum cycle of maintenance is the time that can safely elapse between two consecutive
maintenance operations of a constructed element (canal, road, drain, etc.) without that element
failing and disrupting the efficient operation of the whole. A certain degree of malfunctioning
(10-20 percent reduction in absolute efficiency with respect to the design) is normally acceptable
between the two consecutive maintenance operations.

3.2. Inspecting parts for wear or blockage and reporting or replacing according to
enterprise guidelines

The following points will help you inspect an irrigation system for wear or blockage and correct
many of the problems you find. The result should be substantial water savings for you and your
community. Note that some communities, water utilities, and businesses offer landscape water
audits for those who want this service.

 Examine the condition and type of irrigation heads. Make regular checks for blocked,
damaged or missing spray heads and leaking lines.

 Slopes and breams are hard to water efficiently because the water applied naturally runs
off. Nozzles with a lower precipitation rate may be required on slopes in addition to using
cycle and soak applications.
 Evaluate dry spots. Dry spots may be caused by poor coverage if irrigation heads have
been installed too far apart or not in a recommended square or triangle pattern. Other
causes can be low system water pressure, a plugged nozzle or a south, west or windy
exposure.

 Evaluate wet spots. Wet areas may be due to normal system drainage—draining of water
to the lowest point (head) in a zone after the zone shuts off. However, a leaky valve that
causes constant seepage out to the heads is like a dripping indoor faucet. Open the valve
box and either replace worn diaphragms in the solenoid valves, or with sealed units,
replace the entire valve.]

 Adjust run times on the controller accordingly. A shady or northern exposure will likely
require 1/2 the water of a level, sunny landscape. A south or west-facing slope may
require two times the water of a level landscape area that is in full sun.

3.3. Removing and cleaning outlets and reassembling and replacing damaged ones

??????????????????????????

3.4. Maintaining operation area in a clean and safe condition, and following OHS
procedures

19
Site maintenance
1) The job site shall be kept in a neat, clean, and orderly condition at all times during the installation
process.
2) All scrap and excess materials are to be regularly removed from the site and not buried in
trenches.
3) Trenching, laying pipe and backfilling shall be continuous so that the amount of open trench at
the end of each work day is minimized. Any open trench or other excavations shall be barricaded
and marked with high visibility flagging tape.

Irrigation work sites are expected to be clean, tidy, comfortable, good and well maintained to create
conducive environment for work.
Cleanliness is the most essential elements in maintaining a healthy and safe work environment. Not only
does a clean workplace reflect the professionalism of a business or facility and help motivate employees,
it also promotes a healthy workforce as a clean environment prevents accidents and the spread of germs.
Many office managers strive to maintain a clear work site policy, few succeed. However, each employee
Like Health & Safety, maintaining a clean work environment is the responsibility of everyone. However,
there is only so much cleaning the team can do during each shift and in such cost conscious times it
makes sense for employees to adopt some simple good housekeeping practices and allow the cleaning
team to concentrate on hygiene and deep cleaning tasks.

Self-Check 3 Written Test

Name: _________________________ Date: _______________

Directions: Answer all the questions listed below. Illustrations may be necessary to aid
some explanations/answers.

1. List the three main types of maintenance? (5 pts)

2. Write how you can maintain operation area? (5pts)
3. How could you clean outlets and remove the damaged ones? (5pts)

Note: Satisfactory rating - 11 points and above Unsatisfactory - below 11 points

You can ask your teacher for the copy of the correct answers

20
 Information Sheet-4 Recording and reporting maintenance activities
This Information Sheet is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the following
content coverage and topics:-
 Record all damage and blockage caused by pests and vermin by damage type, location and the
section of the system affected.
 Record and report, and take action damage or faulty pumps, valves, electrical components and
computer systems to effect repairs.
 Record and report all routine maintenance activities in accordance with enterprise standards.

4.1. Recording all damage and blockage caused by pests and vermin by damage type, location and
the section of the system affected
Each irrigation worker shall maintain any records and make any reports in connection with the
activities as may be required by the conditions or by the rules, regulations, and orders of the
enterprise.

Records which are required by the regulations in this part or by license conditions must be
maintained for a period specified by the appropriate regulations or by license condition.

Records which must be maintained pursuant may be the original or a reproduced copy or a
microform if this reproduced copy or microform is capable of producing copy that is clear and
legible at the end of the required retention period. The record may also be stored in electronic
media with the capability for producing legible, accurate, and complete records during the
required retention period. Records such as letters, drawings, specifications, must include all
pertinent information such as stamps, initials, and signatures.

The reports shall include:

 specification of the quantity of each of the principal damage and blockage caused by
pests and vermin ,
 specification of the quantity of each of the principal location and the section of the
system affected
 a summary of licensee disposal unit survey and maintenance activities,
 a summary, by waste class, of activities and quantities disposed of,
 any instances in which observed site characteristics were significantly different from
those described in the application for a license; and
 Any other information the Commission may require.

4.2. Recording and reporting damage or faulty pumps, valves, electrical components and computer
systems

Damaged or faulty pumps, valves, electrical components, etc in irrigation systems should be recorded and
reported to the supervisor. Maintenance and repair to these damaged parts should also be carried as soon
as possible to avoid leakage and water losses.

21
The record of damaged or faulty pumps, valves, electrical components may also be stored in
electronic media with the capability for producing legible, accurate, and complete records during
the required retention period. Records such as letters, drawings, specifications, must include all
pertinent information such as stamps, initials, and signatures.

The reports on damaged or faulty pumps, valves, electrical components shall include:
 specification of the quantity of each of the principal damage and blockage
 specification of the quantity of each of the principal location and the section of the
system affected
 a summary of maintenance activities,
 a summary, by waste class, of activities and quantities disposed of,
 any instances in which observed site characteristics were significantly different from
those described in the application for a license; and
 any other information the Commission may require

4.3. Recording and reporting all routine maintenance activities

The record on routine maintenance activities of pressurized irrigation systems includes at least
the following operations:
 a record on light deforestation on the system
 a record weed control in the canal section
 a record on seeding grass in the canal section
 a record on maintenance of flow gauges and other measuring devices
 a record on removal of silt
 a record on maintenance of pumping stations where water cannot be evacuated by
gravity.

After completing the records, a report has to be submitted to authorized personnel for corrective
measures.

Self-Check 4 Written Test

Name: _________________________ Date: _______________

Directions: Answer all the questions listed below. Illustrations may be necessary to aid
some explanations/answers.
1) Write how you could record damage and blockage caused by pests and vermin? (5 pts).
2) Write how you could report damage or faulty pumps, valves, electrical components and
computer systems? (5pts).
3) Write how you could report routine maintenance activities? (5pts).

Note: Satisfactory rating - 11 points and above Unsatisfactory - below 11 points

22
 You can ask your teacher for the copy of the correct answers

Operation Sheet
Collect GPS data

The CD in your possession contains the following topics -

 User’s manual - contains the instructions in order to rise and lower equipment to climber using safe working
procedures and rope handling techniques.
 General Guide - outlines how to carry out Maintain a clear work site during operation s. guide how to store
Tools, equipment and machinery clear of debris and the drop zone and how to place Rescue equipment
within easy access
 Technical manual - contains the instructions in order to provide ground support for tree climbers during
operations. It also provides the detailed descriptions of tools and equipments and their functions.
 Technical Reference - contains the activities of provision of ground support for tree climbers during
operations. It also provides information on the operations carried out.
 GPS 500 - contains 8 subtopics that discuss the use of Leica Geosystem GPS System 500 and 300 which
are the present GPS equipment and software used for GPS surveying.
 Format Manager - guide in using the Format Manager software in creating format files that can be used with
GPS system. A format file is quite simply a “mask” or “filter” which allows surveyed GPS data to be
exported in any format as an ASCII text file.
 GPS Basic - introduces the GPS and describes how it works in surveying including the geodetic aspects of
the system.
 Ski-Pro - contains lessons in using the Ski-Pro software for GPS surveying including post-processing and
support of real-time measurements such as downloading coordinates recorded in the field.
 General Guide - outlines how to carry out static and rapid static GPS Surveys.
 Real Time - describes how to use the real-time technique in surveying.
 Static and Kinematic - describe how these two GPS processes should be performed.
 User’s manual - contains the instructions in order to operate the GPS System 500. It also provides the
detailed descriptions of the software/hardware settings and functions.
 Technical Reference - contains the application of GPS in land surveys including setting up and configuring
the GPS equipment. It also provides information on the maintenance of the GPS System 500.

LAP Test Practical Demonstration

Name: _____________________________ Date: ________________

Time started: ________________________ Time finished: ________________

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Instructions:

1. You are required to perform any of the following:

1.1. Request your teacher to arrange for you to join a survey team. Make sure you survey an area
using the GPS survey process. Submit your outputs to your teacher for evaluation.

1.2. Request a set of survey instruments and ancillary equipment, then perform the following tasks in front of
your teacher –
 Operate GPS equipment
 Collect and relate point positional data to a reference system
 record data from the survey instrument
 Apply basic methods to improve the accuracy of GPS point positioning
 Follow OHS requirements

2. Request your teacher for evaluation and feedback

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