If you're working on sites where the primary water source
is lakes, ponds, streams or effluent, it's very likely that
you deal with "dirty" water. Since the dirt and
debris from this kind of water can choke an irrigation system,
picking the right equipment is vital—and nowhere is
this more vital than in the selection of the correct remote-control
valves.
When you select a remote-control valve for a dirty water
application, make sure it has filtration features incorporated
into the valve by the manufacturer. This is a very important
, because not all valves have filters and
the area on top of the valve diaphragm and the solenoid area
is extremely susceptible to damage from fine particles of
dirt and debris. The best method for filtration manufacturers
employ to prevent dirt from contaminating the valve and interrupting
operation is the "self-flushing" screen.
A filter or screen that is self-flushing prevents water containing
dirt and debris from entering the top of the diaphragm and
the solenoid. Located on the bottom of a valve's diaphragm
or inserted into the side of the valve body with a tube connected
to the base of the solenoid, the screen or filter positioned
in the stream of water running through the body of the valve.
The water flow continuously flushes the filter screen, dislodging
particles and debris before they can accumulate and clog the
filter.
One manufacturer's valve, which is particularly effective
in dirty water, is the Rain Bird series of scrubber valves.
This series of unique valves have a scrubbing action, which
occurs every time the valve is opened and closed. The fingers
of the plastic scrubber removes dirt and debris by scraping
the stainless steel filter screen clean as it moves up and
down with the diaphragm. The action constantly breaks down
debris to prevent build-up and clogging.
For more information on valve selection for dirty water applications,
contact Rain Bird Technical Services at (800)247-3782.
