Step 1
VISUALIZE THE GREENHOUSE
Evaluate the location of obstacles such as curtains or hanging baskets. Consider aisles and whether they can be wetted. Review cultural practices which might impact the height at which the sprinklers should be placed.
Step 2
SELECT THE SPRINKLER HEAD
Choose the SpinNet or VibroNet Sprinkler and Check Valve Head Assembly for your application. All sprinkler solutions are based on an average sprinkler working pressure of 30 psi and spacing between the sprinklers of three feet. Check Valve with purple pin opens at 28 psi.
Step 3
SELECT THE SPRINKLER BASE
Netafim offers a selection of three bases to connect the sprinkler to the supply line.
- ½” Adapter – used for connection to rigid pipe
- Retrofit Adapter – connects Netafim sprinklers to other manufacturer’s fittings
- Hanging Sprinkler Assembly – choose length based on your application (see available options under the Ordering Tab). An extension tubing piece for creating longer lengths is optional. The Hanging Assembly connects to the Polyethylene (PE) Tubing Supply Line and the SpinNet or VibroNet Sprinkler Head and Check Valve.
Step 4
SIZE THE SPRINKLER SUPPLY PIPE
Use the Poly Pipe Sizing chart to select the correct sprinkler supply pipe size. Low density polyethylene is strongly recommended.
Step 5
SIZE THE DISTRIBUTOR AND MAINLINE
The remaining piping and system components are sized based upon the maximum flow they will receive. Use the FLOW PER SPRINKLER LINE chart to determine the flow of a single sprinkler supply pipe for the length of run in your design. If more than one sprinkler line will be operated at once, be sure to multiply the flow by the number of lines when sizing the system pipes and components. Pipe size recommendations are guidelines only. For distributor lines over 40 ft., mainlines over 100 ft. or when slopes are a factor, please consult a design professional.
Step 6
SIZE THE CONTROL HEAD COMPONENTS
The components should be sized according to the flow range shown in the Filter, Valve and Pressure Regulator Sizing chart. The pipe connecting to the components can be of a different size.
Step 7
STARTING UP A SYSTEM FOR THE FIRST TIME
The most important point to remember when starting up a new system is to flush the mainlines. Debris from construction can otherwise be washed into the sprinklers, resulting in plugging or improper operation. To properly flush a system, first connect all the pipes and hanging assemblies, except the Sprinklers with the Check Valves. Next, open the ends of the distributor line and the sprinkler supply pipes. Close them off, one by one, starting with the opening closest to the head control, and proceeding to the most distant opening. Only after complete flushing should the Sprinklers with Check Valves be attached to the hanging assemblies.