FAQ's

Can I import and export CAD or SIG files from IrrigatePlus?

IrrigatePlus can export the layout of the network directly in .dxf format, including each area irrigated by sprinkler.

In order to import from CAD or SIG, these files will have to be converted to .INP format using one of the available free programs compatible with Epanet (see www.irrigateplus.com Epanet - Complementary applications)

Can I generate a list of the materials used in the project?

Irrigateplus allows for the listing of the materials used, exporting it to a spreadsheet in an easy way (see www.irrigateplus.com - Videos - Create List of Materials).

How can I model the connection to the supply network?

In most cases (midsized and small gardens), the supply network keeps a constant pressure for the flow demand caused by irrigation. Therefore, the connection to the network can be modeled as a reservoir located at a certain height (m) equivalent to the pressure at the connection point (m.c.a.).

Can I calculate pumping systems and its energy consumption?

With IrrigatePlus it's possible to add pumps of constant or variable speed, just by defining the specific curve of the pump (ratio between flow and height).

To calculate the energy consumption, it's necessary to define the specific performance curve (%/flow) of the pump and the price of KW/hour.

Can I add valves?

IrrigatePlus can define the following types of valves:

- Pressure Reducing Valves (PRV)

- Pressure Sustaining Valves (PSV)

- Pressure Balance Valves (PBV)

- Flow Control Valve (FCV)

- Throttle Control Valves (TCV)

- General Purpose Valves (GPV)

Opening and shut-off valves (solenoid valves) are not considered independent elements and are included as part of the pipe.

Can I work with different commercial catalogs?

IrrigatePlus can load (in its paid version) the sprinklers and sprayheads from the main manufactures on the market.

This makes the task of designing much easier, since it's not necessary to search through the tables of commercial catalogs in order to define the flow, wetting radius or precipitation of each sprinkler.

How do I define driplines?

Driplines can be calculated entering, in the node element, the flow data of each dripper, or by unifying all drippers that form a line in one unique node of equal flow to the total sum of all drippers.

The diameter of the pipes with drippers is defined by the manufacturer based on the space between drippers, the flow and the length of the line. Therefore it's recommended to only define the pipes up to the junction with the driplines.

Can I create reports with the results of the simulation?

IrrigatePlus simplifies the post-processing of results by generating charts, maps, tables and reports. Its visualization tools show the irrigated area for each sector and for each point of time, making the task of designing much easier.

How long does it take to learn IrrigatePlus?

IrrigatePlus is easy and intuitive, therefore a few hours are enough to learn the main design tools. At the same time, there is a free version of IrrigatePlus (without commercial catalog) to help in its use and to gain exposure.

Another advantage of IrrigatePlus is that, since it's based on Epanet, there are plenty of resources available, including help menus, tutorials, documents, training courses, forums, etc.