Dimensional analysis-based head loss calculation for the micro-pressure filtering and washing tank

Abstract

Filtering is an important measure for the prevention of emitter clogging in micro-irrigation systems. Head loss and energy consumption are two problems in pressurized irrigation systems. Therefore, a combined filtration device – micro-pressure filtering and washing tank – was designed. In this study, the micro-pressure filtering and washing tank was taken as the research object, and a physical model test of inlet flow and sediment concentration was carried out. The head loss prediction model of the micro-pressure filtering and washing tank under clean water and muddy water conditions was established by dimensional and multiple regression analyses, and the determination coefficients (R2) were 0.987 and 0.953, respectively. In addition, the test data were used to validate the head loss prediction model for muddy water. The average relative error of the predicted values was 3.36%, suggesting that the proposed models are ideal for head loss prediction. The research results can provide technical support for the structure optimization and filtration mechanism of the micro-pressure filtering and washing tank, and enrich the theory of micro-pressure filtration. HIGHLIGHTS A low-energy combination filtration unit was designed.; Dimensional analysis was used to build the calculation equations for the head loss with clean water and muddy water, and the effects of filter construction, screen and fluid characteristics on head loss were considered.; The predicted and measured head losses of the micro-pressure filtering and washing tank were compared, the predictive models had high regression coefficients, and the average relative error of the predicted values was 3.36%.;

Keywords

• filtration
• irrigation systems
• multiple regression analysis
• physical model tests
• prediction models