Pressure Monitoring in Irrigation Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Pressure Monitoring in Irrigation Systems Solution measure pipeline pressure from an operational standpoint?

The Pressure Monitoring in Irrigation Systems Solution uses a direct-threaded, media-isolated 316L stainless steel piezoresistive pressure sensing element connected directly to a pressurized pipe tapping point via a standard process thread (such as G 1/4" or NPT). As water flows through the line, fluid pressure acts upon the isolated stainless steel diaphragm, producing a proportional electrical signal. The internal processor digitizes this reading, applies calibrated scale factors, packages the telemetry into an encrypted payload, and broadcasts it wirelessly via LoRaWAN® or NB-IoT/LTE-M to the Ellenex Software Platform.

How do I install the Pressure Monitoring in Irrigation Systems Solution onto a center pivot or drip irrigation line?

Installation is fast and requires no complex electrical wiring or local software setup. Field technicians thread the IP68 direct-threaded sensor head directly into an existing test port, pipe saddle, or manifold tapping point. The IP65 UV-stabilized transmitter enclosure is mounted securely to a nearby pipe riser, support frame, or post using standard bracketry. Once turned on via its internal switch, the factory pre-configured device automatically connects to the wireless network and starts streaming live pressure readings to your Ellenex Software Platform account.

How does line pressure tracking detect clogged filter banks or failing booster pumps?

Clogged filter media causes a measurable pressure drop across the filtration bank, while a failing pump impeller leads to a gradual decline in discharge head pressure. By installing pressure sensors upstream and downstream of filter banks or directly at pump outlets, the Ellenex Software Platform tracks pressure differentials in real time. If the downstream pressure drops below normal operational curves relative to the inlet, the platform flags the trend as a filter blockage, alerting farm managers to schedule cleaning before crop watering is degraded.

How are farm managers alerted on the Ellenex Software Platform if a main pipe bursts or a line blocks?

The Ellenex Software Platform features a multi-channel dynamic alerting engine. Users can establish dynamic upper limits (for pipe blockages or dead-headed pumps) and lower threshold boundaries (for main line bursts or open blow-off valves). If an irrigation pipe fractures and pressure drops suddenly, the platform dispatches automated alerts via SMS, email, or mobile app push notifications, enabling farm crews to shut off pumps remotely or close isolation valves immediately.

Which process thread sizes and pressure ranges are available for the Pressure Monitoring in Irrigation Systems Solution?

The solution supports process connection sizes including standard G 1/4" (1/4" BSPP male) or NPT threads. Pressure measurement ranges are configurable across wide operational spans, including 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 400, 700, and 1000 bar (or custom equivalent pressure ranges in PSI or kPa), making it adaptable for shallow drip lines as well as high-pressure main supply pipelines.

Which wireless option is recommended for vast agricultural properties with weak cellular signals?

The Pressure Monitoring in Irrigation Systems Solution is offered in two LPWAN options: LoRaWAN® (-L) and Cellular LPWAN (-N) supporting NB-IoT and LTE Cat-M1. For expansive farms, orchards, or remote pastoral properties where mobile phone coverage is weak or inconsistent, the LoRaWAN variant (-L) is ideal. It transmits encrypted signals over sub-GHz frequencies to a central, solar-powered Ellenex Outdoor Gateway installed at the farm office or elevated shed. For properties with reliable cellular footprints, the Cellular variant (-N) connects directly to mobile towers without requiring local gateway hardware.

What routine maintenance is required for the device during continuous field operation?

The device is engineered for virtually maintenance-free operation in rugged farm environments. It is powered by an internal, replaceable 3.6V Lithium (LiSOCl2) primary battery and managed by ultra-low-power firmware, eliminating the need for external power wiring or solar panel maintenance. Configured on the Ellenex Software Platform for standard agricultural transmission intervals (such as 15-minute or 1-hour updates), the internal battery delivers an operational field lifespan of up to 10 years before requiring replacement.