Nozzle structure optimisation in a photovoltaic irrigation system

Abstract On the basis of the significant impact of the sprinkler nozzle structure in photovoltaic irrigation systems, the nozzle parameters are optimised to improve sprinkler adaptability and irrigation uniformity under different light intensities. An experimental test and numerical simulation were conducted to analyse the influence of nozzles with distinct parameters on the spray irrigation effect. Taking the irrigation uniformity coefficient as the optimisation goal and the nozzle outlet shape, outlet area and straight flow channel length as the optimisation variables, an orthogonal experimental design was employed, and the optimal solution was obtained via range analysis. The experimental results indicate that the sprinkler performs best when the outlet shape is circular, the nozzle outlet area is 7 mm 2 and the flow channel length is 2 mm. The optimal nozzle characteristics were tested and compared with those of the original design, and numerical simulation was used to demonstrate the optimised internal flow mechanism. The results demonstrate that the optimised flow rate and spray range are improved, and the working pressure and rotation period are significantly reduced, enabling the system to adapt to a more extensive range of light intensities. The radial water distribution structure is better, and the combined application rate and uniformity coefficient are also significantly improved. In addition, the sprinkler outlet speed is more consistent, and the area of the high‐speed zone in the spray plate increases, which is conducive to reducing energy loss and enhancing sprinkler irrigation uniformity.