This section provides an overview for sprinklers as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 25 sprinkler manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked sprinkler companies as of October, 2024: 1.DripWorks, 2.Victaulic Company, 3.Chapin International, Inc..
Table of Contents
Sprinklers are devices that are connected to a water source with a hose or pipe and use water pressure to spray water in droplets over a wide area.
Some sprinklers are capable of spraying solutions mixed with fertilizers or pesticides. Generally, sprinklers are installed outdoors on the ground, but in greenhouses and buildings, there are various types, such as ceiling-mounted or suspended sprinklers.
Sprinklers are widely used for irrigating crops, fruit trees, lawns, plants, and green curtains; spraying pesticides; and cooling vinyl greenhouses, barns, buildings, and barn roofs by spraying water. Other uses include firefighting, where sprinklers originated, dust control at various stadiums and work sites, snow melting on railroad tracks, and bait sprinklers in the fishing industry.
The advantage of sprinklers is that they can sprinkle water over large areas or slopes that are difficult to move without much effort. Additionally, even though they are inferior to drip irrigation, they can effectively irrigate small amounts of water in the form of rain or mist-like droplets, making it easier for plants to absorb water.
The disadvantage of sprinklers is that they can be affected by wind, especially outdoors. Another drawback is that the amount of water applied can be uneven depending on the location.
Rotating Type
There are two types: the full-circle type, which rotates 360 degrees to sprinkle water, and the fan type, which can sprinkle water on only a part of it. The impact type is installed on the ground, and the arm flaps around due to water pressure. It is the most common type, has the widest range of uses, and is available in a wide variety of types.
The pop-up type is used for lawns, roadside green belts, plantings, etc., and is installed embedded in the soil. They lift and spray water underwater pressure only when in operation, can be used at low pressure, are light and compact, structurally simple, and have the advantage of being trouble-free. Rain gun-type sprinklers are characterized by their ability to sprinkle water over a large area, such as a large stadium or factory.
Other types include the ball drive type, in which a ball inside the sprinkler moves with the water flow, and the piston type, in which a piston built into the main body rotates to spray water more evenly than the impact type.
Swivel Type
This type of water sprayer moves in a linear, repetitive motion forward and backward (left and right) to spray water evenly in a rectangular shape.
Mist Fountain Type
Spraying water in the form of mist, this type is used for sprinkling water on lawns and for cool mist showers.
Tubular
A drip tube is also called a drip tube. It is placed directly on the ground.
Widely used in agriculture and other fields. The watering range is 1 to 3 m wide, but care must be taken to avoid twisting the tube, which not only prevents watering but can also cause damage. Also, the durability is not good, and the watering holes may widen due to deterioration.
Watering distances range from about 1 meter for sprinkler tubes to more than 25 meters for large rain guns. Pressures range from as low as 0.3 MPa to as high as 0.4 to 0.7 MPa.
The angle between the ground and the watering nozzle is called the elevation angle, which is most widely used in agriculture and ranges from 23 to 27 degrees. For watering trees and roofs, the angle is 10 degrees or less. Conversely, a high elevation angle of 40 degrees or more may be used for watering slopes and dust prevention at various work sites. Variable elevation angle types are also available.
The most common materials are metal, which is durable, and resin, which is often used in smaller types. Resin is less durable than metal, but engineering plastics are as strong and durable as metal. In agriculture, riser pipes (rising pipes) are sometimes connected to accommodate crop height.
It is important to choose a sprinkler by following these steps:
Sprinkler catalogs indicate performance charts, but if you are installing large equipment, you can consult with a contractor for a quote. The amount of water needed depends on the crop. For example, in the case of seedling cultivation, care should be taken not to apply too much water, as it will damage the seedlings.
For large areas, such as several hectares, a rotating impact type or a pop-up type that can spray water over a wide area with a watering distance of 20 meters or more is useful. For home flower beds and small vegetable gardens, a small type with a watering distance of 5m or less or a spray or tube type will suffice. If there is a ceiling, such as in a plastic greenhouse, it is necessary to devise a way to prevent the water from hitting the ceiling before use.
Sprinklers are not only for fixed installation but also for one-touch detachable types or those that can be hand-held or installed on a vehicle to sprinkle water while moving. The more manual element requires less budget, but the more labor and time it takes. It is important to choose a sprinkler that fits your purpose and budget.
Sprinklers should be checked for damage or clogged nozzles before installation. If the sprinkler is to be installed over a large area, it is a good idea to draw up a layout plan. It is recommended that a filter be installed between the water source and the sprinkler to prevent clogging of the sprinkler.
Automatic water sprinkling is also possible by setting a timer to open the water source. When mixing fertilizers or other chemicals in the water, a liquid fertilizer mixer should be installed between the sprinkler and the water source. Furthermore, if the water pressure from the water source is too high, a pressure-reducing valve may be connected between the sprinkler and the sprinkler.
If the water pressure from the water source is strong enough, many sprinklers can be operated at once, but if the water pressure is low, partial sprinkler operation will result in sequential water spraying. Even within the sprinkler's range, the amount of water sprayed is often somewhat uneven from place to place, so care must be taken in placement to ensure a uniform amount of water is sprayed.
Furthermore, since sprinklers are affected by wind, the effective sprinkler distance should be approximately 60-80% of the sprinkler distance, and the sprinkler spacing should be determined. It is also important to slowly close the plug after use to prevent damage due to water hammer action.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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DripWorks, established in 1992 and based in California, United States, is a manufacturer of drop irritation supplies and equipment. The company produces other products such as Irrigation kits, bird supplies, greenhouses, EPDM rubber pond liners, and Sprayers. All the products manufactured are supplied to residential, commercial, and agricultural clients and used for turf maintenance, irrigation, and landscape lighting. Various irrigation products such as drip systems, controllers, valves, and sprinklers are used in agriculture, landscape, and greenhouse applications.
Chapin International, Inc. is an American ISO 9001 certified manufacturer of sprayers and spreaders established in 1884 and headquartered in Batavia, New York. The company's products include salt, seed, and turf spreaders, as well as ATV and tow sprayers, drip irrigation kits, and irrigation devices such as dual zone water timers. These are used for controlled and even distribution of nutrients, pesticides, or cleaners. The company primarily serves farmers, landscapers, construction contractors, and private homeowners.
Nelson Irrigation was founded in 1972 and is a manufacturer of irrigation products and systems based in Washington, USA. The company offers a wide range of products and solutions designed to improve water efficiency and the effectiveness of irrigation systems. Its product line includes sprinklers, control valves, and other agricultural and landscape irrigation components. The company develops cutting-edge technologies that enhance irrigation practices, and its products often incorporate advanced features for efficient water distribution. The company's irrigation solutions cater to agricultural and landscape applications, providing solutions for large-scale farming operations and maintaining lawns, gardens, and green spaces.
Victaulic Co. of America, established in 1919, and headquartered in Easton, Pennsylvania, USA is a global manufacturer of of mechanical pipe joining solutions. The company offers a broad array of products catering to various industries, and some examples include rigid couplings, fittings, grooved installation-ready fittings, rigid couplings for stainless steel (StrengThin 100 Style E497), and cast carbon steel flexible couplings. These solutions effectively address complex piping challenges encountered by engineers, site owners, contractors, and distributors.
Drip Depot Inc. is a supplier of DIY drip irrigation products, founded in 2004 and located in Industrial Circle, White City, OR. The product categories are drip irrigation, landscape lighting, misting equipment, and irrigation instruments for nurseries, orchards, pastures, vineyards, and lawns. It also produces accessories like faucet connectors, garden hoses, grow bags, hand pumps, and raised beds. The DIY procedures include hot water for tubing, placing tubing in the sun, punching holes in tubings, controlling your water, and installing timers.
Melnor Inc. is a distributor of lawn and garden products established in 1946 and headquartered in Virginia, USA. The company emphasizes providing watering and irrigation solutions with various products, including hose nozzles, sprinklers, hose connectors, water timers, and other related accessories. The company also offers garden tools and accessories to make lawn and garden care more convenient and efficient. Its products are in various applications, including residential lawns, gardens, landscaping, and other outdoor spaces. Emphasizing on sustainability and water conservation, the company provides solutions that promote efficient water usage and responsible irrigation practices.
HD Fire Protect Pvt. Ltd, established in 1983 and headquartered in Maharashtra, India, is a manufacturer of firefighting equipment and systems that specializes in water and foam-based products. The company offers a wide range of products, including monitors, foam systems, firefighting skids, and more. It also offers tank protection systems, including foam chambers, rim seal foam pourers, and other related components. Its foam systems are designed to suppress and extinguish flammable liquid fires. The company has achieved the CRISIL MSE*1 rating by CRISIL. It serves industries such as machinery manufacturing, building materials, and fire protection.
Heation, established in 2019, and located in Norrköping, Sweden, is a manufacturer of industrial water filter in stainless steel. Its product line includes bag filter housing, strainer filter, cyclone filter, inline basket filter, and automatic self-cleaning brush filter, in which these products cater to industries such as water treatment, oil and gas, manufacturing, agriculture, and pharmaceutical. The company's products are used to remove impurities and contaminants from fluids and gases, ensuring product quality, equipment protection, and process efficiency in various industrial applications.
DESMI A/S, established in 1834 and headquartered in Norresundby, Denmark, is a manufacturer specializing in pumps and pumping solutions. The company offers diverse products, including ballast water management systems, helicopter refueling systems, firefighting systems, shock-rated pumps, sprinkler systems, and more. These products are applicable for a range of sectors, including marine and offshore, industry, oil spills, combating defense & fuel, and utility. The company's products follow industry standards with certifications from bodies such as ABS, DNV-GL, RMRS, CCS, and BV.
Hunter Industries, established in 1981, and based in California, USA, is a manufacturer and supplier of residential and commercial irrigation. Their product portfolio includes rotors, AT systems, nozzles, spray bottles, hydras, controllers, sensors, remotes, valves, and accessories. The company offers a range of water-efficient, easy-to-use irrigation solutions for residential, commercial, and golf course applications. The products are used in various industries which include irrigation systems, landscape lighting, and custom molding industries.
Gilmour was launched in 1949 and is a manufacturer of intuitive lawn products that meet the watering and cleaning needs of homeowners. The company's product catalog includes lawn and garden hoses, adjustable sprinklers, mechanical and electronic water timers, connectors, and watering nozzles. It provides repair and maintenance services such as hose repair, tool maintenance, and professional grade. Besides that, the company has a lawn size calculator tool that helps homeowners choose the right equipment for all kinds of spaces.
Nelson has been a manufacturer of outdoor solutions in the USA since 1911. The company operates under the brand of Nelson and primarily provides solutions in watering, irrigation, and landscaping. Its offerings include various products that help individuals and professionals efficiently manage and maintain outdoor spaces, such as lawns and gardens. These products include hose nozzles, sprinklers, hose timers, hose connectors, and other accessories that simplify and enhance outdoor watering and irrigation tasks. Its products are designed to conserve water and provide customizable options for users to tailor landscape care.
Dramm Corporation, established in 1941, is a manufacturer of watering tools and irrigation systems in Wisconsin, USA. The company offers various products, including commercial irrigation systems, chemical application systems, environmental control products, and water management systems. One essential product is the Dramm Rain Wand, a popular tool that allows watering plants without damage and is available in various lengths to cater to specific needs. The company's products suit multiple applications, including residential gardening, commercial horticulture, landscaping, and greenhouse operations.
Rain Bird Corporation has been a manufacturer of irrigation products headquartered in California, USA, since 1933. The company has manufacturing facilities in the United States, China, France, and Mexico. Its offerings include a wide range of irrigation products, including sprinklers, drip irrigation systems, timers, controllers, and other related components. The company also offers various educational resources to help customers learn about water conservation. One sample product is its XFS drip irrigation system. This product is designed to deliver water directly to the roots of plants and is ideal in various applications, including landscaping, gardens, and orchards.
GARDENA, a subsidiary of Husqvarna Group, is a manufacturer and supplier of garden tools and irrigation systems that was established in 1961 and is headquartered in Ulm, Germany. The company produces a wide range of garden tools, including watering cans, hoses, sprinklers, and lawnmowers. Its products, such as Classic Watering Can, Comfort High-Pressure Hose Reel, AquaContour Micro-Drip Irrigation System, and Classic Petrol Lawnmower, are used by a number of homeowners and gardeners, as diverse as watering plants, mowing lawns, and irrigating gardens. The company also provides a range of services, including product support, repair, and maintenance.
Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co. Inc. is perceived as a well-known manufacturer and distributor of fire protection equipment, headquartered in the United States. Its establishment dates back to 1920. A broad array of fire protection products, such as sprinklers, valves, devices, and accessories, are offered by Reliable Automatic Sprinkler. It caters to various industries, including commercial, residential, and industrial clients, and has a global presence across several countries. Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co. Inc. has a proven track record of delivering quality fire protection equipment, making it a trustworthy and reputable enterprise.
Orbit Irrigation, established in 1986, is a manufacturer and distributor of outdoor solutions headquartered in Utah, USA. The company primarily provides various irrigation systems, outdoor lighting, mist cooling systems, and gardening tools. Its essential products are its irrigation systems, such as sprinklers, drip systems, pipes, underground kits, and more. The company's products are designed to be easy to use and install, and offer various resources to help customers choose the right products. One sample product is its Orbit B-hyve smart sprinkler controller, which allows control to an irrigation system from anywhere in the world using a smartphone or tablet.
August Handel GmbH is a supplier of automotive parts, components, and accessories established in 2011 and headquartered in Kleinmachnow, Germany. The company mainly stocks products from the brands RedHotDot, Trommelberg, and C.A.R. Fit Repair. These products include electronics such as onboard navigation and radio systems, maintenance supplies such as repair kits and chamois, and OEM parts such as side mirrors. The company chiefly serves clients in the automotive, tuning garage, and car show industries.
Snow Joe, LLC is an American company that designs, manufactures, and distributes outdoor power tools and equipment. It is headquartered in Hoboken, New Jersey, and was founded in 2004. The company is a digitally native, direct-to-consumer company that designs, develops and distributes outstanding, yet affordable, lawn and garden tools. The company's products include snowblowers, ice chippers, pressure washers, and leaf blowers. Snow Joe also offers many accessories, such as snow thrower blades and pressure washer wands. Its products are sold through several channels, including online retailers, home improvement stores, and independent dealers.
GrowGreen is a gardening tools supplier for watering tools and equipment, including water wands, sprinklers, cans, and nozzles used by home and garden owners. The company’s expandable hose uses pressure-resistant latex material to ensure it does twist or kink, and it expands up to three times when standard water pressure is applied. Its sprinkler is made using rust-proof polymer, and it covers a spray distance of 32.8 feet and has 80 PSI water pressure. The company offers free shipping for every purchase, and all the products are covered under its lifetime warranty.
Ranking as of October 2024
Derivation MethodRank | Company | Click Share |
---|---|---|
1 | DripWorks |
9.8%
|
2 | Victaulic Company |
8.5%
|
3 | Chapin International, Inc. |
8.0%
|
4 | Nelson Irrigation |
7.2%
|
5 | Rain Bird Corporation |
5.8%
|
6 | Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc. |
5.8%
|
7 | DESMI A/S |
4.5%
|
8 | Melnor Inc. |
4.5%
|
9 | HUNTER INDUSTRIES |
4.2%
|
10 | Drip Depot Inc. |
4.2%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the sprinkler page as of October 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
---|---|---|
United States of America | 7 | 63.6% |
India | 2 | 18.2% |
Sweden | 1 | 9.1% |
Indonesia | 1 | 9.1% |