Tractor Pumps for Irrigation | Tractor PTO Pumps

Tractor-mounted pumps for irrigation are devices designed to ensure effective crop irrigation and are therefore mainly used in agriculture.

These self-priming tractor-mounted pumps are designed for those who need to attach the pump directly to the tractor via its power take-off, without resorting to electric or combustion engine pumps. They are equipped with a motor, as they harness the power of the tractor by connecting directly to the tractor's power take-off without using a cardan shaft. These tools are particularly well known for their ease of use combined with high performance in terms of head and pressure.

Tractor-mounted PTO pumps are also self-priming, which means that the pump body does not need to be filled, as they can start completely dry.

These self-priming pumps are almost indestructible, durable and powerful, equipped with simple and effective technology.

Their robustness and ability to operate in difficult conditions make them suitable for both professional and semi-professional use. They are recommended for high-pressure washing, for transferring non-corrosive liquids and for irrigation with or without sprinklers, even on uneven terrain.

Tractor-mounted pumps for irrigation are built to last thanks to their resistant materials and sturdy design. Their cast iron construction is one of the main features of these pumps, guaranteeing high mechanical resistance and durability. Cast iron is a material that offers excellent resistance to stress and wear, making these pumps suitable for intensive use in agriculture.

They are not equipped with a motor, as they utilise the power of the tractor by connecting directly to its power take-off.

Another key element is the diameter of the fittings, which is closely linked to the pump's capacity to move water: a larger diameter fitting allows for a higher water flow, which is essential for covering large irrigation surfaces in a short time.

In addition, some pumps are equipped with brass fittings, a material chosen for its exceptional resistance to corrosion, which is particularly useful in humid environments or in constant contact with water. This type of fitting guarantees a long service life even in harsh working conditions.

PTO pumps for irrigation work by connecting directly to the tractor's power take-off, which provides the energy needed to operate the pump. This type of power supply allows the pump to be used anywhere the tractor can reach, ensuring considerable operational flexibility.

Self-priming is the ability of a pump to suck air from the suction pipe. Here is the process explained in a few steps:

• First, when starting up for the first time, the pump body must be filled with water;
• Then, after activation, the pump impeller develops turbulence that creates a vacuum, causing the air in the pipe to be sucked in;
• After mixing with the liquid, the air separates from it and exits the delivery hose;
• Once all the air has been removed, the pump starts up and begins to operate.

The pumps draw water through the suction pipe and feed it into the irrigation circuit or water distribution systems. They can operate under variable pressure conditions, always ensuring a constant flow of water. This makes them ideal for irrigating large agricultural areas where a continuous and reliable flow is required.

Hydraulic tractor pumps for irrigation offer a number of advantages that make them indispensable tools for agricultural irrigation. The main advantages of PTO pumps for irrigation are listed below:

• Mobility and flexibility: As they are connected to the tractor, these pumps can be easily moved to different areas of the field, making them ideal for large or uneven terrain.
• High power: Tractor-mounted pumps harness the power of the tractor itself, allowing large quantities of water to be moved easily, even over long distances or at high suction.
• Robustness and durability: The cast iron construction and the use of resistant materials such as brass for the fittings ensure a long product life even in difficult operating conditions.
• Self-priming: The pumps are self-priming, which means they can start pumping without the need to manually fill the suction pipe with water. This greatly simplifies operations and reduces downtime.
• Operational efficiency: Thanks to their ability to maintain a constant water flow, hydraulic tractor pumps for irrigation optimise water use by reducing waste and ensuring uniform irrigation.
• Greater simplicity and ease of use;
• Greater suction height, the value that indicates the distance between the water surface and the suction inlet.

Tractor power take-off pumps have a number of technical features that determine their effectiveness and reliability over time. These self-priming pumps are virtually indestructible, durable and powerful, equipped with simple and effective technology. The main technical features that distinguish these devices are listed and described below.

The diameter of the fittings is one of the most important aspects of PTO pumps for irrigation. Generally, the diameter varies from 19 mm to 60 mm. A larger diameter fitting allows the pump to move a greater volume of water in less time, which is essential for covering large areas of land efficiently. The choice of connection diameter must be made based on the specific requirements of the application and the amount of water required.

Some models of tractor hydraulic pumps are equipped with brass fittings, a material that offers superior corrosion resistance compared to other metals. This feature is particularly useful in contexts where the pump is constantly exposed to water, such as in continuous irrigation operations or in environments with high humidity. Brass fittings ensure greater durability of the device, minimising maintenance and repair requirements.

Cast iron is the predominant material used in the construction of tractor-mounted pumps for irrigation. This material gives the pumps exceptional strength, making them suitable for withstanding the mechanical stress and wear typical of agricultural applications. Cast iron is particularly valued for its resistance to high pressures and its ability to maintain structural integrity over time, even under difficult working conditions.

The suction height indicates the maximum depth from which a pump can draw water. For tractor-mounted hydraulic irrigation pumps, the maximum suction height usually varies between 7 and 8 metres. This parameter is crucial in determining the effectiveness of the pump in different field conditions. An adequate suction height ensures that the pump can operate efficiently even in situations where the water is at considerable depths.

Choosing the right tractor-mounted pump for irrigation is a key step in ensuring efficient and long-lasting irrigation of your farmland. There are several factors to consider when purchasing that can significantly affect the performance of the pump and its ability to meet the specific needs of your farm. Here are some tips on how to choose the tractor-mounted pump that best suits your needs.

• Assess the diameter of the fittings: The diameter of the fittings is directly related to the amount of water the pump can move. If you need to cover large areas or if the required water flow rate is high, it is advisable to opt for a pump with larger diameter fittings, such as 60 mm, to ensure a more consistent water flow.
• Consider brass fittings: If your business involves frequent use of the pump in wet conditions or in close contact with water, choosing a pump with brass fittings is a wise decision. Brass offers excellent corrosion resistance, extending the pump's service life and reducing the need for maintenance.
• Check for cast iron construction: The robustness of the pump is essential to ensure long-term reliability. Pumps made of cast iron are particularly resistant to mechanical stress and wear, making them ideal for intensive agricultural applications.
• Check the maximum suction height: Suction height is a critical parameter to consider, especially if water needs to be drawn from considerable depths. To ensure that the pump can operate effectively in your specific field conditions, choose a model with a suitable maximum suction height, such as 7 or 8 metres.

Identifying your customer profile can help you choose the most suitable tractor-mounted pump for irrigation. Here are some customer types and the characteristics to consider for each:

• Farmers with large surfaces cultivated: For those who need to irrigate large areas of land, it is essential to choose a pump with a large diameter connection and a sturdy cast iron construction. Operational efficiency and the ability to handle large volumes of water are essential for quickly covering large areas.
• Small farmers and hobbyists: Those who own small/medium-sized plots of land and use the pump on a non-intensive basis can opt for models with smaller diameter fittings and less power. However, it is still advisable to choose pumps with good durability features such as brass fittings to ensure a long service life.
• Farms with intensive use: For farms that need a pump for intensive and continuous use, the choice should fall on models with brass fittings and cast iron construction, capable of resisting corrosion and wear. The self-priming function is also crucial to minimise machine downtime.
• Farms with complex irrigation systems: For those who manage complex irrigation systems, pump flexibility is crucial. In this case, a pump with fittings of various diameters and good suction capacity is essential to adapt to different configurations and ensure a constant water flow.

When choosing a tractor-mounted pump for irrigation, it is important to consider the quality of the brand to ensure the reliability and durability of the product. AgriEuro offers several options from brands known for their excellence in the manufacture of agricultural pumps. Here is an overview of the best brands available:

• Ferroni: Ferroni tractor-mounted pumps for irrigation are known for their sturdy and reliable construction, ideal for use in intensive agricultural contexts. Their range offers solutions suitable for different irrigation needs, with a particular focus on the quality of materials and operational efficiency.

Buying tractor-mounted pumps for irrigation on AgriEuro offers a number of advantages that ensure a safe, convenient and satisfying shopping experience. Here are the main reasons why it is worth choosing AgriEuro:

• Fast and free shipping: AgriEuro manages logistics directly, ensuring fast and free shipping for most products. This means that the equipment arrives quickly and at no additional cost directly to your farm.
• Availability of spare parts: At AgriEuro, you can easily order spare parts that are always available, ensuring the operational continuity of your irrigation PTO pumps and extending the life of the product over time.
• Attentive and personalised after-sales service: AgriEuro offers a high-quality after-sales service, with a team of experts ready to answer any questions or provide technical support. This ensures optimal use of the pump, with the assurance of professional support when needed.

Mounting a tractor-mounted pump on the power take-off requires care and precision to ensure safe and efficient operation. The general procedure is as follows:

• Aligning the pump and power take-off: Position the tractor on a flat surface. Align the pump with the tractor's power take-off (PTO). It is essential that the pump shaft is perfectly aligned with the PTO shaft to avoid excessive vibration and damage.
• Connecting the cardan shaft: Connect the cardan shaft between the pump and the power take-off. The cardan shaft must be the correct length; if it is too long or too short, it can cause problems. Ensure that the shaft is well lubricated and that the joints are correctly tightened.
• Securing the pump: Secure the pump to the tractor using the appropriate mounting brackets. The brackets must be sturdy and well secured to prevent movement during operation.
• Check and test: Before starting the tractor-mounted, check that all connections are secure and that the pump is correctly aligned. Start the tractor-mounted at low revs and check the pump is working, checking for any leaks or vibrations.

The tractor's power take-off (PTO) is designed to provide standardised mechanical power to connected implements. There are several different PTO speeds, the most common being:

• 540 rpm: This is the standard speed for many small and medium-sized tractors. It is ideal for implements such as pumps, mowers and fertiliser spreaders.
• 1000 rpm: Mainly used in more powerful tractors and for implements that require more power, such as shredders and large pumps.
• 750 rpm: This speed is less common but can be used for specific implements that require a compromise between 540 and 1000 rpm.

Some modern tractors offer the option of selecting between multiple PTO speeds, allowing for greater versatility and operational efficiency. The choice of speed depends on the type of implement used and the power required for its optimal operation.

Self-priming power take-off pumps are so named because they have the ability to remove air from the suction line and start pumping fluid. This process is particularly useful in agricultural and industrial applications where pumps must be able to start quickly and without complex interventions.

Here are the main features of self-priming pumps:

• Ease of use: They do not require initial filling of the suction line, reducing the time needed to start pumping.
• Versatility: They can operate in conditions where the liquid level is below the pump, such as in partially empty tanks or water sources with variable levels.
• Operational safety: By reducing the risk of cavitation, self-priming pumps protect internal components from potential damage caused by air bubbles.

Self-priming is the ability of a pump to draw air from the suction pipe. Here is the process explained in a few steps:

• First, when starting up, the pump body must be filled with water.
• Then, after activation, the pump impeller creates turbulence that generates a vacuum, causing the air in the pipe to be sucked in.
• After mixing with the liquid, the air separates from it and exits through the delivery hose.
• Once all the air has been removed, the pump starts up and begins to operate.

Pumps can be classified according to various criteria, such as their operating principle, the type of fluid they move and their specific application. The main types of pumps are:

• Positive displacement pumps: These include piston, diaphragm and gear pumps. These pumps work by moving a specific volume of fluid per cycle, making them ideal for applications requiring high pressure and low flow.
• Centrifugal pumps: These use a rotating impeller to increase the speed of the fluid, converting this energy into pressure. They are widely used in applications that require a constant flow at low pressures, such as irrigation.
• Peristaltic pumps: These work by compressing a flexible hose to push the fluid through it. They are used for corrosive fluids or those containing solid particles.
• Screw pumps: Ideal for viscous fluids, these pumps use rotating screws to move the fluid along the axis of the screw.

Each type of pump is designed to meet specific needs, and choosing the right pump depends on the application, the type of fluid and the operating conditions.

The head of a pump is a fundamental parameter that indicates the maximum height to which the pump can lift a fluid, taking into account pressure losses. The head is expressed in metres (m) or feet (ft) and is indicated on the pump's characteristic curve.

Here's how to interpret the head:

• Characteristic curve: The pump's characteristic curve represents the relationship between the fluid flow rate (usually expressed in litres per minute or cubic metres per hour) and the head. The maximum head occurs when the flow rate is zero.
• Total head: This is calculated by adding the static head (difference in height between the liquid level and the position of the pump) and the dynamic head (pressure losses along the route due to pipes, fittings, valves, etc.).
• Working point: This is the point on the characteristic curve where the pump's head corresponds to the total head required by the system. This point determines the actual operation of the pump in terms of flow rate and pressure.

Correct reading and interpretation of the head is crucial for selecting the right pump for a specific system, ensuring that it is capable of supplying the required quantity of fluid at the necessary pressure.

The characteristic parameters of a pump determine its performance and suitability for specific applications. Here are the main parameters to consider:

• Flow rate: This indicates the quantity of fluid that the pump can move in a given time interval, usually expressed in L/min or cubic metres per hour (m³/h). It is an essential parameter for correctly sizing the pump according to the requirements of the system.
• Head: As already described, this represents the maximum height to which the pump can lift a fluid. The head is decisive in choosing a pump capable of overcoming the system's pressure drops and providing the necessary pressure.
• Power consumption: This is the amount of energy the pump requires to operate, expressed in kilowatts (kW). This parameter directly affects the operating costs and efficiency of the pump.
• Efficiency: This represents the ratio between the useful power (energy transferred to the fluid) and the power absorbed by the pump. High efficiency means that the pump consumes less energy to perform the same work.
• Rotational speed: This indicates the speed at which the pump motor rotates, expressed in rpm (revolutions per minute). This parameter affects the flow rate and head of the pump.