Flushing valves release water from the end of a dripline to carry loose sediment and organic debris out of the line. Install them at the downstream end of a line or on the collecting manifold, which connects the ends of multiple dripline rows. On sloping layouts, the collecting manifold and flushing point are normally at the lower end.
The Netafim brown automatic flushing valve releases approximately 2 litres of water at the start of each irrigation cycle to flush loose debris from the line. It then closes for normal watering. After irrigation stops, the valve gradually reopens, allowing remaining water to drain through the outlet where the pipe layout permits. It stays open ready for the next start-up flush. The minimum pressure at the line end is 50 kPa, with a recommended maximum of 400 kPa. The maximum zone flow per valve is 3,500 litres per hour.
Vacuum breakers let air into irrigation lines as water drains, helping prevent vacuum that can restrict drainage and draw soil into drippers. Install them at high points within the irrigation zone, connected to the lines they protect.
The grey Netafim and black Toro vacuum breakers both have a 15mm male thread. The Netafim valve has a maximum working pressure of 400 kPa. The Toro 101VB15 has a maximum pressure of 1000 kPa.
The Netafim indicator flag provides a visible check of line pressure. It lies down at zero pressure, is partly raised at approximately 30kPa and stands upright at approximately 50kPa. The supplied 90cm feedtube and 33cm stake allow the flag to be positioned above the soil.
Netafim Brown Flushing Valve Specifications
Netafim Pressure Indicator Specifications
Toro Air Vacuum Breaker 15mm Specifications
Netafim Grey Vacuum Breaker 15mm Specifications
