The Differences Between 12 mm and 16 mm Dripline Diameter
At Afriq Water, we manufacture both 12 mm and 16 mm dripline — each suited to specific field conditions and preferences. While both diameters serve the same purpose, they differ in pressure capacity, lateral length, and fitting compatibility. Understanding the difference helps you select the right size for your system and ensures you can find compatible fittings easily.
12 mm Dripline: Where It’s Commonly Used
The 12 mm dripline is most often found in regions such as Limpopo, where it has become standard for certain crops and systems. Its smaller internal diameter creates slightly higher pressure, allowing for longer lateral runs in low-pressure setups.
- Diameter: 12 mm (narrower internal flow path).
- Performance: Supports longer laterals under the same pressure.
- Availability: Popular in certain regions, but fittings can be harder to source.
- Recommendation: Suitable only where 12 mm fittings are already in use or specified.
Although 12 mm can perform well in specific systems, the limited availability of compatible fittings often causes challenges — especially for maintenance or expansion. Most South African irrigation suppliers stock primarily 16 mm fittings.
16 mm Dripline: The Afriq Water Standard
The 16 mm dripline is South Africa’s most common and widely supported dripline size — and for good reason. It allows for higher flow rates, easy compatibility with accessories, and excellent long-term reliability.
- Diameter: 16 mm (larger internal flow path).
- Performance: Ideal for most dripline systems, ensuring balanced pressure and consistent flow.
- Availability: Afriq Water manufactures and stocks a wide range of 16 mm fittings, connectors, and end plugs.
- Recommendation: Always use 16 mm unless a specific system design requires otherwise.
Because 16 mm dripline fittings are standardised across South Africa, you’ll find them at virtually any co-op or irrigation supplier — making maintenance, upgrades, and replacements far easier.
Which Size Should You Choose?
- Choose 16 mm for most installations — it’s stronger, more reliable, and fully supported by Afriq Water’s fittings range.
- Choose 12 mm only if your existing system already uses 12 mm fittings or if you’re in a region where it’s the established norm (e.g., Limpopo).
Where to Find Dripline Irrigation in South Africa
Our Afriq Drip range is proudly manufactured in South Africa, offering reliable, value-for-money irrigation solutions for farms of all sizes.
You can find our dripline rolls and fittings at most agricultural Co-Ops and irrigation suppliers across the country. Stock availability may vary, as we manufacture to order, so please allow 2–3 weeks lead time.
Prefer to buy online? Visit:
www.irrigationonlinesa.co.za
Or contact our distributor to find your nearest retailer:
www.iunlimited.co.za/contact/
