What Dripline Type Do You Need — Pressure Compensating or Non-Pressure Compensating?
Choosing between Pressure Compensating (PC) and Non-Pressure Compensating (Non-PC) dripline depends on your land, water pressure, and crop setup. Both types are effective, but each is designed for different conditions — one focuses on uniformity, while the other prioritises simplicity and cost-efficiency.
When to Use Pressure Compensating (PC) Dripline
PC dripline maintains an even flow rate along the entire pipe, no matter how far it runs or where it’s placed on your land. It’s ideal for areas where water pressure varies — like sloped fields, large installations, or systems running off uneven pump pressures.
- Use PC dripline if:
- Your land is uneven or sloped.
- Your system has variable pressure or long laterals.
- You need consistent water delivery for high-value crops or precision irrigation.
PC emitters include tiny silicone diaphragms that self-adjust as pressure changes, ensuring that every plant — from the start to the end of the line — gets the same amount of water.
When to Use Non-Pressure Compensating (Non-PC) Dripline
Non-PC dripline offers excellent performance on flat ground and in smaller, controlled systems. It doesn’t self-regulate pressure, so the first few emitters might discharge slightly more water than those at the end — but in short, level rows, the difference is negligible.
- Use Non-PC dripline if:
- Your land is flat and even.
- You’re irrigating vegetables, tunnels, or small plots.
- You want a cost-effective solution with straightforward installation.
Non-PC dripline is perfect for small farms and greenhouses, offering great water efficiency without the added cost of pressure compensation.
Quick Comparison: PC vs Non-PC Dripline
| Feature | Pressure Compensating (PC) | Non-Pressure Compensating (Non-PC) |
|---|---|---|
| Water Flow Consistency | Even across long or sloped runs | Varies slightly with distance or pressure |
| Best For | Uneven terrain, orchards, vineyards, tunnels | Flat fields, nurseries, vegetable beds |
| Emitter Design | With silicone diaphragm (self-adjusting) | Simple labyrinth design (no diaphragm) |
| Cost | Higher, but offers uniform irrigation | More affordable per metre |
| Maintenance | Less frequent flushing needed | Requires more regular flushing |
Making the Right Choice
Before deciding, consider your layout, terrain, and water pressure. If your fields are uneven, sloped, or require precise irrigation control, Pressure Compensating dripline is worth the investment. For flat, small, or uniform plots, Non-Pressure Compensating dripline provides the same efficiency at a lower cost.
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/
