Optimal selection and collocation of filter units in micro-irrigation system

In order to reduce the manufacturing and operating cost of filter equipment in micro-irrigation, the mathematical models for the selection optimization of single-body filter and the configuration optimization of single-stage combination filter were established according to the combination pattern and working characteristic of the filters. The minimum annual cost was taken as the objective. Meanwhile the procedures and method for the equipment selection optimization and configuration of the filters were deduced. The case analyses demonstrated that the method was simple and practical, requiring fewer calculation parameters and easier to obtain the optimum solution. The annual cost of the single-body filter under the condition of optimized selection was reduced by 46.7% and that of the single-stage combination filter was decreased by 56.0% or 25.3%. The results in this work will provide a basis for the optimization and also the development and production of the filters in micro-irrigation. Beyond that it will help to cut down the manufacturing and operating cost of the micro-irrigation project and accelerate the development of the micro-irrigation technology.