DRIP LINE AND EMITTER AND METHODS RELATING TO SAME

摘要

An irrigation emitter and drip line, and methods relating to same, are provided for reducing the flow and pressure of fluid via an emitter or plurality of emitters defined by two concentric tubes. In one form, the first tube defines an emitter inlet and connected pressure-reducing flow channel and the second tube is extruded over the first tube to enclose the emitter inlet and flow channel and defines an outlet connected to an end of the flow channel opposite the inlet to create an emitter for converting fluid flowing at a high flow rate in the lumen and at the first end of the inlet to a fluid with a low flow rate at the outlet of the emitter. In another form, a drip line is provided having a plurality of such emitters. Various other forms and methods relating to the emitter and drip line are also disclosed.

主权项

1. A method of manufacturing a drip line comprising:
extruding a first tube layer having inner and outer surfaces and defining an inner lumen through which fluid may flow; embossing a plurality of inlets and pressure-reducing flow channels having first and second ends on an exterior surface of the first extruded tube layer, with each pressure-reducing flow channel being connected to one of the plurality of inlets at the first end each of the pressure-reducing flow channels to form a corresponding flow channel for each inlet, and the plurality of inlets opening to the inner lumen defined by the inner surface of the first extruded tube layer and sized to receive pressurized fluid from the inner lumen; extruding a second tube layer over the first tube layer to enclose the plurality of inlets and flow channels; and making outlet openings in the second extruded tube layer near the second end of each pressure-reducing flow channel so that the flow channel extends between and connects the inlet and outlet of one of the plurality of inlets and outlets to form an emitter for reducing the pressure and flow of the pressurized fluid received at the inlet by the time the fluid is discharged through the plurality of outlets.