Center pivot construction for center pivot sprinkler

摘要

The present invention discloses an improved center pivot for a self-propelled center pivot irrigation system. The preferred embodiment is characterized by a vertical pivot pipe supported for rotational movement at both the upper and lower extremities thereof. Additionally, the gasket assembly providing leak-proof rotational movement of the pivot pipe relative to a fixed liquid supply pipe is characterized by a slideable casing which can be moved from a normal operating position wherein the fixed supply pipe and the rotating pivot pipe are bridged by the casing with gaskets disposed between mating surfaces and a second non-bridged position wherein the gaskets are removable so as to allow replacement of worn gaskets without moving or removing any of the major pipe components of the sprinkler system. In the preferred embodiment, a strain relief assembly is carried by the casing and connectable to a conduit pipe extending the length of the pivot pipe to a packing gland at the top thereof through which the conduit pipe passes to connect to a collector ring assembly.