September 2015

What’s the difference between a diaphragm and electrically actuated control valves?

Posted on September 24, 2015September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

A diaphragm valve on a pipe

A diaphragm valve and an electrically actuated control valve are two similar valves that have a few key differences. A diaphragm valve is a manual type of valve that is used within a closing device. In these instances, the diaphragm valve is responsible for isolating or blocking the flow of liquids. Generally speaking, diaphragm valves are used under low pressure and within a limited temperature operating range. With this in mind, they are a commonly chosen valve for regulating gases and liquids.

Contrary to a diaphragm valve, an electrically actuated control valve is not a manual valve. Rather, it is a valve that is powered by a motor. The motor converts electrical energy into a mechanical torque, which then opens or closes the valve (or in some cases, valves). The electrically actuated control valve is one of the highest torque operating valves because it relies on electric power rather than having a dependence on compressed air. The electric solution has a number of benefits.

It is a cost effective solution.
The electrically actuated control valve offers a wider variety of control-valve applications.
It can be successfully used within the chemical, petrochemical, power generation, and other process industries.

With these key differences in mind, it is important to note that both the diaphragm valve and the electrically actuated control valve are appropriate solutions. Determining when to use each type of valve will depend on the type of liquid or gas that you need to handle, as well as the industry that you work within. To learn more about the differences between a diaphragm valve and an electrically actuated control valve contact the experts at W.P. Law. The entire W.P. Law team is dedicated to providing valuable insights, services, and products to a multiplicity of industries. Contact a team member today to discover which valve is best suited for your unique set of requirements.

Can I set up my landscape lights on a timer?

Posted on September 17, 2015September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Exterior of a home illuminated by landscape lighting at night

As the summer sun begins to fade away, it is time to reconsider the effectiveness of your landscape lighting . When the sun was staying out late, and the moon seemed to keep your yard lit with glowing light, you could afford to turn on your outdoor lights later in the night. However, as the fall rapidly approaches it is time to save yourself the hassle of manually turning on your lights, and instead rely on an automatic timer.

Adjusting Landscape Lights

Most lighting systems are equipped with a lighting transformer. This transformer will need to be adjusted, so that your lights automatically turn on when you need them. To adjust the timer, follow these simple guidelines.

Safely open the transformer.
Find the timer and unplug it. While there are different styles of timers, the most common timers will have red and green clips or feature push buttons.
A push style timer will require you to change the time via the tabs. Simply pull the tabs in or push them out to the desired time.
The red and green clip style uses the green clip to indicate when the lights will turn on and the red clip for when the lights will turn off. Simply slide the clips to the correct timeframe.
Be sure to check that you have adjusted the timer correctly for A.M. or P.M.
Set the timer to the current time.
Plug the timer back in.
Close the transformer and voila, you are done!

Once you have successfully set your landscape lighting you can simply wait until it is dark to make sure that your lights are coming on at the desired time. Adjust as needed, based on seasonal conditions and personal preferences.

To discover additional landscape lighting tips, be sure to contact the experts at W.P. Law. Since 1970, W.P. Law has been helping homeowners and businesses transform their outdoor spaces into beautifully lit oases. To discover alternative landscape timer solutions, contact a W.P. Law team member today.

What should I consider before choosing an irrigation system for my farm?

Posted on September 10, 2015September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Choosing an irrigation system is important for the growing success of your farm’s produce. However, not all irrigation systems are created equally. From sprinkler irrigation to micro-irrigation, there are a number of factors that you should consider before you can successfully choose an irrigation system.

Choosing a Farm Irrigation System

The first tip for choosing your farm’s irrigation system is to remember that no one system will be best for every application. With this in mind, keep the following factors in mind:

Crops — What type of crops will you be planting?
Size and shape of field — How will the size and shape of your field affect drainage and water flow?
Water source — Do you have the appropriate water source for your intended irrigation system?
Elevation changes — What are the elevation changes within the field an from the water source to the field?
Labor requirements — Is your chosen irrigation system labor intensive, and do you have the manpower needed to properly operate the system?

With these factors in mind, you are ready to explore a variety of irrigation systems. Many farmers and gardeners use drip irrigation. It helps you water the plants that you actually want to have watered, rather than spreading the water far and wide. Through the drip irrigation system, you are less likely to accidentally feed your weed population. Drip irrigation systems are energy and water efficient, since drip irrigation operates at lower pressures pump and pipe sizes can be kept smaller.

A center pivot irrigation system is a self-propelled watering system that rotates around a central pivot point. Generally speaking, there are three types of center pivot irrigation systems: Low Energy Precision Application (LEPA), medium pressure sprinklers, and high pressure sprinklers. LEPA discharges water directly to the furrow, which is great when you are trying to grow taller plants, such as corn. A medium pressure sprinkler can be used when water needs to cover a wider area, while a high-pressure sprinkler is the ideal choice for fields with fine textured soils or sharp slopes.

To learn more about which irrigation system is best for your farm, contact the experts at W.P. Law. W.P. Law offers quality advice on irrigation systems and products. With their guidance you can choose the irrigation system that best meets your specific requirements, including budget, size of field, and type of crop being grown.

What are the advantages of using a submersible pump?

Posted on September 3, 2015September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Tips to Figuring Out Why Pop-Up Sprinkler Heads Aren’t Working

A submersible pump

A submersible pump works in a similar fashion to a standard pump, in that it helps move liquid from one location to another. However, a submersible pump also has the added benefit of being able to work even when it is placed underwater. Submersible pumps are generally used for drainage, slurry, and sewage pumping. There are also submersible water pumps, which can be used for a variety of tasks within the household.

Top Benefits to Submersible Pumps

The submersible pump has a multitude of benefits that make it a top pumping choice.

Convenient and easy to use. — Submersible water pumps are lightweight, small in size, and portable, which makes them both convenient and easy to use. You can take them where you need them and easily install them when needed, which will save you time and money.
Submersible pumps are efficient. — The submersible pump works directly at the source, which means that it typically has to use less effort to pump the liquid(s).
Submersible pumps tend to be corrosion resistant. — One of the top benefits of high-end submersible pumps is that they are corrosion resistant, which means that you can save money avoiding costly repairs. Corrosion resistant submersible pumps are usually made from stainless steel components.
There are a wide variety of submersible pumps . — There are many different types of submersible pumps, which make it easier to find the pump that is best suited for your unique pumping needs. While some submersible pumps need to be completely submerged, others can work while they are half submerged. There are also submersible pumps that can handle both liquids and solids.

To learn more about the unique advantages of using a submersible pump, contact the experts at W.P. Law. Since 1970, W.P. Law has been providing expert advice, services, and products. Discover the ideal submersible pump to meet your water, drainage, slurry, or sewage pumping needs.

Month: September 2015