Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the performance of four power transmission models operated by human propulsion for field irrigation. A bicycle was directly connected to a pump in three of the models designed, while a car alternator was used to supply electric power to the pump in the other model. The performance of the models was evaluated by determining the highest efficiency using characteristic curves, including measurements of pump outlet flow (L min-1), elevation (m), force applied to the pedal (N) and pedaling rate (RPM). The model in which a wheel was placed on the pump rotor (M4) had the highest performance and the lowest construction cost, with a maximum flow of 36.78 L min-1 at 1.02 m and a maximum elevation of 20.04 m with a flow of 12.48 L min-1.The efficiency values fluctuated between 3.90% and 21.17% during the preliminary evaluation. The highest power transmission efficiency rates were around 20%, with flows between 13.35 L min-1 and 30.56 L min-1 at elevations of 5.10 m and 10.20 m.