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Topon Visarrea, Blanca
Accurate Automation in Nutrient Solution Dosage for Pressurized Irrigation Systems
2025
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Sarmiento Ortiz, Fabián
,
Topon Visarrea, Blanca
,
Iza Llumigusin, Christian
pressurized irrigation systems, especially concerning electroconductivity (EC) and pH. In this context, data from field samples of a rose crop located in Tabacundo, Ecuador, and agronomic tables were compared to identify deviations in variables. It was observed that electroconductivity fluctuates irregularly between values of 1.3 mS and 2.7 mS, with the target value being 1.8 mS. In contrast, the pH exhibited values higher than the ideal 5.5. In response to this issue, an automated system with a graphical interface was developed to facilitate control of EC and pH values. This was achieved through PID control and automation using PLC+HMI, flow transmitter, flow sensor, and hydraulic elements comprising the pumping system. As a result, greater control was achieved through PID, reducing pH and EC errors to 3% compared to the desired values. Additionally, irrigation time was reduced by 50%. The implementation of the HMI-PLC interface facilitated agronomists’ human-computer interaction, emphasizing the importance of automatic control in agriculture, showcasing significant improvements in precision, efficiency, and ease of operation. The implemented system stands as an effective solution for optimizing nutrient management in irrigation systems, contributing to the healthy growth of crops, promising to simplify agricultural operations by providing farmers with more precise control and improved supervision in pressurized irrigation systems.