Rain train sprinklers, also known as traveling sprinklers, work by using water pressure to power a small motor and drive system that propels the sprinkler along a pre-determined path, typically defined by the layout of the hose.
Here's a breakdown of the working mechanism:
- Water Pressure as Power: The incoming water pressure from the hose is the primary source of energy.
- Motor and Gearbox: The water pressure drives a small turbine or piston-based motor within the sprinkler unit. This motor is connected to a gearbox that reduces the speed and increases the torque, enabling the sprinkler to move steadily. The video refers to it as "like a little transmission."
- Wheel Drive: The gearbox output is connected to the wheels of the rain train. As the motor turns the gearbox, the wheels rotate, causing the sprinkler to travel.
- Hose as a Guide: The sprinkler pulls itself along the hose, which acts as a track. The hose is laid out in the desired watering pattern (straight line, curve, etc.).
- Sprinkler Head Rotation: Simultaneously, the water pressure also powers the rotation of the sprinkler head, distributing water over a circular area.
- Automatic Shut-off: Many rain train sprinklers have an automatic shut-off mechanism. This is often a simple lever or button that is activated when the sprinkler reaches the end of the hose. The video shows "this little white button so when this is pressed up it will just shut the sprinkler."
In short, they convert water pressure into motion, moving the sprinkler along a hose to automatically water a large area.
