Do you know the main differences between water spray systems, sprinklers, and water mist systems? In this blog post we will discuss the three main types of irrigation systems, as well as their key differences.
The Differences Between Types of Water Systems
Water Spray Systems
A spray system effectively suppresses dust and controls odor in certain commercial and industrial applications. A spray stream product produces a column of air that projects a dense spray of atomized water. The water can travel distances of 150 feet or more, and are engineered for industrial applications.
Primary uses for water spray systems:
- Construction sites
- Building demolition
- Steel and slag facilities
- Rock quarries
- Mining operations
- Waste transfer stations
Sprinkler Systems
There are many commercial applications for in-ground sprinkler systems, but they are also standard in many residential communities. Controlling the time of day, frequency, and length of watering maximizes the cost benefits of your lawn while efficiently regulating the amount of water required. The good news is that a commercial manufacturer can design and install an in-ground residential sprinkler system.
Primary uses for sprinklers:
- Local municipalities
- Tourism
- Hotels
- Golf courses
- Parks
- Residences
Water Mist Systems
Misting systems have been in use for decades. They are a terrific way to conserve water through the distribution of a fine mist, which has a wider radius than traditional sprinklers or nozzle hose systems. High temperatures and low humidity will optimize the cooling effects generated by water mist systems. Indoor mister systems are ideal for greenhouses, where seed germination begins.
Primary uses for water mist systems:
- Hotels & Resorts
- Greenhouses
- Golf courses
- Tennis courts
- Fountains
- Restaurants
- Theme parks
- Outdoor patios
How Misting Systems Work
Mist cooling systems operate through the process of converting streams of water into tiny droplets about 15 microns in diameter. This is just the right size for absorbing and getting rid of airborne dust and odors in industrial settings. The droplets also evaporate quickly, reducing the temperature by up to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing you to stay cool without getting wet or feeling damp. The best results are seen when the temperature is over 80 degrees Fahrenheit with a steady air flow and humidity level lower than 50%.
Brass and stainless steel or fully stainless steel nozzle options are cleanable and designed with anti-drip adapters. For tubing and fittings, nylon, Synflex, copper, or stainless steel work well. Misting systems are also compatible with temperature and humidity controllers, and many other accessories.
How Misting Systems Use Water
Water is a unique and incredibly diverse resource. It is the only substance on the planet that has the ability to naturally exist as a solid, a liquid, or a gas. Consequently, water has varying properties depending on the state it is in. Misting systems take advantage of both the liquid and gas properties of water to achieve effective dust and odor control, reduce ambient temperature in cooling applications, and increase relative humidity levels. When water is atomized into tiny, micron-sized droplets and dispersed into the air, its properties are magnified.
- Liquid: As a liquid, water has the ability to absorb and be absorbed by other compounds. If properly dispersed in large quantities, water droplets can absorb individual dust and odor particles and completely remove them from the air in a process known as adhesion. With this method, water can be used as a simple yet effective method of dust and odor control. When combined with fog, these systems can easily achieve long-range outdoor dust and odor control.
- Gas: When water evaporates to a gas, its physical properties change. The flash evaporation of liquid to gas absorbs energy from the air in the form of heat, significantly reducing ambient temperature. Because water absorbs more heat for each degree of temperature reduction than most other substances, water evaporation is an ideal method of outdoor cooling.
When water is evaporated and the air exchange is limited, relative humidity increases. By controlling the amount of moisture and the air flow, any relative humidity level can be artificially created and precisely maintained.
This is how humidification systems are designed. They utilize the same basic components of a cooling system, but use the buildup of moisture in the air to achieve a required level of humidity. Humidification systems are typically used in greenhouses and grow chambers, and are useful for industries that require humidity levels above 50%, including textiles, woodworking, paper storage, and printing facilities.
Once the air becomes saturated and can no longer absorb additional moisture, 100% humidity is achieved, and water stays in its liquid state. Micron-sized droplets of water suspend themselves in the air, creating a natural fog effect. When properly applied, this saturation point can create unique and dramatic landscape special effects.
Common Misconceptions About Misting Systems
- Misting systems are high-maintenance: Quality misting systems are low-maintenance and built to last. With special lines and nozzles, there are only minimal maintenance requirements. Quality pumps are also designed to run with just basic checks on a standard schedule.
- Misting systems leave water everywhere: The truth is that many of low-quality misting systems do leave water droplets around and under nozzles. This is because of poor design and inconsistent water pressure, which make water droplets bead rather than form micron-sized water droplets.
Fogco Misting Systems
Fogco’s custom-designed misting systems use high-pressure pumps, fittings, and components to take advantage of natural properties of water, creating solutions for many different industrial, commercial, and agricultural applications. Our experienced design staff can help you find the most appropriate solution that uses the power of fog and natural properties of water.
Our high-pressure mist and fog systems are designed for dust and odor suppression. Contact us today to learn more about how our systems can help your business.
