What does 'looped mains' describe in an irrigation piping system?

• A. A single main line that loops around the field
• B. A method to raise pressure with pump
• C. A piping arrangement where supply lines form loops to provide alternate flow paths
• D. A type of sprinkler head

Answer: (C)

Looped mains are a piping layout where the supply lines are arranged to form loops, giving water multiple routes to reach the irrigation zones. This setup provides alternate flow paths, which helps balance pressure across the system and adds redundancy so a section can be shut off or isolated without cutting off water to the entire field. It also makes flushing and maintenance easier, since water can be directed around the loop in different directions to clear debris. This description fits the idea of supply lines forming loops to provide alternate flow paths. It’s not about increasing pressure with a pump, and it isn’t a type of sprinkler head.