Which valve type is used to regulate or sustain pressure in an irrigation system?

• A. Pressure regulating/sustaining
• B. Electric valve
• C. Manual valve
• D. Hydrometer

Answer: (A)

Controlling pressure in an irrigation network ensures emitters operate within their designed range. A pressure regulating/sustaining valve is designed to do exactly that: it reduces excess supply pressure to a set downstream level, protecting components and promoting uniform performance. In some configurations it also responds to pressure drops to maintain a minimum downstream pressure during higher demand. This automatic regulation sets it apart from an electric valve, which merely opens and closes under power, and a manual valve, which requires hand operation and does not regulate pressure. A hydrometer is a measuring device, not a valve. So the valve that regulates or sustains pressure in an irrigation system is the pressure regulating/sustaining valve.