What are the key design considerations for drip irrigation systems?

Drip irrigation design considers: (1) Emitter selection - flow rate (2-8 L/hr), pressure compensation for uniform distribution, (2) Lateral layout - spacing based on wetting pattern overlap and crop spacing, (3) Hydraulic design - lateral and manifold sizing to maintain pressure uniformity (emission uniformity > 85%), (4) Filtration - sand, disc, or screen filters to prevent emitter clogging, (5) Fertigation capability - injecting fertilizers through system, (6) Automation - controllers, sensors for scheduling. Operating pressure typically 50-200 kPa. System efficiency 85-95%.