PLC-Based Water Pumping and Distribution System for Irrigation

Abstract

This thesis presents the design and implementation of a PLC-based water pumping and distribution system in a dual-field agricultural irrigation setup to improve its water-use efficiency, reliability, and automation compared to manual irrigation methods. The work starts with an overview of conventional irrigation types and materials, followed by the definition of functional and non-functional requirements for an automated, multi-zone, sensor-driven system with strong safety and environmental considerations. The controller chosen is Eaton easy-E4-DC-12TC1 with the addition of expansion modules, interfaced with soil moisture sensors, level switches, flow sensors, pumps, solenoid valves, and protection devices, all arranged through detailed I/O lists and ladder logic. The work includes the project's virtual simulation done with tools like Factory IO, TIA/Proteus-style tools; a physical test environment; and the development of HMI, web visualization, and SCADA interfaces using Modbus TCP for real-time monitoring, control, and remote access. Implemented are zone-based irrigation strategies, delayed starts, rain-based automatic shutdown, and tank level alarms as protection for equipment, prevention of over-irrigation, energy, and water consumption. The thesis concludes that the system successfully meets its objectives and suggests future enhancements like advanced sensor technologies, wireless/IoT integration, and AI-driven sensors for irrigation optimization for more precision agriculture.