Dust Suppression in Horse Arena using Sprinklers
Riding arena surfaces (Footings) whether located inside or out can quickly dry out causing problems with dust and lack of firmness. To remedy this the surface needs to be dampened down every few days. This can be done by simply watering manually using sprinklers. However, this is not only time-consuming but can, if not done with care, cause areas of puddling.
Types of Dust Suppression System
- Mobile system (Indoor/Outdoor Arena)
- Overhead system (Indoor Arena)
- Perimeter system (Indoor /Outdoor Arena)
1. Mobile system (Indoor/Outdoor Arena)
This system is suitable for both indoor and outdoor arenas and provides a cost-effective alternative to using a handheld sprayer, which in itself is quite labor-intensive. Although a manual system requires some user input for initial set-up, by the addition of a simple battery timer the actual watering operation can be done outside of working hours. This also means the exact amount of water can be controlled and overwatering can be avoided.
Advantage
The advantage of this system is that it provides a simple and relatively cheap method of damping down the riding surface
Disadvantage
The disadvantage is that setting and resetting each time watering is required can be time-consuming. Care must also be taken when moving the sprinklers as any debris entering the pipework may block the sprinklers. Overspray to surrounding areas is inevitable with this type of system. Adequate water supply required.
2. Overhead system (Indoor Arena)
An overhead system enables the riding area to remain totally clear of pipework. Distribution lines of uPVC pipe are attached to straining wires, fixed to the roof structure suspended above the riding area. The lines are spaced at regular intervals across the area. At 2.5m intervals along the line, a downtube/sprinkler assembly is fitted into the pipe. The lines are connected to the main supply pipe and operated as pairs or, on longer runs, independently. Because the system has a higher water and pressure requirement than a simple manual system, a mains water supply is not usually good enough so a pressurization unit and separate water storage tank is required. The system can be operated manually via lever-type valves located at ground level. For automatic operation, a 230v ac controller is used. This operates the lines via signal cable and 24vac solenoid valves. The controller would normally be set up to operate outside of working hours and also has the ability for manual operation if required.
Advantages
The advantage of this system is that it provides a neat ‘out of the way’ solution. The horse or rider is unaware of its presence. If controlled automatically the system can be set to operate out of working hours ensuring the area is ready for action first thing in the morning.
Disadvantages
The disadvantage is that being positioned high up at roof level, maintenance may be an issue. The UPVC pipe is also vulnerable to frost damage so the system must be protected with a suitable frost protection system or drained down early before any chance of frost. This may reduce the system operating period when the arena is still in use. Overspray to surrounding areas is inevitable with this type of system. A 230v ac power supply is required for the pressurization unit and controller. If the system is required to run during the winter months then a frost protection system must be incorporated.
3. Perimeter system (Indoor /Outdoor Arena)
A perimeter system is the most popular method of watering an arena whether inside or out. The pipework can be surface clipped or hidden behind boarding or fencing as required. The system requires no user intervention and waters from the perimeter of the area using large radius type sprinklers on each corner and along each side. The water and pressure required means that a pressurization unit and separate water storage tank are required. A 230v ac controller operates the system on a timed basis via signal cable and 24v ac solenoid valves. The valves can be located together in one position and individual pipes are then be taken around the arena. Alternatively, a single larger pipe is taken around the perimeter and the valves are fitted at each of the sprinkler positions. This will largely depend upon the size of the area and available fixing points.
Advantages
The biggest advantage of perimeter sprinklers is that there is reduced overspray in the surrounding areas. This type of system is generally easier to install and maintain.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages are that a 230v ac power supply is required for the pressurization unit and controller. Space and a suitable base are needed for the water storage tank. Also if in an exposed location the sprinkler throw may be reduced.
If the system is located inside and required to run during the winter months then a frost protection system must be incorporated.
Things to consider for designing Dust suppression systems for horse arenas
- Arena Size
- Water supply
- Pump size
- Manual/Automated