Some people are confused how a system is connected with a ZipDrip vs without, why there are all T nozzles vs last one terminating in an L nozzle. What is a backbone system and why would I need it. The next 3 examples and diagrams should answer all these questions for you
SYSTEM WITHOUT ZIP DRIP
Systems that do not have a ZipDrip valve connected terminate with a final elbow misting assembly or a T-misting assembly that has been plugged. If you are connecting a single or multiple nozzles the idea will be the same. For illustration purposes, we are showing an install with 3 nozzles.
The instant when the pump stops, the pressurized water inside the tubing has nowhere to go and will cause your nozzles to drip a little.
Once pressure drops where the checkvalves in the nozzles can engage, the nozzle will close and dripping will stop. Nozzles, will never drip for an extended period of time after misting is done. Nevertheless you should expect more dripping than from a system equipped with a ZipDrip valve.
SYSTEM WITH ZIP DRIP CONNECTION
Systems that include a ZipDrip valve form a loop allowing rapid release of pressure that is trapped in the lines when misting stops.
Remember that misting system pumps run between 60-125psi depending on how many nozzles you are using and if the pump’s bypass is engaged during misting.
Nozzles already contain the built in checkvalves, which greatly reduce post mist drip, nevertheless little dripping is expected. A system equipped with a ZipDrip valve instantly releases pressure from the tubing, resulting in a clean finish with zero … ZIP…DRIP! This is a great option in places that are not drained and only benefit from the added mist and not dripping.
3/8" BACKBONE SYSTEM
In larger systems (20 nozzles+) the system may bottleneck on the input and on the output as the 1/4" tubing may not be able to handle the demands of the misting system. For this reason the pump has to be supplied with larger tubing. It also needs to properly supply all the misting assemblies with water.
The green line in the diagram refers to the system's "backbone" of 3/8" diameter tubing. From there you can run your 1/4" connections.
Remember our systems are all modular, therefore your system will probably look totally different, but the diagram should give you an idea on how to connect things together. You can install your system in a greenhouse, a barn, ZOO, rack, etc but the idea will be the same.
- For simplicity fittings are not shown on any of the diagrams. Remember when connecting tubing:
- 3/8" to 3/8" you will need a 3/8" fitting
- 3/8" to 1/4" you will need a reducing fitting
- 1/4" to 1/4" you will need a 1/4" fitting
Plan accordingly and figure out the system before you cut and connect things together.
