
In modern agriculture and horticulture, automatic irrigation devices have greatly improved resource utilization efficiency and work efficiency. In these devices, relays play a crucial role and are one of the core components for achieving automation control in the system. Next, we will take a closer look at the function of the automatic irrigation device relay
What is an automatic irrigation device
The automatic irrigation device refers to a machine or system in which automatic control is realized by applying automation technology in the process of controlling water sources and irrigation in land that belongs to farming, horticulture, greenhouses, or landscaping. Automatic regulation, sense, execution of intelligent irrigation, is achieved through collaborative work with sensors, control systems, and actuators, saving manpower, time, and water resources.
Composition of Automatic Irrigation System
The major components of an automated irrigation device will include:
- Water pump or solenoid valve: used for water flow control.
- Sensor: detects soil moisture, temperature, or weather changes.
- Controller: can be a timer or programmable controller.
- Relay: As the core switch, it realizes the linkage between sensor signals and water pumps.
The core role of relays in the system
Relays connect sensors, controllers, and water pumps, acting as intelligent switches to enable the irrigation system to turn on or off at the correct time.
The Specific Function of Relays in Irrigation
1. Control the startup and shutdown of the water pump
Relay receives the signal from sensors or controllers to turn on or off the water pump, such as:
It detects the drought signal of the soil moisture sensor, instantly closes the relay, and instantly triggers the water pump to start irrigation.
When the humidity reaches the target value, the relay will disconnect to stop irrigation.
2. Sensor signal receipt and switching circuit
Relays can combine multiple sensor signals. For example, soil moisture sensors and weather sensors make comprehensive judgments to carry out irrigation activities.
3. Used together with a timer
Relays can be used with timers to achieve functions of timed irrigation, guaranteeing the operation during certain periods.
4. Provide function of equipment protection
The disconnecting function of the relay can prevent overload operation and protect the water pump or solenoid valve.
Collaboration between relays and sensors
How to trigger the relay of soil moisture sensor
When the soil moisture is lower than the set value, the humidity sensor sends a signal to the relay, and the relay closes the circuit to start the water pump.
Once the humidity goes back to normal, the relay will disconnect the circuit and the water pump will stop.
Application of Temperature or Weather Sensors
Temperature or rainfall sensors can avoid unnecessary irrigation. For example, the weather sensor, before rainfall, triggers a relay to pause the irrigation.
How to integrate multiple sensor signals
Relays can also be designed to develop logic circuits for comprehensive irrigation need decisions based on several sensor signals. For example, if the humidity is low and the temperature is high, the relay switches on the irrigation.
Application Cases

Large scale irrigation of farmland
The method of zoning management and precision irrigation can be realized by adopting several relay modules, respectively, to control different areas of irrigation. For example, data acquisition in different areas through soil moisture sensors, and the connection of relays to open or shut valves, constitute an intelligent irrigation system that enhances the utilization efficiency of water resources significantly.
It is suitable for scenarios such as farmland, large orchards, and greenhouse planting.
home gardening
With the simple combination of humidity sensors and individual relay modules, users can easily build automated gardening systems. For example, when the humidity is below the set threshold, the relay starts the small water pump to irrigate, and automatically stops when the humidity returns to normal. Suitable for home balcony gardens, small potted plant areas, or courtyard planting, convenient, practical, energy-saving, and environmentally friendly.

FAQ
What type of relay can be used in automatic irrigation systems?
According to the load condition, an electromagnetic relay or solid-state relay is acceptable.
How will relays help avoid overload to the irrigation systems?
At the time of overload it automatically cuts the circuit to save the equipment.
A number of water pumps can be switched on at a time?
Yes, it is achievable through multiple numbers of relays.
What is the compatibility of a relay to a sensor?
Relays can be compatible with different sensor signals, either analog or digital signals.
Can the relay be controlled remotely?
Yes, it can be managed remotely by adding Wi Fi modules or IoT technology.
QIANJI is a professional relay supplier that produces various types of relays and supports customized services for your needs. We sell directly from the factory and offer you the most favorable prices. Provide the highest quality relays for your irrigation system.
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