A catch-can test is used to measure which two aspects of sprinkler heads?

• A. Spray pattern uniformity and precipitation rate
• B. Water temperature
• C. Soil pH
• D. Noise and wear

Answer: (A)

A catch-can test focuses on how the sprinkler head delivers water across its coverage area. It measures two things: spray pattern uniformity and precipitation rate.

Spray pattern uniformity looks at how evenly water lands in the area the head covers. By placing multiple catch cans around the sprinkler and measuring the amount collected in each, you can see if some spots get too much water while others get too little. A uniform pattern means the head is delivering water evenly, which helps avoid dry patches or oversaturated zones.

Precipitation rate is the depth of water delivered over the covered area per unit time. By summing the water collected in all catch cans and relating it to the area and the test duration, you determine how fast the head is applying water. This helps ensure the head meets the intended flow and works with the rest of the irrigation system for proper scheduling.

Water temperature, soil pH, and aspects like noise or wear aren’t what this test measures, so they aren’t assessed by a catch-can test.