12 volts on the Farm:  A Solar water system  (Patent Pending)

 

 

Many small farmers have irrigation and livestock watering needs that are unmet because of the high cost of standard electric grid installation for water pumping.  Now there is a system that is versatile, mobile and flexible which can meet the needs of many.

 

The Full Belly Project has developed a complete system for the American small farmer.  The ‘mix and match’ components are:

 

Solar Hand Cart:

 

Single Panel Hand Cart:  Up to 1,200 gallons per day at 35 psi

 

 Double Panel Hand Cart (with optional second battery): Up to 2,400 gallons per day at 35psi

 

A lightweight aluminium frame supports one (or two) 85 watt PV modules.  85 watts can pump 1000 gallons of water up 25’ on a sunny day.  It is designed for easy transport in a pick-up truck, towing behind an ATV or moving by hand.  Today’s solar panel can withstand golf ball sized hail and will be delivering 90% of their rated power 20 years from now.

 

 

Pedestal:

 

Supports single or double panel units for optimal economy and security where mobile is not an issue.  Reduces damage from animal contact.

 

 

If mobility is not an issue, the PV frame and circuitry can be mounted on a steel post.  This has advantages in economy,animal damage resistance and anti-theft security.

 

 

Surface Water Pump:

 

  

 

 

This diaphragm pump with a 45 psi shut-off, will pump 5 gpm. 45 psi will push water up 100’.  It is mounted on a UV resistant plastic frame, with or without a pressure tank and gauge. Pump has a 2 year, full replacement guarantee if it fails for any reason.

 

 

 

 

Water Pick-ups:  Standard

 

 

 

A plastic amd stainless steel screened device that keeps larger organic debris and sand out of the system.

 

low water shut-off:

 

 

 

The standard pick-up has an optional low water sensor that disconnects the pump to prevent damage from running

 

Frost resistant switch:

 

 

 

For year round livestock needs, a frost proof water level switch is available which is not affected by freezing, as are most float type switches.

 

Electrical Cables:

 

 

 

Type SEOW cable is especially durable in harsh weather and high UV situations. 10 gauge conductors mean negligible line loss for up to 150’.  Booster cable quick disconnects were chosen for durability and availability at local auto parts stores. Cables come in 50’, 25’ and 10’ lengths.  A 25’ automotive cigarette lighter cable is available is several days of heavy overcast leave your cattle a bit thirsty.  Simply connect your vehicle to the input on the solar cart to pump water and charge the battery at the same time. This cigarette lighter plug is also an output for electric fences, inverters or any other 12 volt need.

 

The Full Belly project will soon be offering 12 volt submersible pumps for deeper wells and greater frost resistance and air pumps for aerating compost or fish farms.