Water application efficiency is a critical part of the irrigation system’s performance. Fluctuations in pressure loss during an irrigation cycle due to undulating terrain can cause underperformance in essential areas of the field. Reinke’s internal flex joint, known as the hook and receiver, is the most predictable high-performing flex joint in the industry, with minimal pressure loss variations no matter whether it is on level ground or the most challenging terrains.

Reinke’s pressure loss through the hook and receiver joint stays relatively the same, making all of the sprinkler package performance charts relevant all the time, no matter the terrain. You don’t have to take our word for it. Clemson University conducted a study that looked at several flex joints comparing pressure loss (water flow disruption). Pressure loss was measured per joint at differing gallons per minute (gpm) on a relatively level field versus a field with a 15-degree simulated slope. The test results tell the story.

The pressure through a Reinke’s hook and receiver flex joint was virtually the same on the level ground versus the 15-degree simulated slope making it the most predictable flex joint on the market today.

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REINKE INTERNAL FLEX JOINT

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EXTERNAL BALL-HITCH COUPLER

Another flex joint type in the industry, known as the external ball and hitch, had a drastic change in pressure loss, dramatically impacting a system’s water application performance. Based on the results, an external ball and hitch’s pressure loss on a 15-degree simulated field equated to over 3.5X more pressure loss resulting in more significant pressure variability on rough terrain. This kind of pressure loss can add up quick on systems containing multiple towers. This level of unpredictability can make it difficult to predict system performance during the sprinkler design process.

The choice is clear. If you want a predictable high-performing flex joint for any terrain, there is no comparison with Reinke’s hook and receiver.