Performance indicators of irrigation pumping stations: application to drill holes of minor irrigated areas in the Kairouan plains (Tunisia) and impact of malfunction on the price of water

This article aims at proposing a robust and simple methodology to evaluate the performance of pumping equipment used in irrigation. After a theoretical review of the efficiency of centrifugal pumps, the authors will propose definitions of easily accessible indicators as well as reference values validated by “manufacturers” data. Then the authors will make an inventory and a critique of methods used to estimate pumped volumes. The authors will apply this model of diagnosis to a group of 18 drill-hole pumping stations supplying minor irrigated areas in the plain of Kairouan in central Tunisia. The authors will show that it is possible, thanks to the analysis of the results, to define a methodology used to estimate pumped volumes, and they will quantify the impact of noted malfunctions on the price of water.