What is an Oscillating Sprinkler?

An oscillating sprinkler is a water distribution system that uses a specially designed sprinkler head to force the water to spray in a fan-shaped water curtain. An attached arm mov...  more

An oscillating sprinkler is a water distribution system that uses a specially designed sprinkler head to force the water to spray in a fan-shaped water curtain. An attached arm moves the water back and forth over a predefined area. This type of sprinkler is commonly used to water a lawn or field. There are two designs of oscillating sprinklers: rotational and intermittent. In a rotational oscillating sprinkler, the water is forced through a single metal bar with spaced holes built into it. The bar is attached to the oscillating motor head, moving the bar itself. As the water flows, the bar distributes the water over a broader area. The height of the water flow is directly related to the amount of water flowing to the sprinkler, the higher the water pressure, the larger the affected area. An intermittent oscillating sprinkler has a slightly different design. The water flows in a steady stream. An intermittent arm on the sprinkler moves into the water flow and redirects it in a ...  more