Conceptually Simple - Easy to Use - Easy to Analyze
How to Install IRIS Films
1. Load films into delivery tubes
1. Load films into delivery tubes
1. Load films into delivery tubes
a. This is accomplished by wrapping the film around a smaller diameter slotted ("wrapping") tube and then sliding the tube and film into a larger diameter "delivery" tube. (See Illustration)
b. The slotted wrapping tube is then extracted, leaving the film inside the delivery tube
c. Note: this step can be done for a large number of films in the office before heading to the field. (See Video)
2. Prepare 1”diameter pilot hole
1. Load films into delivery tubes
1. Load films into delivery tubes
a. A pilot hole is made in the soils with a 1” OD push probe; Suitable 1” OD soil push probes are available here
b. The pilot hole should be made at least 2” deeper than the depth to which you are deploying the films (22” to 23” hole for a 20” (50cm) film).
3. Fix push rod for installation
1. Load films into delivery tubes
3. Fix push rod for installation
a. Slide the push rod down the delivery tube and insert the hook into the hole in the IRIS film. (See Illustration)
b. Use a small pocket knife or spatula to open a space between the IRIS film and the tube wall, for the push rod hook (See illustration) (See Video).
4. Insert the Films
5. Deployment of IRIS Films
3. Fix push rod for installation
a. Hold the push rod and delivery tube (containing an IRIS film) firmly together and insert into the pilot hole. Be careful to keep the push rod hooked through the hole in the IRIS film.
b. Using the rod to hold the film in place, grasp the top of the delivery tube and pull it up, sliding the tube over the film. (Wearing a pair of tacky gloves makes this step easier.)
c. Continue sliding the delivery tube until it is completely removed from the ground.
d. The push rod can then be disengaged from the film and easily removed from the ground. VIEW INSTALLATION
e. A small plastic capsule cover is placed over the film to help maintain the circular geometry. VIEW CAPSULE COVERS
5. Deployment of IRIS Films
5. Deployment of IRIS Films
5. Deployment of IRIS Films
This video illustrates the deployment of IRIS films.
6. Deployment When Ponded
5. Deployment of IRIS Films
5. Deployment of IRIS Films
This video demonstrates deployment of IRIS films under ponded conditions
Delivery Tubes
How many delivery tubes do I need?
The number of delivery tubes needed should equal the number of films you wish to deploy in a single day. Delivery tubes are completely reusable. That is one of the advantages of the IRIS film system. However, to avoid scratching the films and for optimal functionality, the tubes should be cleaned between uses. A brush for cleaning the tubes is included with every kit, and tubes are easily cleaned with a light scrubbing using tap water. After cleaning and rinsing, tubes should air dry before loading additional films. What this means is that you should have enough delivery tubes to deploy the films scheduled for a given day (20 would permit deployment of 5 replicate films at 4 plots). At the end of the day, you can clean and rinse the tubes and allow them to dry overnight and then reload them with IRIS films for the next day's deployment. NOTE: We have found that cleaning delivery tubes is easier when using a long flat plastic basin such that used for storing wrapping paper. These are inexpensive and widely available online; (https://www.containerstore.com/s/iris-clear-gift-wrap-box/d?q=Clear%20Gift%20Wrap%20Box&productId=10023588 https://www.walmart.com/ip/IRIS-30-Inch-Wrapping-Paper-Storage-Box-Clear/33154123 )
