Rainbird is a manufacturer of irrigation products such as sprinklers, valves, controllers and accessories. The company was founded in 1933 by Orton Englehart and currently has its headquarters in Azusa, California. Rainbird is still very much in business today, being one of the world’s leading manufacturers of irrigation equipment.
Is Rainbird still manufacturing sprinklers and other irrigation products?
Yes, Rainbird is still actively manufacturing a wide range of irrigation products including sprinklers, rotors, nozzles, valves, controllers, drip irrigation parts, pumps and other accessories. The company has continuously innovated and expanded its product line over its 90+ year history.
Some of Rainbird’s most popular current products include:
– Rotary sprinklers like the Rainbird 5000 series
– Spray heads like the 1800 series
– Rotor sprinklers such as the Rainbird 5004 series
– Drip irrigation parts and tubing
– Valves including the PEB/PESB and PGA/PGV models
– Controllers like the ESP-TM2 and ESP-LXME models
Rainbird also offers smart irrigation controllers and components designed to help save water. So in summary, Rainbird continues to manufacture its core range of sprinklers, nozzles, rotors, valves and other irrigation products.
What is Rainbird’s current market share in the irrigation industry?
Rainbird holds a leading market share of approximately 23% in the global irrigation equipment industry as of 2022. The company has maintained a top market share position for decades through continued innovation, quality products and strong branding.
Some key facts about Rainbird’s market position:
– Estimated 23% share of the $1.7 billion global irrigation equipment market in 2022. Continues to be the market share leader.
– Leads in key product categories like rotary sprinklers, valves and controllers. Holds the #1 market share position in several irrigation product segments.
– Very strong share in the North American market with an estimated 35-40% market share.
– Long track record of being one of the most recognized and trusted brands in irrigation. High brand loyalty among contractors and distributors.
While competitors like Hunter Industries, Toro, Nelson Irrigation and others have meaningful market shares as well, Rainbird maintains a leading overall share in the global irrigation components industry through its breadth of product line, brand strength and continued innovation.
Company History and Overview
When and how was Rainbird founded?
Rainbird was founded in 1933 by Orton Englehart. Englehart invented the world’s first impact sprinkler while working on a farm in Glendora, California. This revolutionized irrigation by allowing water to be spread efficiently and economically.
Englehart’s wife Birdie named the sprinkler “Rainbird”, liking the sound of the name. This became the name of the company Orton started in 1938 in Azusa, CA to manufacture his sprinkler invention.
The Rainbird Model A sprinkler was released in 1939 and was a success, enabling the company’s growth. Rainbird incorporated as a company in 1942 and continued expanding its product line.
Key dates in Rainbird’s early history:
– 1933: Orton Englehart invents the impact sprinkler
– 1938: Englehart starts the company to make his invention
– 1939: Rainbird Model A sprinkler launched
– 1942: Company incorporates as Rainbird Sprinkler Mfg. Corp
So in summary, Rainbird was founded by Orton Englehart in the 1930s after he invented the impact sprinkler which revolutionized irrigation. The company grew rapidly from the success of his invention.
What are some key events and innovations in Rainbird’s history?
Some notable events and innovations in Rainbird’s 90+ year history include:
– 1950s: Expanded into gear-driven rotors and residential products
– 1960s: Opened manufacturing in France; developed the first plastic pop-up sprinkler heads
– 1970s: Expanded to Australia and South America; introduced water-saving nozzles
– 1980s: Release of the 5000 series rotors; manufacturing expanded to Mexico
– 1990s: SUSAN controllers launched; China manufacturing started; Rainbird.com website launched
– 2000s: ESP-Modular controller system released; Rainbird acquired Hunter Industries but later divested it
– 2010s: Next generation 1800 spray heads released; IQ Platform smart controllers launched
Rainbird has continually introduced new irrigation products and technologies that have advanced water-efficiency and irrigation performance. Key innovations include plastic popup sprinklers, water-saving nozzles, advanced rotor technology, smart controllers and precision irrigation capabilities.
Rainbird’s Products and Technology
What are Rainbird’s main product categories?
Rainbird categorizes its wide range of irrigation products into the following main categories:
Product Category | Description | Example Products |
---|---|---|
Spray Heads | Low precipitation rate sprinklers for watering lawns and smaller areas | 1800 Series, Uni-Spray, 8005 Series |
Rotors | Gear-driven rotary sprinklers that can cover larger distances | 5000 Series, 5004 Series, Falcon Rotors |
Nozzles | Water-efficient nozzles for spray heads and rotors | Rain Curtain, Rotary Nozzles |
Valves | Electric and manual valves for controlling water flow | PGA/PGV Valves, PEB Valves |
Controllers | Automatic irrigation controllers for setting watering schedules | ESP-LXME, ESP-TM2, ESP-ME3 |
Drip Irrigation | Low-flow drip emitters, tubing and micro-sprays | Xeri-Bubblers, Xeri-Sprays, Techline CV Dripline |
This covers the major categories of irrigation equipment that Rainbird manufactures. The company offers thousands of products across these segments for both residential and commercial applications.
What technology and innovations set Rainbird’s products apart?
Some of the key technology and innovations that make Rainbird’s products unique include:
– **Water-saving technologies** – Rainbird’s Precision Rotating Nozzles, Matched Precipitation Rate nozzles and pressure regulation features help cut water waste. Reduces overspray and runoff.
– **Dual trajectory rotors** – Rotors like the 5000 Series with dual trajectory can switch between two arc settings to tailor watering patterns. Provides flexibility.
– **FloStop anti-drain valve** – Available on valves to prevent low-head drainage and water waste when the sprinkler system shuts off. An eco-friendly feature.
– **IQ Platform** – Highly programmable controllers with smart features like cloud connectivity, flow management and advanced sensor integration. Enables remote control, monitoring and intelligent watering.
– **Variable arc nozzles** – Nozzles designed with flexibility to adjust the arc and radius using interchangeable color-coded parts on the same nozzle body. Customizable watering.
– **High quality materials** – Rainbird uses heavy duty ABS plastic, stainless steel springs, brass valves and quality components throughout its products for durability and longevity.
Rainbird’s continual innovation in eco-friendly water conservation and smart technologies help differentiate its offerings in the market. Longevity and performance are also highlights.
Rainbird’s Current Operations
Where are Rainbird products manufactured today?
Rainbird has manufacturing facilities located around the world which allow it to serve global markets. Its main manufacturing sites include:
– Azusa, California – Rainbird’s longtime headquarters and original manufacturing site since the 1930s. Still a major plant today.
– Tijuana, Mexico – A 300,000 square foot plant opened in 1998 that serves as Rainbird’s largest facility. Manufactures valves, sprinklers and other main products.
– Tangier, Morocco – Manufacturing center opened in 2012 focused on plastic components and sprinkler assembly.
– Wuhan, China – Chinese plant opened in 2004 produces valves, controllers and other electronics.
– Other smaller sites in France, Sweden and Australia
This global manufacturing footprint allows Rainbird to serve markets worldwide with locally tailored products. The US and Mexico are its largest manufacturing hubs.
How has Rainbird expanded its business in emerging markets?
Rainbird has made a strong push into emerging markets in regions like Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Latin America to serve long-term growth opportunities in these areas. Initiatives have included:
– **Localized manufacturing** – Building manufacturing and assembly plants in China and Morocco improves access and cost-efficiency for nearby markets
– **Partnerships with regional distributors** – Developing an extensive network of distributors across emerging regions to market and sell Rainbird products locally.
– **Adapted products** – Tailoring parts of the product catalog for local climate conditions, regulations, pricing and customer needs in each region.
– **Localized content** – Providing extensive product literature, marketing material and technical support content translated into the main languages of key emerging markets.
– **Training programs** – Conducting frequent training seminars for distributors and irrigation contractors in emerging regions to build familiarity with Rainbird’s technologies and best practices.
Through these efforts, Rainbird has significantly grown its business in developing markets across Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America. Sales outside North America accounted for around 48% of total revenue in 2021.
Rainbird’s Smart Irrigation and Sustainability Focus
How do Rainbird’s products help save water?
Water conservation has been a core focus for Rainbird throughout its history. Its products help save water in numerous ways:
– **Precision sprinklers and nozzles** – Minimize overspray, misting and runoff compared to conventional equipment
– **Matched precipitation rate** – Sprinklers and nozzles apply water uniformly to avoid overwatering some areas
– **Rotary nozzles** – Slow, rotating spray for less misting and evaporation
– **Pressure regulation** – Reduces water waste from excessive pressure and spraying
– ** IQ smart controllers** – Advanced scheduling, flow management and weather sensing for intelligent watering
– **Drip irrigation** – Ultra-low flow emitters and micro-sprays apply water directly to roots
– **FloStop anti-drain valves** – Prevents water drainage when system is off
Independent testing has verified significant water savings. For example, a 2005 study by the Irvine Ranch Water District found Rainbird’s Precision Rotating Nozzles reduced water use by nearly 20% compared to conventional sprays.
What smart irrigation technologies does Rainbird offer?
Rainbird is a leader in smart irrigation controllers and software that leverage data and connectivity to optimize water efficiency. Its IQ Platform includes:
– **IQ advanced controllers** – Highly programmable units with weather adaptation, flow management and remote connectivity
– **IQ v2.0**- Next generation controller launched in 2022 with hyper-local weather sensing
– **IQ Cloud** – Allows real-time system control, monitoring and adjustments from any web-enabled device
– **Soil moisture sensors** – Wireless sensors measure soil moisture and feedback data to the controller to adjust schedules
– **IQ Flow Manager** – Tracks flow rate to identify leaks and improper operation in real time
– **Landscape IQ** – Professional irrigation management software for multi-site management and analytics
These technologies provide data-driven precision irrigation to minimize water waste. Adoption of smart controllers continues to gain traction.
What sustainability initiatives does Rainbird pursue beyond water conservation?
Rainbird has implemented many sustainability initiatives:
– **Recycling programs** – Recycles nearly 100% of plastic waste from its factories as well as used aluminum and brass
– **Eco-friendly facilities** – Its Azusa headquarters uses renewable energy and was LEED Gold certified in 2015
– **Sustainable materials** – Seeks to minimize use of solvents in production and utilizes recycled resins in products like valves
– **Ethical business** – Follows a Code of Conduct covering human rights, ethics and environmental responsibility
– **Product innovations** – Continues to develop new technologies that conserve resources and minimize carbon footprint
– **Industry engagement** – Active in promoting sustainable landscaping and efficient irrigation through initiatives like the EPA WaterSense program
Rainbird was notably one of the first members of the USGBC which created the LEED green building standards. Its current sustainability report details many of its eco-friendly programs and practices.
Conclusion
In summary, Rainbird remains an active leader in the irrigation industry since its founding in 1933. The company manufactures a wide range of sprinklers, nozzles, valves, controllers and other irrigation equipment from facilities around the world.
Rainbird maintains a strong market position through continued innovation in water-efficient and smart technologies. Its focus on sustainable and precision irrigation solutions has enabled Rainbird to continue thriving for over 90 years, and will likely sustain its success well into the future.