Hockey pitches tend to be unusual in that the playing surface does not want to have sprinklers on the playing surface.

A system has been developed that use Rain Guns (these have a very large throw) installed in a purpose made steel chamber.  The principle is the same with a tank and an irrigation controller which is on a timer. 

When the system starts the controller raises the lid on the chambers.  Once fully open the automatic valves operate the rain guns until the program has completed its cycle, the sprinklers will then shut off and the lids will close. 

Each gun is fitted with safety interlocks that prevent the operation of the sprinklers unless the lid is fully opened.  The lids can be fitted with ‘Astro turf’ type artificial grass.   For a standard size hockey pitch six of these guns are required, three being installed down each side.