1INDUSTRIAL GREENHOUSE COOLING

INDUSTRIAL GREENHOUSE COOLING

        Cooling your farm's greenhouses: Fresh air will let your business thrive

Cooling is essential during hot weather to maintain the required microclimate and support the proper development of plants. Plants thrive when they are in a comfortable environment. This implies that when temperatures rise, it is important to ensure proper ventilation and cooling.

Let's dive into one of the often overlooked factors in greenhouses - humidity. We will describe how greenhouse ventilation is implemented and the systems employed to cool the greenhouse while managing humidity levels.

Let's talk about why humidity is crucial and how you can preserve the health of plants and encourage them to yield more, resulting in increased profitability.

The Leaf Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD)

The concept of vapor pressure deficit, or VPD, exists.

The Leaf Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) is a parameter that quantifies the connection between a plant and the humidity level in the air. It signifies the variance between the moisture present on the leaf's surface and the humidity in the surrounding atmosphere.

The higher the Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD), the easier it is for water to evaporate. Let's explain the impact on plants:

01

When there is a high vapor pressure deficit, which means that the humidity around the leaf surface is low, and the plant cannot transpire enough water to meet its transpiration requirements, this can result in the plant wilting, drying out, and suffering damage.

02

When the vapor pressure deficit is too low, indicating that the surrounding air is excessively humid and transpiration from the leaf surface is minimal, this can result in insufficient water and nutrient transport within the plant. It can also lead to reduced cooling capacity and potential harm to the plant under extremely high temperatures.

Certainly, during the summer season, ventilation and cooling systems are employed to maintain not only the right temperature but also the humidity, which is essential for the proper functioning of plants.

GREENHOUSE VENTILATION

Ventilation and gas exchange within the greenhouse are of paramount importance for maintaining the well-being of plants. They ensure the supply of oxygen and carbon dioxide to both the upper portions and the roots of the plants, while also effectively removing water vapor when needed.

The rate of air movement is a crucial factor in the microclimate, along with temperature and relative humidity. Stagnant air can hinder gas exchange, a deficiency of carbon dioxide can impede photosynthesis, and slow removal of water vapor can restrict transpiration.

To ensure plants are comfortable, it is important to have air movement, which mimics the natural environment. The ideal airspeed inside the greenhouse should fall within the range of 0.3-0.5 m/s. This can be attained by combining ventilation systems with internal air circulation using fans.

Ventilation System

The ventilation system is comprised of louvered windows that can be opened and closed using a rail mechanism. These windows are installed on both sides of the greenhouse roof's ridge in an alternating pattern.

The mechanism for opening and closing the greenhouse windows is designed to lift or lower them simultaneously. Each mechanism comprises gear reducers with racks mounted on the upper truss of the construction. The ends of these racks are linked to tubular rods on the distribution shaft, which are aligned along the entire length of the ventilation system.

The rods are located in roller guides and connected to rods linked to the roof wondow. All rack-and-pinion reducers of the mechanism are connected in sequence to the drive shaft from the motor reducer located in the center of the ventilation section.

When the motor is turned on, the drive and distribution shafts rotate. This causes the racks to extend, moving the rods, which in turn raise and lower the window.

This method allows for the ventilation of a greenhouse of any size.

In all areas of the greenhouse, the opening vents cover up to 35% of the greenhouse roof area, ensuring the intake of the necessary volume of external air. The angle of the vent openings can be adjusted to a maximum of 50°, and the size of the ventilation opening is automatically controlled based on air temperature, wind speed, and precipitation.

Once air has entered the greenhouse, it is crucial to distribute it uniformly throughout the entire greenhouse. To achieve this, a system for circulating air is used. The purpose of the greenhouse air circulation system is to ensure even temperature distribution within the greenhouse. It comprises axial fans with adjustable speeds, typically positioned beneath the trusses to promptly distribute the incoming air.

In warmer climates, you can additionally consider the installation of under-gutter fans. Their design is rather simple: these fans push air beneath the growing gutters through polyethylene tubes with holes. These same tubes can also be utilized for carbon dioxide regulation. In our specific conditions, the efficiency of implementing this system should be evaluated individually, considering economic feasibility.

The ventilation and air circulation system in the greenhouse impacts following:

01

uniform distribution of temperature 

02

reduces overheating of plants

03

stimulates plants' physiological processes

04

eliminates zones with elevated humidity during the winter-spring and autumn-winter periods when natural ventilation through vents is not possible or less effective. Most importantly, this system allows plants to experience conditions similar to those in nature

Furthermore, additional systems can be incorporated into the greenhouse as required to assist in cooling the air and managing humidity levels for both the atmosphere and the plants.

FOGGING SYSTEM

When used alongside screening to reduce air temperatures during the summer months, we suggest using an evaporative cooling and air humidification system, commonly referred to as a "mist system." In our view, this represents the most efficient solution available for our specific regions at present. This system can effectively lower the temperature inside the greenhouse by as much as 7°C.

The fogging system is used to establish the desired relative humidity in the greenhouse, contributing to the maintenance of an ideal microenvironment. There are two main varieties: high and low pressure.

When choosing between high-pressure and low-pressure systems, we strongly recommend high-pressure systems. Low-pressure systems produce larger water droplets that can potentially lead to plant diseases.

The misting system consists of a high-pressure pump (up to 100 mbar) and a network of pipes with nozzles.

These nozzles are generating fine droplets with a diameter of less than 10 μm. This process of moisture evaporation from the air elevates its relative humidity, positively influencing plant transpiration and fostering robust growth, development, and higher yields.

ROOF SPRINKLING

Roof sprinkling is another technique for cooling a greenhouse. This system involves the use of sprinklers positioned on the greenhouse roof. During hot periods, a layer of water is applied to the greenhouse roof using these sprinklers. Cooling is achieved through the evaporation of water from the glass roof, and it also introduces cooler, moist air into the greenhouse.

In this system, a continuous water supply must be available on the roof for effective cooling. When the water evaporates, the cooling effect stops. There are several nuances associated with this system:

First of all, when water evaporates, any dirt in the water can become encrusted on the roof, making it challenging to clean.

Secondly, this system does not raise the humidity levels inside the greenhouse.

Thirdly, it is essential to drain the entire system of water and refrain from using it until warmer weather returns before the onset of frost.

In general, the use of roof sprinklers can lead to a decrease in the greenhouse's internal temperature by as much as 5°C.

PAD&FAN SYSTEM

Let's discuss one of the initial methods of greenhouse cooling - the evaporative cooling system using pad and fan system." This system has a history of over 50 years and involves the use of a porous material "pad" installed in the greenhouse's side wall, along with a water supply system and a exhaust fan.

The basic operation is fairly simple: the pads are dampened with water, and a fan pushes the moisture into the greenhouse. Consequently, the humidified air absorbs some of the heat within the greenhouse, while the saturated hot air is expelled from the greenhouse using fans.
It's worth noting that this system is efficient in regions where the external humidity is not greater than 60%. In other words, it is well-suited for hot and dry climates. Taking into account the energy consumption of the fans, we believe that this system may not be suitable for our specific conditions.

To sum it up, one of the most budget-friendly and efficient cooling methods is the presence of plants. The greater the leafy canopy of the plants, the cooler the greenhouse environment becomes. Plant transpiration serves as a natural form of air conditioning. Surprised? Give it a try! Compare a greenhouse with thriving plants to one without, and you'll immediately sense the contrast.

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2COMMERCIAL GREENHOUSE COOLING

COMMERCIAL GREENHOUSE COOLING

        Cooling your farm's greenhouses: Fresh air will let your business thrive

Cooling during the hot seasons is crucial for maintaining the necessary microclimate and proper development of plants. Plants thrive and produce well when they are comfortable. This means that ventilation and cooling are essential when it's hot.

In this section, we'll cover one of the most underrated factors in greenhouse management – humidity. We'll explain how greenhouses are ventilated, what systems are used for cooling, and how to regulate humidity levels.

VAPOR PRESSURE DEFICIT

Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) is a concept used to describe the relationship between a plant and the humidity of the surrounding air. The VPD of a plant's leaf is the difference between the moisture on the surface of the leaf and the moisture in the surrounding air.

The higher the vapor pressure deficit, the easier it is for water to evaporate. Let's explain its impact on the plant:

The higher the vapor pressure deficit (VPD), the easier it is for water to evaporate. Let's delve into its impact on the plant:

01

When the vapor pressure deficit (VPD) is high, meaning the air humidity is low relative to the leaf surface, and the plant cannot evaporate enough water to meet its evaporative demand, it can lead to plant wilting, dehydration, and potential damage to the plant.

02

When the VPD is too low, the surrounding air is so saturated with moisture that evaporation from the leaf surface is virtually non-existent. This can result in inadequate water and nutrient transport within the plant. Additionally, it may lead to reduced cooling and potential plant damage at very high temperatures.

For the proper functionality of plants it's crucial to maintain not only an appropriate temperature but also the right humidity level. During the summer, ventilation and cooling systems are utilized to achieve this balance.

GREENHOUSE VENTILATION

Air movement speed is a crucial microclimate factor alongside temperature and relative humidity. Stagnant air hampers gas exchange, a carbon dioxide deficiency weakens photosynthesis, and excessively slow water vapor removal limits transpiration.

To ensure a comfortable environment for plants, air movement is necessary to mimic natural conditions and create a natural effect. The optimal air movement speed in a greenhouse should be within the range of 0.3-0.5 m/s. This can be achieved through a combination of ventilation systems and internal greenhouse air circulation using fans.

VENTILATION SYSTEM

Most commercial greenhouses are designed for cultivation during hot periods, thus it's beneficial to consider the option of opening side walls. This facilitates maximum air movement and ensures comfort for the plants.

When air enters the greenhouse, especially if the side walls are lowered, it's crucial to distribute it evenly across the area. An air circulation system is employed for this purpose. The greenhouse air recirculation system aims to evenly distribute temperature fields. It consists of axial fans whose speed can be adjusted. The classical placement of these fans is under the trusses, which allows for immediate air distribution as soon as it enters the greenhouse.

THE GREENHOUSE VENTILATION AND AIR RECIRCULATION SYSTEM PROVIDES:

01

Even distribution of temperature layers.

02

Reduces plant overheating.

03

Stimulates physiological processes in plants.

04

. Eliminates zones of high humidity during the winter-spring and autumn-winter periods when natural ventilation through vents is impossible or ineffective. Importantly, this system allows plants to feel as if they are in their natural habitat

Furthermore, greenhouses can be equipped with additional systems as needed, which help to cool the air and regulate humidity for both the air and the plants.

EVAPORATIVE COOLING AND AIR HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM

In conjunction with shading to reduce air temperature during the summer, we recommend an evaporative cooling and air humidification system, also known as "fogging" and "mist system." This is one of the most effective systems available for lowering the greenhouse temperature by up to 7°C.

The evaporative cooling is used to create a relative humidity level within the greenhouse with the aim of maintaining an active microclimate.

When choosing between high-pressure and low-pressure systems, we strongly recommend the high-pressure option. Low pressure produces larger droplets, which can lead to plant diseases.

The mist system consists of a high-pressure pump (up to 100 mbar) and a piping system with nozzles that create a fine mist (droplet diameter less than 10 micrometers). The evaporation of moisture from the air increases its relative humidity, which positively affects plant transpiration and promotes healthy growth, development, and yield increases.

EVAPORATIVE COOLING SYSTEM "PAD & FAN"

The operating principle is simple: pads are kept moist with water, and a fan blows moisture into the greenhouse. As a result, the humidified air absorbs some of the heat inside the greenhouse, and the saturated hot air is expelled from the greenhouse by fans.

It's less commonly known that this system is effective only if the external air humidity is no more than 60%. In other words, this system is suitable for hot, dry climates. Considering the energy consumption of the fans, in our opinion, this system may not be ideal for our conditions.

In conclusion, it's noteworthy that one of the most cost-effective and efficient cooling methods is the plants themselves. The more foliage the plants have, the cooler the greenhouse. Plant transpiration acts as nature's best air conditioning. Surprised? Check for yourself! Visit a greenhouse filled with plants during summer, and then one without any plants. You'll immediately feel the difference!

Looking for the right solution for your greenhouse? Let us to offer optimal solutions for any challenge presented!

We will help you select a high-quality and effective system that is perfectly suited for you

Get in touch
3HOBBY GREENHOUSE COOLING

HOBBY GREENHOUSE COOLING

        Keeping cool during hot summers provides comfort for both plants and you

Cooling during the hotter months is essential for maintaining the necessary microclimate and proper development of plants. Plants flourish and bear fruit well when they are in a comfortable environment. This means that when it's hot, ventilation and cooling are necessary.

In this section, we'll explore one of the most underrated factors in greenhouse management - humidity.

We'll explain how greenhouses are ventilated, what systems are used for cooling, and how to manage humidity levels.

VAPOR PRESSURE DEFICIT

Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) is a concept used to describe the relationship between a plant and the humidity of the surrounding air. The VPD of a plant's leaf is the difference between the moisture on the surface of the leaf and the moisture in the surrounding air.

The higher the vapor pressure deficit, the easier it is for water to evaporate. Let's explain its impact on the plant:

The higher the vapor pressure deficit (VPD), the easier it is for water to evaporate. Let's delve into its impact on the plant:

01

When the vapor pressure deficit (VPD) is high, meaning the air humidity is low relative to the leaf surface, and the plant cannot evaporate enough water to meet its evaporative demand, it can lead to plant wilting, dehydration, and potential damage to the plant.

02

When the VPD is too low, the surrounding air is so saturated with moisture that evaporation from the leaf surface is virtually non-existent. This can result in inadequate water and nutrient transport within the plant. Additionally, it may lead to reduced cooling and potential plant damage at very high temperatures.

For the proper functionality of plants it's crucial to maintain not only an appropriate temperature but also the right humidity level. During the summer, ventilation and cooling systems are utilized to achieve this balance.

GREENHOUSE VENTILATION

Air movement speed is a crucial microclimate factor alongside temperature and relative humidity. Stagnant air hampers gas exchange, a carbon dioxide deficiency weakens photosynthesis, and excessively slow water vapor removal limits transpiration.

To ensure a comfortable environment for plants, air movement is necessary to mimic natural conditions and create a natural effect. The optimal air movement speed in a greenhouse should be within the range of 0.3-0.5 m/s. This can be achieved through a combination of ventilation systems and internal greenhouse air circulation using fans.

VENTILATION SYSTEM

The ventilation system consists of ventilation windows (vents) that can be opened and closed manually or with an automatic opener. Vents are installed on one or both sides of the greenhouse's ridge.

Windows with fans create maximum comfort for both plants and people.

THE GREENHOUSE VENTILATION AND AIR RECIRCULATION SYSTEM CREATES:

01

Reduces plant overheating,

02

Stimulates their physiological processes,

03

Eliminates zones of high humidity during the winter-spring and autumn-winter periods when natural ventilation through vents is not possible or is inefficient. Importantly, this system allows plants to feel as though they are in their natural habitat.

Additionally, the greenhouse can be equipped with extra systems as needed, which assist in cooling the air and regulating both air and plant humidity.

EVAPORATIVE COOLING AND AIR HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM

The evaporative cooling and air humidification system is utilized to create a relative humidity within the greenhouse, aiming to maintain an active microclimate. When choosing between high and low pressure systems, we strongly recommend the high-pressure option. Low pressure produces larger water droplets, which can lead to plant diseases.

The misting system includes a high-pressure pump (up to 100 mbar) and a network of pipes with nozzles that generate a fine mist (droplet diameter less than 10 micrometers).

This increase in air's relative humidity due to moisture evaporation positively impacts plant transpiration, fostering robust growth, development, and enhanced yields.

In conclusion, it's worth noting that one of the most cost-effective and efficient cooling methods is the plants themselves. The more plant foliage, the cooler the greenhouse becomes. Plant transpiration is nature's best air conditioning. Surprised? Give it a try! Visit a greenhouse filled with plants during the summer, and then one without plants. You'll feel the difference immediately!

Looking for the right solution for your greenhouse? We're here to assist you in selecting a high-quality and effective system that perfectly suits your needs. Give us a call!

We're here to help you find a high-quality and efficient system that's just right for you.

Get in touch