The horticulture industry is facing a formidable obstacle in the form of escalating energy prices. To maintain profitability, it is imperative for the sector to curb its energy consumption, with enhanced insulation being a crucial initial step.
Recently, Phormium has unveiled a novel solution: Noctis Thermo. This 100% aluminum screen is not only highly energy-efficient but also affordably priced, making it an attractive option for growers seeking to mitigate the impact of rising energy costs.
Key Features of Noctis Thermo
Noctis Thermo boasts several standout technical features:
- Energy Savings: The screen can achieve a remarkable 72% reduction in energy consumption.
- Shading: It offers 99% shading, effectively preventing light pollution and meeting stringent requirements.
- Warranty: An 8-year warranty provides growers with added peace of mind.
Phormium’s unique weaving expertise, combined with its patented MEP™ (micro-encapsulated particles) technology, enables the integration of these features into a single, highly effective product.
Applications of Noctis Thermo
Noctis Thermo is versatile and suitable for three main applications:
(LED) Lit Crops: The screen’s energy-saving capabilities are particularly beneficial for crops that require artificial lighting.
Variable Shading: By combining a diffuse screen with Noctis Thermo, growers can optimize growing conditions and achieve uniform light distribution throughout the greenhouse.
Unlit Crops: The screen’s shading and energy-saving properties make it ideal for crops that do not require supplemental lighting.
How Noctis Thermo Achieves Energy Savings
Phormium’s MEP™ technology encapsulates microscopic aluminum particles within the yarns of Noctis Thermo. This results in a low transmission coefficient for thermal radiation, known as FIR transmissivity. The FIR transmissivity value of Noctis Thermo, as determined by Wageningen University & Research (WUR), is a mere 8%, significantly lower than the approximately 30% of traditional energy screens.
Additionally, the weaving pattern of Noctis Thermo ensures low porosity, reducing energy loss through the passage of warm air. The permeability value of Noctis Thermo, also determined by WUR, is 0.3310^-7, which is much lower than the approximately 0.610^-7 of traditional screens. This combination of low permeability and low FIR transmissivity results in the screen’s impressive 72% energy savings.
Shading and Energy Efficiency
Noctis Thermo’s 99% shading capability makes it an excellent light restriction screen. Unlike traditional screens, Noctis Thermo achieves this level of shading while also saving 72% of energy. This dual functionality is particularly valuable in ornamental horticulture, where energy-intensive crops such as ornamental plants can benefit from the screen’s enhanced thermal properties.
Experience Noctis Thermo at GreenTech Amsterdam
From June 10 to 12, Phormium will be exhibiting at GreenTech Amsterdam. Visitors are invited to booth 05.515 to learn more about Noctis Thermo and witness its exceptional insulation properties firsthand using thermal vision tools. Phormium’s team of experts will be on hand to discuss the latest advancements in climate screen technology.
As the horticulture industry navigates the challenges of rising energy costs, innovative solutions like Noctis Thermo offer a promising path forward, combining energy efficiency with affordability and practicality.
