CULTIVATIONTIPS DELPHY Starting at the ceiling
A
Air distribution literally starts at the ceiling in mushroom growing. This is where the air ducts are suspended and air is usually blown downwards (and in some case partially sideways). What is more important, however, is how the air rises again. The ascending air needs the resistance of the ceiling so it can twist over the beds and make its way back to the air ducts. This implies that the ceiling height relative to the upper bed and the shape of the ceiling impact directly on air distribution over the upper beds. Any design errors here will have repercussions and cause evaporation and quality-related problems on the upper beds during the farm’s entire lifespan! The shape and height of the ceiling should therefore form an integral component of the air distribution system, and their design should be carefully detailed right from the start.
A. Straight ceiling B
To achieve good air distribution, a straight ceiling is preferable. The number of beds is fl exible, but there are usually two or four rows of shelves. Other confi gurations are also possible without compromising the air distribution pattern. In addition to the right path width, and considering the mutual distance between the beds, the distance between the upper bed and the ceiling is vitally important. This should preferably be between 70 and 90 cm to create good air distribution over the upper beds. If openings are made along the sides of the ducts, this distance can be increased to maximum 100-120 cm. Ceilings further away will irrevocably lead to problems with evaporation on the upper beds.
B. Curved ceiling C
By Jan Gielen, Delphy Mushrooms Climate & Energy Specialist
j.gielen@
delphy.nl
Photos: Delphy
Curved ceilings are also commonly used, particularly in countries where mushrooms are grown in sheds. With this type of ceiling, reasonably good air distribution can be achieved with two rows of beds, provided the distance between the upper bed and the highest part of the ceiling is not too large. The air is blown downwards from one air duct suspended in the centre of the ceiling and then circulates via the sidewalls and curve in the ceiling back to the air duct. As no ducts can be suspended above the outer paths, air distribution can become problematic if there are more than two rows of beds. Measurements using smoke and customised solutions can often improve the situation with more than two rows of beds, but air distribution will never reach the same level as in rooms with a straight ceiling.
C. A-type ceiling
Occasionally, A-type ceilings are also used. The air distribution with an A-type ceiling is the same as with a curved ceiling, so the description for the curved ceiling also applies to an A-type ceiling.
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