Spraying equipment
Spray equipment for frost control uses systems to spray water onto the vines, forming a protective layer of ice around the buds. Conventional and high-pressure systems improve coverage and efficiency, while misting systems diffuse a fine mist to stabilise the temperature.
This equipment is simple to install, often automated, and allows efficient management of water resources.
This equipment is simple to install, often automated, and allows efficient management of water resources.
Here are the main types of equipment in this category:
Conventional sprinkler systems
How it works: These systems use cannons or nozzles to spray water onto the vines. When the temperature falls below zero, the water freezes on the surface of the buds, forming a protective layer of ice that keeps the temperature of the plant tissue above 0°C.Configuration : Systems can be fixed or mobile, depending on the size of the farm. They are often fitted with timers and sensors to automatically activate spraying when temperatures fall.
Aspersion
- Spray range: Varies according to model, with capacities of up to 30 metres.
- Water flow rate: Typically 3 to 6 mm per hour for effective coverage.
Testimonial:
High-pressure sprinkler systems
How it works: These systems operate at a higher pressure, which allows better atomisation of the water, creating a fine mist that quickly sets around the buds.Benefits : Fine atomisation improves coverage and efficiency, providing faster and more uniform frost protection.
Technical specifications:
- Pressure: Generally operate at pressures in excess of 3 bar.
- Control systems: Often equipped with automatic control systems to optimise spraying according to weather conditions.
Fogging systems
How they work: These systems spray a very fine mist of water over the canopy of the vines. The mist creates an ambient humidity that helps to stabilise the temperature and prevent frost.Benefits: Less water is used compared with conventional sprinkler systems, and they are also effective at improving humidity in dry conditions.
Technical specifications:
- Drop size: Water droplets are atomised to a size of 50 to 100 microns, allowing rapid evaporation while offering protection.
- Water supply: Requires a water tank and a pumping system to maintain pressure.
Pumping system
A pumping system is needed to transport the water from the pond or borehole, powered by an independent engine or that of a tractor. The sprinklers spray the water onto the vines. The type of sprinkler will need to be adapted according to the authorised flow rate - macro-sprinkler (40m3/h) or micro-sprinkler (< 20 m3/h).
Tubing
Connections
Spray pumping station