Tomtech has recently upgraded ventilation systems installed in the Botanic Garden at the University of Dundee.
Located on nine and a half hectares and overlooking the River Tay, the Botanic Garden houses a diverse range of plant life, consisting of both indigenous British plants and important plants from across the world.
Researchers at the University of Dundee are using the plants for science and conservation - and students are using the gardens to carry out research as part of their coursework.
Due to its diverse horticultural needs, the university required a control system that could better monitor precise factors, including light, humidity, and temperature, to create ideal growing conditions.
“We are always excited to work with universities, helping to maintain the plants which researchers and students use to develop new understanding and visitors enjoy every day. The new system will automatically control the opening and closing of ventilation, improving its reliability,” says Krzysztof Hernik, Managing Director at Tomtech.
Before Tomtech’s installation, the university’s old greenhouse motors – which automate and control vents, screens, and other glasshouse infrastructure - were becoming unreliable, and ventilation was problematic.
This had a potentially harmful impact on the plants’ growth due to their specific temperature and humidity requirements.
Tomtech has now installed new Huima gear motors, designed specifically for use in glasshouses to improve the efficiency of ventilation and air quality.
They are more reliable and efficient than the existing motors and have double-limit switches to prevent them from overrunning. This ensures vents are always opened and closed correctly, providing the plants with the fresh air they need to thrive.
“We are very excited about the new ventilation system. It will allow us to better control the air quality and temperature in the glasshouses to ensure our plants can grow effectively. We’re confident this investment will help us continue to provide a truly unique and unforgettable experience for our 80,000 yearly visitors,” adds Kevin Frediani at the University of Dundee Botanic Garden.
The upgrade of the vent motors by Tomtech is part of a wider improvement project at the Botanic Garden which aims to improve sustainability by boosting efficiency and reducing waste.
For over 35 years, Tomtech have been a UK-leading provider of commercial greenhouse monitoring and control systems. Their systems are used to monitor and regulate light, heat, ventilation, fertigation, and nutrient dosing.
Their adaptive systems have been used on projects throughout the UK, Europe, and further afield to help grow bigger, better, and faster crops.
“We’re thrilled that our ventilation systems are being used to help students grow their horticultural knowledge in one of Scotland’s top universities. Being able to grow species of plants which usually wouldn’t be possible in the UK, is a fantastic use for greenhouses. And, giving students and researchers access to plants that aren’t native to the country is exciting!” concludes Krzysztof Hernik.
For more information:
Tomtech
www.tomtech.co.uk
