Shading systems are increasingly being installed in polytunnels

Whilst movable shading systems have been used for many years in traditional glass greenhouses, demand for climate control solutions is also growing in the polytunnel sector. Polytunnels are being developed in an increasingly professional manner, and with this comes a growing need for a more controllable growing climate.

Although polytunnels are often chosen because of their relatively low investment costs, climate control, crop quality, and energy efficiency are becoming increasingly important in this type of greenhouse as well. A movable shading system can make a significant contribution by protecting crops from solar radiation, temperature fluctuations, and other external influences.

A different greenhouse requires a different technical approach

A shading system in a polytunnel requires a different technical approach. The structure of a polytunnel is lighter, meaning the forces generated during the opening and closing of a screen must be absorbed and distributed differently.Van der Valk Horti Systems developed the ValkPoly+ system specifically for this application. This semi-tension-and-push system is designed for polytunnels and uses a modified profile structure and a different method of force distribution. The result is a cost-effective solution tailored to the characteristics of a polytunnel, without compromising the reliability of the shading system. SchermNed recently completed two projects at ASTREDHOR Méditerranée in France using ValkPoly+. At this ornamental horticulture research centre, cultivation systems are continuously being developed and optimised

Development continues

The use of shading systems in polytunnels is not yet standard practice, but the trend is clearly emerging. As polytunnels are increasingly being used for the professional production of flowers, plants, and vegetables, demand is also growing for reliable climate control solutions developed specifically for this type of greenhouse. SchermNed is seeing this trend reflected more and more in practice. By working together with specialist suppliers such as Van der Valk Horti Systems, polytunnels can be equipped with high-quality shading systems tailored to both the structural characteristics of the greenhouse and the grower's requirements. Whereas a shading system in a polytunnel was still considered the exception just a few years ago, SchermNed expects this application to become an increasingly standard feature of modern polytunnels in the years ahead.