As Cumulus Nederland, we were commissioned by Polytechniek B.V. to supply our sustainable and efficient adiabatic air humidification system based on compressed air. To contribute to an optimal growing climate in the chicory growing cells.
About Nieuw Bonaventura B.V.
Leen-Jan and Mieke Reedijk have been growing biodynamic chicory for about 30 years at their farm Nieuw Bonaventura on Boendersweg in 's-Gravendeel, which covers 175 hectares of land. They are true chicory specialists. You can taste their attention to the quality of the soil, the biodiversity around the farm and the crop being allowed to grow in peace and quiet in the beautiful white stumps. Not for nothing does the chicory carry the Demeter seal of approval for biodynamic agriculture and nutrition. It is very special that the Reedijk family pulls the chicory head and grows the chicory root. Very few growers do that. This allows them to supply chicory for months on end, because they control the entire growing schedule.
From May to September, they grow the chicory roots outside in the fields. From October to May, they plant the cloves in trays in dark cells and then a beautiful white head grows out of each clove in about three weeks. During those months, about 10 to 15 people are at work.
Energy-efficient air handling units
Ten air handling units for the climate in the culture cells were also delivered and installed. The air units are equipped with energy-efficient fans adjustable between 40 and 100 per cent, a cooling block for cooling, an electric element for heating and a mixing air system for indoor/outdoor air control. Also covered were the supply and installation of an air distribution system, a humidification system and a climate computer for the ten growing cells.
Operation of compressed air
The compressed air atomisers are fed by compressed air from the compressor. Due to the compressed air pressure, the water is atomised very finely and evaporates quickly. The compressed air atomisers are designed so that the humidification is completely drip-free, this is because the compressed air supports the droplet and the droplets are very small. Due to the unique patented design, the atomisers are self-cleaning and atomisation up to 12 degrees German hardness is possible without quickly clogging the atomisers.
Benefits of air assisted humidification
Fine atomisation;
Easily scalable;
Low investment cost;
Energy-efficient;
Low maintenance;
Self-cleaning.