CPS: Continuous Production Systems Part IV
Thermal Reflector Covers - These made-to-measure thermal covers improve
growroom cooling efficiencies; saving money and the environment.
does not escape into the growing area, helping to further reduce
the cooling requirements of the growing area and, therefore, the
overall efficiency of the CPS endeavor.
If you wish to eliminate the discharge of air from your aircooled lighting, there are special water cooled heat exchangers
that can be used in line with your air cooled lighting system,
which simply circulates within the growing area (no outside
intake or exhaust). As long as the water going to the in line
ducting heat exchanger is around 65°F, the air in the grow room
will not heat up as quickly, reducing the cycling frequency of
energy hungry air-conditioners. While air-conditioners work
great to keep CPS installations cool, they use an awful lot of
energy, relative to the amount of cooling they perform. Water
cooled in line heat exchangers in the modified “open” air cooled
lighting system can keep things cool for a fraction of the energy
required versus an AC unit by simply using a ¼ HP water chiller
(as used with hydroponic reservoirs). The chiller unit will draw
less than 250 watts on average, and helps you to keep your
cooling water at 65°F or less, depending on the set point.
However, for the ultimate in CPS, look to water cooled
lighting. As featured in the Urban CEA series of articles, there
are a lot of benefits. Firstly, liquid cooling is a much more
efficient process versus air cooling. Whether a super-bike or
performance car, chances are it’s water-cooled.
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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - March 2009