Wim Peters Kwekerijen is dedicated to sustainable, future-focused cultivation, with cultivation specialist Henk van der Loos playing a pivotal role. Henk has been involved in the development of Svensson's innovative ClimaFlow system from the start. In this article, he shares his insights on ClimaFlow and how it has elevated tomato cultivation to new heights.
The challenge: achieving a consistent greenhouse climate
Henk: “When we first started using lighting in our greenhouses in 2006/2007, we noticed that there were a lot of temperature differences. Especially in cold periods below zero, the temperature could differ by five degrees between the greenhouse facade and the central path. This problem mainly came with cracks in our screens, but that brought other problems with it.”
During the development of a new greenhouse, Henk van der Loos was approached by Henk van der Meer, then founder and owner of Hinova, who was developing a system to improve temperature distribution in greenhouses. "Together, we began searching for a solution, and that’s how the VentilationJet System was created." In 2021, Svensson acquired Hinova, along with the ventilation system, which is now marketed under the name ClimaFlow.
A shift in perspective
Over the years, Henk has fine-tuned the use of ClimaFlow. "The system is straightforward to operate, but you need to learn how to use it to its full potential," he explains. "For instance, during warmer periods, you may need to adjust your approach. We found that sometimes it's necessary to modify the airflow to maintain the system’s dehumidifying effect."
ClimaFlow: from prototype to practice
Henk played a key role in the design of the ClimaFlow fans. "We worked together to find a fan that consumes minimal power and can be speed-controlled," Henk explains. The fans were tested in the new greenhouses at Wim Peters Kwekerijen, and the results were quickly apparent. "The temperature distribution in the greenhouse became much more uniform, enabling us to create a more active and healthier climate for the crops."
Practical advantages of ClimaFlow
“The biggest benefit of ClimaFlow is its ability to evenly distribute temperature and improve air movement in the greenhouse,” Henk explains. “By directing warm air down from beneath the closed screen, the system creates a consistent, uniform climate. This helps prevent moisture buildup, reducing the risk of mold and related issues. The airflow also eliminates cold, stagnant areas in the greenhouse.”
Beyond the homogeneous climate, Henk highlights other advantages of ClimaFlow. “With better temperature control, we require fewer screen gaps, which leads to energy savings. Additionally, the even air circulation improves plant quality. We've noticed a healthier balance in the greenhouse environment, with fewer diseases and pests taking hold.”
A sustainable step forward
Sustainability is a key focus at Wim Peters Kwekerijen. "Our goal is to grow as sustainably as possible, and ClimaFlow plays a significant role in that," says Henk. "By allowing us to keep the screens closed longer, we conserve energy. Plus, the system helps us maintain a healthy microclimate without relying on additional heat sources."
The future of ClimaFlow and upcoming innovations
Wim Peters Kwekerijen is constantly seeking ways to further optimize cultivation. While Henk is pleased with the current ClimaFlow system, he’s also focused on future advancements. “Technology is evolving quickly. For instance, there are now systems that can recover heat from the greenhouse, which is particularly promising as we aim to eliminate gas use entirely. Continuous innovation and adaptation to new techniques are essential for our progress.”
