Sunshine Board Multi-Span Greenhouses: The Benefits of Using PC Hollow Boards

In recent years, multi-span greenhouses have become popular within the agricultural sector, particularly in northern regions where enhanced insulation is required to maintain warmth during winter. Multi-span greenhouses are usually constructed with durable, transparent materials like glass or polycarbonate (PC) hollow boards to support plant growth through optimal light penetration and effective insulation. While PC corrugated sheets may be familiar in other structures, they aren't typically suitable for greenhouses due to their lower insulation performance. This article will dive into why PC hollow boards are the ideal choice for multi-span greenhouses, examining everything from their structure to their thermal performance.

1. What Is a Multi-Span Greenhouse?

A multi-span greenhouse is a type of structure designed to create an extended, controlled environment for plants. It connects multiple greenhouse sections, or "spans," to form a larger, single unit that maximizes space. This structure is particularly favored in colder climates for its ability to retain warmth and conserve energy.

2. Common Covering Materials in Multi-Span Greenhouses

In multi-span greenhouses, glass and PC hollow boards are the primary choices for covering material. Both materials allow sunlight to penetrate and warm the space, essential for photosynthesis. However, PC hollow boards have gained popularity for their specific advantages in insulation and lightweight construction, making them a more practical choice for northern climates.

3. Why PC Hollow Boards Are Preferred Over Corrugated Tiles

While PC corrugated tiles offer certain benefits, including UV blocking and mechanical stability, they are typically used for shade structures such as parking sheds rather than greenhouses. This is mainly due to their thin profile, which generally maxes out at 3 mm, making them inadequate for the insulation requirements of greenhouse settings. Additionally, corrugated tiles are less aesthetically pleasing in a greenhouse context and can complicate water drainage and light transmission.

4. Structural Design of Multi-Span Greenhouses

The frame of a multi-span greenhouse is designed to withstand environmental stresses like wind and snow, and it's usually constructed with hot-dip galvanized square steel for durability and resistance to corrosion. The framework often includes:

• Square or rectangular steel columns: These provide the core structure and stability.

• Herringbone brackets: Located on the roof to reduce weight load and improve water drainage.

The materials for these frames are carefully chosen to integrate with PC hollow boards or glass, utilizing aluminum standard parts for efficient installation and airtight sealing.

5. Insulation and Thermal Performance with PC Hollow Boards

One of the standout benefits of PC hollow boards is their impressive thermal insulation properties. Typically ranging from 8 mm to 10 mm in thickness, these boards have a high thermal insulation coefficient of up to 49%, allowing for significant heat retention. In winter, when greenhouses require supplementary heating, the insulation provided by these boards minimizes heat loss, enhancing energy efficiency.

6. The Role of Aluminum Standard Parts in Multi-Span Greenhouse Construction

When it comes to installation, aluminum standard parts are essential for securing the covering materials. They ensure a strong, durable bond between the structure and the PC hollow boards or glass, preventing heat leakage and maintaining a sealed environment. These parts are an industry standard due to their precise manufacturing and compatibility with various greenhouse designs.

7. PC Hollow Boards vs. PC Corrugated Tiles: A Comparison

8. How PC Hollow Boards Enhance Light Transmission

The design of PC hollow boards allows for excellent light transmission with minimal distortion, supporting plant health by maximizing exposure to natural light. Unlike corrugated tiles, which can disrupt light flow and create unwanted shadows, PC hollow boards provide a balanced environment ideal for photosynthetic needs.

9. Cost-Effectiveness of Using PC Hollow Boards

Compared to glass, PC hollow boards are generally more affordable while still providing strong insulation and light transmission. The market price for double-layer PC hollow boards is around 40 yuan per square meter for 8 mm thickness, making it a cost-effective choice without compromising quality.

10. Why PC Corrugated Tiles Aren't Ideal for Multi-Span Greenhouses

PC corrugated tiles, while useful for various applications like bicycle sheds and waiting shelters, don't meet the specific demands of greenhouses. Their thinner build, typically not exceeding 3 mm, means they fall short in terms of insulation and thermal regulation. Additionally, the wavy structure of corrugated tiles complicates the attachment process in greenhouse frames, often leading to issues with water leakage and structural integrity.

Conclusion

In summary, PC hollow boards are a practical and effective choice for multi-span greenhouses, particularly in regions requiring substantial insulation during cold seasons. These boards provide optimal thermal insulation, light transmission, and cost-effectiveness, supporting plant growth and energy savings alike. While PC corrugated tiles have their place in construction, they simply don’t meet the functional requirements of a greenhouse. For anyone planning a multi-span greenhouse project, PC hollow boards offer a dependable solution that balances performance with economic value.