Tarm Bilimleri Dergisi Journal of Agricultural Sciences

Tar. Bil. Der.

Dergi web sayfas: Journal homepage:

www.agri.ankara.edu.tr/dergi www.agri.ankara.edu.tr/journal

Performance Analysis of a Greenhouse Fan-Pad Cooling System:

Gradients of Horizontal Temperature and Relative Humidity
TARIM BLMLER DERGS JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES 21 (2015) 132-143

Mehmet Ali DAYIOLUa, Hasan Hseyin SLLELa

a
Ankara University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Machinery, 06130, Ankara, TURKEY

ARTICLE INFO
Research Article
Corresponding Author: Mehmet Ali DAYIOLU, E-mail: dayioglu@agri.ankara.edu.tr, Tel: +90 (312) 596 15 96
Received: 27 July 2014, Received in Revised Form: 01 October 2014, Accepted: 10 October 2014

ABSTRACT

An experimental study is conducted to determine the performance parameters of system, as well as gradients of
temperature and humidity along greenhouse when opening Fan-Pad cooling system. Measurements in the study were
carried out by using seven sensors for different locations, as well as portable instruments. For this purpose, the five
digital temperature and humidity sensors and two pyranometers were used during experiments. Among them, two
were located outside greenhouse for external measurements. The rest one pyranometer above the crop canopy, four
temperature and humidity sensors were mounted within the crop canopy along the greenhouse. Four sensors were placed
according to positions defined between pad and fan. According to the experiment results, the non-uniform temperature
changes, but approximately uniform humidity changes due to the crop transpiration were observed along greenhouse
from pad panels to exhaust fans. When the cooling system closed, hourly mean temperature and relative humidity from
Pad to Fan inside greenhouse changed between 3033 C and 3047%, respectively, at outside climate conditions of
32 C and 25%. After providing stabile cooling by opening Fan-Pad system, hourly mean temperature and relative
humidity along greenhouse from pad to fan ranged between 20 27 C, and 50 68%, respectively. The air temperature
entering to greenhouse with air velocity of 0.80.9 ms-1 through pad was approximately 1213 C lower than the outside
air temperature. The air temperature from Pad to Fan increased approximately by 7 C. The method of psychrometric
calculations was employed to determine the cooling efficiency of Fan-Pad system. According to the calculation result,
the average of air temperatures inside greenhouse was 24.5 C after achieving stable cooling for outside air temperature
of 31.4 C. The hourly mean cooling effect and cooling efficiency calculated for Fan-Pad system were determined to be
6.96 C and 76.8%, respectively.
Keywords: Cooling efficiency; Fan-Pad cooling system; Greenhouse; Psychrometric calculation; Temperature and
relative humidity

Sera Fan-Pad Soutma Sisteminin Performans Analizi: Yatay Scaklk

ve Bal Nem Deiimleri
ESER BLGS
Aratrma Makalesi
Sorumlu Yazar: Mehmet Ali DAYIOLU, E-posta: dayioglu@agri.ankara.edu.tr, Tel: +90 (312) 596 15 96
Geli Tarihi: 27 Temmuz 2014, Dzeltmelerin Gelii: 01 Ekim 2014, Kabul:10 Ekim 2014
Performance Analysis of a Greenhouse Fan-Pad Cooling System: Gradients of Horizontal..., Dayolu & Silleli

ZET

Fan-Pad soutma sistemi alrken sera boyunca oluan scaklk ve bal nem deiimleri ve soutma sistemi performans
parametrelerini saptamak iin deneysel bir alma yaplmtr. almada lmler yedi farkl noktaya yerletirilen
sensrler ve tanabilir lm cihazlar kullanlarak gerekletirilmitir. Bu amala, be dijital scaklk-nem sensr
ve iki gne nm sensr kullanlmtr. Sensrlerden ikisi sera dna, bir gne nm sensr bitki rts stne,
drt scaklk-nem sensr sera boyunca bitki rts iine yerletirilmitir. Drt sensrn yerleimi Pad ve Fan arasnda
tanmlanm konumlara gre yaplmtr. Elde edilen deney sonularna gre, Pad tarafndan fan tarafna sera boyunca
homojen olmayan scaklk deiimleri, ancak transpirasyon nedeniyle yaklak homojen kalan bal nem deiimleri
gzlemlenmitir. Soutma sistemi kapal olduu zaman, havann 32 C ve % 25 olduu koullarda, sera iinde Pad
tarafndan fan tarafna saatlik ortalama scaklk ve bal nem deerleri srasyla 3033 C ve % 30% 47 arasnda
deimitir. Fan-Pad sistemi altrlp kararl soutma salandktan sonra, sera boyunca saatlik ortalama scaklk ve
bal nem deerleri srasyla 20 27 C ve % 50 % 68, arasnda deimitir. Islak Pad yzeyini geerek yaklak
0.80.9 m s-1 hava hzla seraya giren hava scakl d hava scaklndan 1213 C daha dk olmutur. Pad tarafndan
fan tarafna sera boyunca hava scakl yaklak 7 C ykselmitir. Buharlamal Fan-Pad sisteminin soutma etkinliini
hesaplamak iin psikrometrik hesaplama yntemi kullanlmtr. Hesaplama sonucuna gre, d hava scaklnn
31.4 C olduu koullarda kararl soutma salandktan sonra sera iindeki ortalama scakln 24.5 C olduu
belirlenmitir. Fan-Pad sistemi iin hesaplanan saatlik ortalama soutma etkisi ve soutma etkinlii deerleri srasyla
6.96 C ve % 76.8 olarak saptanmtr.
Anahtar Kelimeler: Soutma etkinlii; Fan-Pad soutma sistemi; Sera; Psikrometrik hesaplama; Scaklk ve bal nem

Ankara niversitesi Ziraat Fakltesi

1. Introduction 2011). The system in which is suitable for hot and

Throughout the year, the demand for fresh vegetables
and fruits has increased from day to day. In order
to increase the amount of production of vegetables
and fruits in dry areas, the greenhouse production
period during the summer and autumn seasons can
be expanded. However, the accumulated heat within
the greenhouse due to the presence of high solar
radiation causes to rising of the internal temperature
(Tashoo et al 2014). Extreme temperatures inside
the greenhouse will limit the plant growth, as well
as its quality, eventually resulting in plant wilting
and death. Even in greenhouses with proper and
adequate circulation, the leaf temperature can be 5
10 C higher than the air temperature (von Zabeltitz
2011). Greenhouse crops must not be kept for long
time at temperatures between 30 and 35 C (Bailey
2006). If level of air temperature in greenhouses
where is used natural ventilation and shading system
is higher than 28 C, it is recommended using of
an artificial cooling system. Generally, evaporative
cooling for greenhouses are made by using fogging,
Fan-Pad cooling and misting methods (von Zabeltitz
dry climate conditions among these is the Fan - Pad
cooling system.
A Fan-Pad system consists of cellulose Pad
panels, exhaust fans, water circulation pump and
pipes. Pads and exhaust fans are located on opposing
walls to cool plants growing in between Pad and
Fan. Cellulose Pads have corrugated surfaces which
are suitable for passing water and air. When inlet
air passes through the wetted Pads, water evaporates
using its sensible heat. In thermodynamics, this is
known as an adiabatic process in which remains
the constant of enthalpy without heat loss or gain
(ASHRAE 2005).
Theoretical and experimental studies have
been conducted by many researchers on Fan-Pad
evaporative cooling systems. According to results
of Kittas et al (2001) and Jain & Tiwari (2002), the
internal greenhouse temperatures were lower about 10
C and 4-5 C than outside temperature, respectively.
Kittas et al (2003) presented and validated a model
to predict the temperature and humidity gradient
along the length of a large greenhouse equipped with

Ta r m B i l i m l e r i D e r g i s i J o u r n a l o f A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s 21 (2015) 132-143 133

Sera Fan-Pad Soutma Sisteminin Performans Analizi: Yatay Scaklk ve Bal Nem Deiimleri, Dayolu & Silleli
Fan-Pad cooling system. Willist (2003) proposed a
numerical model to predict air and crop temperatures
when cooling system is used, not used. Fuchs et al
(2006) developed a numerical model based on energy
balance equation for evaporative cooling. Sabeh
et al (2006) studied on amount of water needed for
the cooling system to be used in a semi-arid region.
Sethi & Sharma (2007) reviewed the available
cooling technologies such as ventilation, shading,
evaporative cooling (Fan-Pad, misting, fogging,
and roof cooling) and composite systems (earth-to-
air heat exchanger system and aquifer coupled heat
exchanger system). Kumar et al (2009) reviewed
on cooling technologies, design parameters, and
their effects on the microclimate. Malli et al (2011)
tested experimentally the thermal performances for
three different cellulose Pad thicknesses, such as 75,
100 and 150 mm. Lopez et al (2012) analyzed the
characteristics of airflow and temperature distribution
both Fan-Pad system and a low pressure fogging
using sonic anemometry in an empty greenhouses.
In this paper, an experimental study was
conducted to determine gradients of temperature
and humidity formed along a greenhouse cooled
when Fan-Pad system is used in Ankara conditions.
The performance parameters of cooling system were
calculated by using the method of psychrometric
calculation according to external and internal data
related with greenhouse environment.
2. Material and Methods
2.1. Greenhouse experiments
The experiments were conducted in a tomato
greenhouse from April to August of 2009 at typical
summer days with dry, sunny and cloudless. The
crop was grown in a Venlo style research greenhouse
located at University of Ankara, Turkey (39 57 39
N, 32 51 49 E, and 855 m altitude).
The floor area of the greenhouse is 64 m2 (8 m
x 8 m). The orientation of greenhouse is east-west
direction with an angle of 26.6 from North. The
greenhouse with galvanized steel frame is covered
with polycarbonate sheets at thickness of 4 mm with
134 Ta r m B i l i m l e r i D e r g i s i J o u r n a l o f A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s
double-walled and UV protection. The gutter and
ridge heights of greenhouse having the roof slope
of 26.5 are 3 m and 4 m, respectively. General
dimensions and position of the greenhouse are shown
in Figure 1. The greenhouse has six roof vents south-
facing and two vents north-facing, and is equipped
with Fan-Pad cooling system, as well as drip irrigation
system. During the experiments, the tomato crop was
grown in a soil medium. The greenhouse climate
system consists of natural ventilation, shading, Fan-
Pads cooling, high-pressure fogging, drip irrigation,
infrared heaters, and computer controller. During
experiments, natural ventilation, shading, irrigation
and Fan-Pad systems were actively used to ensure
proper climate for growing crop.
Figure 1- Schematic of experiment greenhouse used
for cooling experiments
ekil 1- Soutma deneylerinde kullanlan serann
ematik gsterimi
Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) seedlings
were transplanted into the greenhouse on April 01,
2009. The crop was configured in seven rows with
14 plants in each row, total 98 plants, as illustrated
in Figure 2. Row spacing and plant spacing were 0.9
m and 0.4 m, respectively.
Water need of plants is provided with drip
irrigation system which has dripper discharge rate
of 2 L h-1. A cable-drum drive system is used to
extend and retract from truss to truss for shading
of crop in greenhouse. The shading nets with solar
transmittance of 50% in two-pieces at height of 2.5
m above ground are available in the greenhouse.
21 (2015) 132-143
Performance Analysis of a Greenhouse Fan-Pad Cooling System: Gradients of Horizontal..., Dayolu & Silleli
However, the small sun flecks are occurrence on
crop in the greenhouse by reason of the space of 1 m
between these nets (Figure 2).
Figure 2- Configuration of crop, drip irrigation
system Fan-Pad cooling system, and shading nets in
experiment greenhouse
ekil 2- Deney serasnda bitki, damla sulama, Fan-Pad
soutma sistemi ve glgeleme perdesinin yerleimi
2.2. Fan-Pad cooling system
Evaporative cooling Pads that are at thickness of
100 mm are placed in two frames, width of 1.5 m
and height of 1 m. They mount on the bonded gas
concrete wall that is at height of 0.75 m above ground
at north side. The distance between the pads and the
first canopy line in rows was approximately 2 m.
Two exhaust fans are mounted to opposite side of the
greenhouse as shown in Figure 2. The rotation axis of
fans, which have the diameter of 0.5 m, is at a height
of 1.6 m above ground. The spacing between rotation
axes of fans on side wall is 2.85 m. Air flow capacity
of each fan with 0.37 kW electrical motor power is 7
m3 h-1 at zero static pressure. Airflow directions from
Pad to Fan are parallel to the crop rows.
A submersible water pump in water tank of 200
L has flow rate of 6 m3 h-1 at head of 3 m. The water
lost by evaporation from water tank is compensated
from the tap water via floating valve. The water flow
amount passing through the Pads is controlled by
return valve.
Ta r m B i l i m l e r i D e r g i s i J o u r n a l o f A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s
2.3. Measurements
Measurements related with greenhouse environment
were carried out by using seven sensors at different
positions, as well as portable instruments. For this
purpose, the five digital temperature and humidity
sensors (SHT75, accuracy: 0.3 C for temperature
and 1.8% for humidity, Sensirion, Zurich,
Switzerland) and two pyranometers (CM6, accuracy:
5 Wm-2, Kipp and Zonen, The Netherlands) were
used. Among them, two were located outside
greenhouse for external measurements. The rest
one pyranometer above the crop canopy, four
temperature and humidity sensors were mounted
within the crop canopy along the greenhouse.
Furthermore, a portable thermo-hygrometer
(AZ8721, accuracy: 0.5 C for temperature and
2% for humidity, AZ Instrument, Shangai, China)
and a portable hot wire anemometer (Lutron AM4204,
accuracy: 0.8 C for temperature and 1% for air
velocity, Taipei, Taiwan) were used for instrumentation
at different locations for greenhouse experiments.
SHT75 is a digital sensor with high accuracy,
which is fully calibrated at the factory. SHT75
sensors were used together with programmable
PIC16F628 microcontroller-based data acquisition
modules (Microchip, AZ, USA). Each module was
connected to a desktop computer over single serial
bus line based on RS-232 settings (2400 baud rate,
8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit) for serial data
transmission. Temperature and humidity data were
measured for every one minute, and were recorded in
text files. Readings coming from two pyranometers
were logged for every 30 minutes. Data logged
were monitored by using a GUI program written in
Borland Delphi 7. Wind speed data were taken from
records of meteorological station in campus.
The sensor positions are illustrated in Figure
3 with numbers given from (1) to (7). (1): outside
temperature and humidity sensor, (2-3-4-5): inside
temperature and humidity sensors, (6): inside
pyranometer, and (7): outside pyranometer. The
sensors with numbers of (1-6-7) were mounted on
a metal stand at 2.2 m of height from the ground
outside greenhouse. The sensors with numbers of (2-
3-4-5) were placed at intervals of 2.2 m at heights of
21 (2015) 132-143 135
0.8C for temperature
SHT75 and 1%
is a digital sensor withfor airaccuracy,
high velocity, which
Taipei,isTaiwan) were used
fully calibrated forfactory.
at the instrumentation
SHT75 sensorsat different
were
locations for greenhouse
used together experiments.
with programmable PIC16F628 microcontroller-based data acquisition modules (Microchip, AZ,
USA). Each module was connected to a desktop computer over single serial bus line based on RS-232 settings
SHT75
(2400 baud israte,
a digital
8 datasensor
bits, nowith high and
parity, accuracy,
1 stop which
bit) forisserial
fully data
calibrated at the factory.
transmission. SHT75 and
Temperature sensors were
humidity
used together
data with programmable
were measured for every one PIC16F628
minute, microcontroller-based
and were recorded indata textacquisition modules
files. Readings (Microchip,
coming from AZ,two
USA). Each module
pyranometers was connected
were logged for every 30 to aminutes.
desktopDatacomputer
loggedover
were single serial by
monitored bususing
line based
a GUIon RS-232
program settings
written in
(2400 baud
Borland rate,7.8Wind
Delphi data bits,
speednodataparity,
wereand 1 stop
taken frombit) for serial
records data transmission.
of meteorological station Temperature
in campus. and humidity
Sera
data Fan-Pad Soutma Sisteminin
were measured for everyPerformans
one minute,Analizi:
andYatay Scaklk
were ve Balin
recorded Nem Deiimleri,
text Dayolu coming
files. Readings & Silleli from two
pyranometers
The sensorwere logged
positions areforillustrated
every 30 inminutes.
Figure Data
3 withlogged weregiven
numbers monitored by using
from (1) to (7).a (1):
GUIoutside
program written in
temperature
Borland
and Delphisensor,
humidity 7. Wind(2-3-4-5):
speed datainside
were temperature
taken from records of meteorological
and humidity sensors, (6):station in campus.
inside pyranometer, and (7):
1.25 mpyranometer.
outside above ground Thewithin
sensorsthe withcrop canopy
numbers along were2. mounted
of (1-6-7) Dry bulb on atemperature
metal stand atand 2.2relative
m of heighthumidity
the
fromThe
thesensor
groundpositions
greenhouse. arefour
illustrated
Thesegreenhouse.
outside sensors in sensors
The Figure 3with
were named withnumbers
numbers
as ofgiven fromwere
(2-3-4-5) (1) toplaced
(7). (1): outside temperature
at intervals of 2.2 m at
and humidity sensor,
above(2-3-4-5):
If both dry bulb temperature (tdb) (7):
and the wet-
heights
very of 1.25to
close m pad, ground toinside
next within the
pad, temperature
crop canopy
middle, and
and humidity
along sensors,
the greenhouse.
bulb
(6):
These
temperature
inside pyranometer,
four sensors
(t ) is
and
were named
measured
as
directly, the
outsideclose
very pyranometer. The to
to pad, next sensors with numbers
pad, middle, of (1-6-7)
and next were
to fan, mounted on a metal stand
respectively. at 2.2 m of height
next
from thetoground
fan, respectively.
outside greenhouse. The sensors with numbers of (2-3-4-5) were placed
wb
cooling efficiency can be calculated by substituting
at intervals of 2.2 m at
heights of 1.25 m above ground within the crop canopy along theinto greenhouse.
equation These fourIfsensors
(2). were named
dry-bulb as
temperature (tdb)
very close to pad, next to pad, middle, and next to fan, respectively.
of air and relative humidity (rh) are known, its
wet-bulb
1. temperature
Dry bulb temperature and(tthe ) can be calculated by
wb wet-bulb temperature, or
using
2. psychrometric
Dry bulb temperature andequations. The method of
relative humidity
1. Dry bulb temperature
psychrometric and the wet-bulb
calculations due totemperature,
sensors or used
If both
2. Dry bulb dry bulb temperature
temperature and relative(tdb ) and the wet-bulb temperature (twb) is
humidity
at measurements was employed to determine
efficiency can be calculated by substituting into equation the(2). If dry-bulb tem
cooling
humidity efficiency
If both(rh) arebulb
dry of
known, evaporative
its wet-bulb
temperature Fan-Pad
(tdb)temperature system.
(twb) cantemperature
and the wet-bulb be calculated(tby
wb) us
is
method of can
efficiency psychrometric
be calculated calculations due tointo
by substituting sensors used(2).
equation at If
measurements
dry-bulb tem
Figure 3- Positions of sensors placed inside and 2.5. Method
cooling
humidity of known,
efficiency
(rh) are psychrometric
of evaporative calculations
Fan-Pad
its wet-bulb system. (twb) can be calculated by us
temperature
outside greenhouse, 1 5, temperature and method of psychrometric calculations due to sensors used at measurements
humidity sensors; 6-7, pyranometers TheMethod
2.5.
cooling
following psychrometric
of psychrometric
efficiency of evaporative
equations given by
calculations
Fan-Pad system.
1. Dry bulb temperature
ASHRAE (2005) and the wet-bulb
were used intemperature, or
all calculations.
ekil 3- Sera iine ve dna yerletirilen sensrlerin 2. Dry bulb temperature and relative humidity
Relative
The
2.5. following
Method humidity
psychrometric
of psychrometric is defined equationsas the
calculations given ratio of the (2005) were u
by ASHRAE
konumlar, 1 5, scaklk ve bal nem sensrleri; 6-7, humidity isdrydefined as the
gne nm sensrleri
water
If both vapor pressure
bulb temperature to ratio )ofandthethewater
the(tdbsaturation vapor
water
wet-bulb pressure (tto
vapor
temperature the satura
wb) is measure
temperature
The following
efficiency can and
be pressures:
psychrometric
calculated by equations
substituting given
into by
equation ASHRAE
(2). If (2005)
dry-bulb were u
temperature
Figure 3- Positions of sensors placed inside and outside greenhouse, pressure
1 5,attemperature
humidity
humidity (rh)
allknown,
is are
defined
temperature
asitsthe
andofpressures:
and humidity sensors;
ratio temperature
wet-bulb the water (twb)vapor
can be pressure
calculated toby the
usingsatura
psych
6-7, pyranometers
2.4.
ekil Performance
3-Sera iine ve parameters
dna yerletirilen sensrlerin konumlar, 1
method of psychrometric
temperatureP
5, scaklk and
ve pressures:
bal nem
calculations due to sensors used at measurements was emp
sensrleri; 6-7, gne
rh =1
cooling w of evaporative Fan-Pad system.
efficiency (3)
nm
The sensrleri
Figuredifference
3- Positions between
of sensors placed inside and
the outside outside greenhouse,
temperature 5, temperature and humidity sensors;
P ws
6-7, pyranometers
and inside temperature 2.5. MethodP wof psychrometric calculations
2.4. Performance
ekil 3-Sera iine ve dna can
parameters be usedsensrlerin
yerletirilen as an important
konumlar, 1 rh5,=scaklk ve bal nem sensrleri; 6-7, gne
parameter to describe the cooling performance TheThe The P wshumidity
humidity ratio ratio (W,(W, alsoalsoknown knownmoistureas moisture
nm sensrleri following psychrometric equations givenasby ASHRAE content
(2005)orwere mixing
used ratio)
in al
of
TheFan-Pad
difference system.
between the Foroutside
this temperature
purpose, as andan content
defined
easytemperature
inside humiditycan or
with
is be mixing
following
used as
defined as anratio)
equation of
the important aas
ratio of the given
functions
parametermoistof
water vapor airpressure
topartialsample
pressure
to theofsaturation
water vaporwatea
2.4. Performance
describe the coolingparameters
performance of Fan-Pad
criterion, the cooling effect of Fan-Pad system is system. For this is The
defined
temperature
purpose, ashumidity
anandwith ratio
following
pressures:
easy criterion, (W, also
the known
equation
cooling asas
effectmoisture
functions
of content
of or mixing ratio)
Fan-Pad system is calculated from defined with following Pw equation as functions of partial pressure of water vapor a
calculated from partial pressure of water vapor and total pressure (Pa):
The difference between the outside temperature and inside temperature W = 0Pcan 62198
.w be used as an important parameter to
rh = P - P
describe
t ce = thet o -cooling
t i performance of Fan-Pad system. For(1) this purpose,Pas an easy criterion, P ww the cooling(1)effect of (4)
Fan-Pad system is calculated from W = 0ws .62198
The total P - P wpressure of moist air can be calculated according to alti
barometric
Where; , outside
Where; tot,ooutside air air temperature
temperature (C); t(C); t , inside air
i, insidei air temperature (C).
The humidity ratio (W, also known as moisture content or mixing ratio) of a giv
t ce = t o - t(C).
temperature i The
defined withtotal barometric
following equation pressure
as functions (1)
ofofmoist air canofbewater vapor and total p
partial pressure
The total barometric pressure-5of moist 5.2559 air can be calculated according to alti
The cooling efficiency () is determined as the ratio between P = 101
calculated .325
the drop (in1-air
according 2.25577 10 Zafter
to altitude
temperature )(Z):passing
Thetthe
Where;
through cooling
o, outside
Pad and efficiency
airthe maximum()
temperature dropis
(C); determined
tunder
i, inside
asair saturation.
air temperature
conditions of (C). Pw
the ratio between the drop in air temperature after W = 0.62198 5.2559
P =The 101 .325
humidity--ratio
(
P 1 2.25577
P 10-5Z(W
w at saturation ) s) can be calculated(5) by substituting Pws in
The
passing cooling
t db (through efficiency
1 ) - t db (the () is determined
2 ) Pad and the maximum drop as the ratio between The saturation vapor pressure over passing
the drop in air temperature after liquid water for temperature range o
= conditions
through
under the Pad and the maximum100 drop under conditions of air saturation. The
equation: humidity atratio ofatmoist
saturation
(2) (Ws) according
can
t db ( 1 ) - t wb (of1 )air saturation.
The
The total barometric
humidity ratiopressure saturation (Wair s) can
canbebecalculated
calculated to altitudePws
by substituting (Z):
in
be Thecalculated
saturationby vapor substituting
pressure over instead
Pws liquid waterof for
Pw temperature
in range o
t db ( 1 ) - t db ( 2 ) equation:
P = 101.325 (C1-2.2557710-5Z )
5.2559
=Where; 100 (%); tdb(1), the outside dry-bulb
, cooling efficiency (2) equation
ln(
temperature
(4).
P ws ) = of1 entering + C 2 + Cair3 Tto+PadC T(2)
4(C);
2 t (2),3 +
+Cdb5 T C 6 ln( T )
t db ( 1 )temperature
the dry-bulb - t wb ( 1 ) of leaving air form Pad (C); twb(1), the outside wet-bulb
The T temperature
saturation vapor of entering
pressure overair to
liquidbywater
The humidity C1ratio at saturation (Ws) can2be calculated
3+ substituting Pws instead of P
Pad. However, two psychrometric properties of entering air to thefor
Where; , cooling efficiency (%); t (1), the outside ln( P
system
The ws
must
) =
temperature
saturation be + known:
C
vapor 2 +
range C
pressure
3 Tof + C
over T
0-200
4liquid +
o C
C T
is
water
5 given
for 6 ln(by
CtemperatureT ) range of 0-200oC
Where; , cooling efficiency (%); tdb(1), the outside dry-bulbequation:
db Where; T
temperature of entering air to Pad (C); tdb(2),
dry-bulb
the dry-bulb temperature
temperatureofofentering
leaving airairform
to PadPad(C);
(C);tdbtwb(1), thefollowing
(2), C1=-5800.2206,
outside equation:
wet-bulb temperature of entering air to
the dry-bulb temperature of leaving air form Pad (C);
Pad. However, two psychrometric properties of entering air to the C
system
Where; 2 =1.3914993,
must C1be known:
twb(1), the outside wet-bulb temperature of entering ln( CP13ws )=
=-4.8640239x10
=-5800.2206, + C 2 + -2C, 3 T + C 4 T 2 +C 5 T 3 + C56 ln( T ) (6)
T
=4.1764768x10
C24=1.3914993,
-5
,
air to Pad. However, two psychrometric properties of C =-1.4452093x10
=-4.8640239x10
-8
-2
,
entering air to the system must be known: Where;Where;
5
3
=6.5459673. -5,
C164=-5800.2206,
C =4.1764768x10 5
1. Dry bulb temperature and the wet-bulb CC
C =-5800.2206,-8,
=-1.4452093x10
25=1.3914993,
1
In (6)
C equation, saturation
=6.5459673.
C36=-4.8640239x10 -2
, pressure P ws is calculated in Pa, using T the absolute
temperature, or C =1.3914993,
C4=4.1764768x10
2 -5
,
-8
2.6.(6)
In CAdiabatic
equation,saturation
5=-1.4452093x10 ,
saturation process
pressure P ws is calculated in Pa, using T the absolute
C6=6.5459673.
136 Ta r m B i l i m l e r i D e r g i s i J o u2.6.
r n aAdiabatic
l o f A gcooling
Evaporative r isaturation
c u l t uisr aanl process
Sadiabatic
c i e n c e process
s 21 at
(2015) 132-143
constant enthalpy that is no heat
In (6) equation,
exchange saturation
of energy pressureair
between is calculated
P wsand water. The in Pa, using T
energy the absolute
needed temperatu
to evaporate
reducing
Evaporative air saturation
temperature.
2.6. Adiabatic cooling is process The energy
an adiabatic in theat air
process can beenthalpy
constant dividedthat intois two par
no heat
Sensible heat
exchange is a quantitative
of energy between air measure of theThe
and water. air temperature.
energy needed Latent heat is th
to evaporate
water
reducingin the
Evaporative air.
aircooling
temperature.
is an adiabaticThe energy
process in the air enthalpy
at constant can be divided
that is nointo
heat two par
loss and
Sensible
exchange heat is a quantitative
of energy between air and measure
water.ofThetheenergy
air temperature. Latent heat
needed to evaporate wateris isth
waterThe
reducingin enthalpy
the air. balanceThe
air temperature. as energy
followsintothecalculate
air can be thedivided
humidityintoratio
two of moist
parts: ai
sensib
Sensible
be definedheat(ASHRAE
is a quantitative2005): measure of the air temperature. Latent heat is the energy
 Performance Analysis of a Greenhouse Fan-Pad Cooling System: Gradients of Horizontal..., Dayolu & Silleli

C3=-4.8640239x10-2, 3. Results and Discussion

C4=4.1764768x10-5, The experiments were conducted under greenhouse
C5=-1.4452093x10-8, conditions in Ankara at 26 30 August of 2009
C6=6.5459673. when the crop was at full maturity. The external
and internal climate data including solar radiation,
In (6) equation, saturation pressure Pws is temperature, humidity, and air speed were measured.
calculated in Pa, using T the absolute temperature During operating Fan-Pad cooling system, which
(K=C+273.15). was operated for approximately 2-4 hours daily, the
2.6. Adiabatic saturation process internal shading nets were used to provide the more
efficient cooling.
Evaporative cooling is an adiabatic process at constant
enthalpy that is no heat loss and heat gain. It utilizes 3.1. External conditions
the exchange of energy between air and water. The
Figure 4 indicates data that characterize the external
energy needed to evaporate water is taken from the
climate during the experiment periods. As seen in
air, thus reducing air temperature. The energy in the
Figure 4, the external air temperature, the relative
air can be divided into two parts: sensible heat and
humidity, the solar radiation, the wind speed ranged
latent heat. Sensible heat is a quantitative measure of
the air temperature. Latent heat is the energy needed between 30 - 33 C, 20 - 25%, 600 - 860 W m-2 and
to evaporate the water in the air. 2.1 - 3.8 m s-1 during high solar radiation hours
(12:00 15:00), respectively.
The enthalpy balance as follows to calculate
the humidity ratio of moist air for the adiabatic 3.2. Internal conditions
condition must be defined (ASHRAE 2005): Internal solar radiation was approximately
proportional to the external solar radiation.
h + ( W wb s - W ) hw = hs
wb wb
wb (7) (7)wb However, the internal solar radiation
wb (7)
decreased, for
b
= h wb h + ( W s - W ) h w = h s (7) (7)
s Where; h, moist wb air wb specific wb enthalpy in kJ per kg wbexample by 43.5% at noon, because of greenhouse
h + ( W - W ) h = h (7)
hdry
thalpy in kJ per kgWhere;
dry Wh,wb
+ (air;
air;sW -sswb
moist h wb
W,, )humidity
air
humidity =w hratio
wspecific
wbenthalpy
s ratio
s
at in kJ per
saturation
at saturation point kg point
drywet
at Ws frame,
air;at
bulb , humidity ratio at saturation point at(7)
wet
andbulb
in top radiant
kg dry heater,
air; Ws cover shading nets
wb
W wb Where; h, moist air specific enthalpy kJ per , humidity ratio at saturation point at wet bul
specific enthalpy in kJ
wet per
bulbkg dry air;
temperature; humidity
W, humidity ratio at saturation
ratio
wb
of point
moist at wet bulb
wb temperature;
of moist air; hw , specific Where;
W,
enthalpy
h, moist
humidity
in kJ
s
airper
,
ratio
kg water
specific
of moist air;
of water
enthalpy
h
in added
kJ
,
w per at specific
kgwet
enthalpy
drybulb
(Figure
in
wb
wb
Wsmoist
air;wbof
kJ 5).
per kg During
water of test
water trials,
added the
at wet solar
bulb radiation
temperature; W, humidity ratio
Wat s ,, humidity hwwbratio
air; ratio at saturation
,atspecific enthalpy point
pointin
at
perwet
atkJwet kg bulb
water of water added at wet bul
air;
midity ratio of moistWhere;
wb
air; hw h,, moist
specific
specific enthalpy
wbairenthalpy
specific in kJ in
enthalpyperkJ kg per
in water
kJ perkg water
ofkgwaterdry air; of
added , humidity
s measured
wet bulb above saturation
plants ranged between bulb
200 and 370
halpy of moist air attemperature;
wettemperature;
bulb hs W,
temperature , specific
in enthalpy of moist airwbat wb
saturation. wet bulb temperature in saturation.
wb
water added at wet humidity
bulb ratio of moist air;
temperature;
temperature; wb h,,w
h , specific
specific
specific enthalpy
W
enthalpy m
of in
. kJ per
Figures
-2moist air kgwet
at water
6 and
bulbof7temperature
water
show added
the atdaily
in wet bulb
variations
saturation.
temperature;
pecific enthalpy of moist air at wet W,bulb humidity ratio ofinmoist
temperature air; hw s , specific enthalpy in kJ per kg water of water added at wet bulb
saturation. w
enthalpy of moist
temperature; wb hss , air
wb
wb
specificat wet wb bulbof temperature
enthalpy air at wetinbulb temperature
of temperature and humidity data measured at 2,
wb wb
hw , and hswb is solvedIn equation
temperature;
for
saturation. hs substituting
(3),
humidity , ratio:
specific enthalpyh, hw , of hswbmoist
andmoist is solved
air at wet bulbfor humidity wb ratio:
temperature in wb
in saturation.
saturation.
wb 3,
In equation (3), substituting h, hw , and hs is solved 4, 5 sensors positions
for humidityalongratio:greenhouse. The
ituting h, hw , and hs is solved for humidity ratio:
In equation (3), (3),substituting wb hw
h, wb
wb wb
wb
and h is solved temperature and humidity profiles were determined
In equation
( 2501 substituting
- 2substituting
.326 h, wb
h, w ,, and solvedfor humidity ratio:
wb
- 1.006wb In )equation
( t db - t wb (3), t wb )W 006h( stwbdb is-ss tsolved
shw- 1, .and wb ) for humidity wbalong ratio:
horizontal axis between Fan and Pad at a daily
6t wb )W s - 1.006 for
W( t=humidity
- t wb ) 2501 ratio: ( 2501 - 2.326 t wb )W s - 1.006( t db - t wb )
(8) (8)
db + 1 . 86 t -
W 4 .186
= t time scale. Numbers in figures show the sensor (8)
b - 4.186 t wb ( 2501 - 2.326t wbdb )W wb
wb - 1.006wb
( t2501 + 1).86t db(8)- 4.186 t wb
- t wb
+ 1.86t db - 4.186 t wbW( 2501 = - 2 .326 t wb ) W s -s1.006 ( t -
db wb
db
t ) (8) positions: (1) external, (2) very close
(8) to Pad, (3)
W =Computation procedure
2.7. 2501 + 1.86t-db - 4.186 t wb (8)
2501 + 1.86t db 2.7. 4.186 t wb
Computation procedure
2.2 m away from Pad, (4) middle (4.4 m away from
ocedure Pad), and (5) next to Fan (6.6 m away from Pad).
g efficiency of system In order
2.7. to calculate
Computation
according the
to equation cooling
procedure (2), the efficiency
wet-bulboftemperatures
system according to equation (2), the wet-bulb temperatures need
need Figures
2.7.
2.7.
to
Computation
beComputation
procedure
procedure In order to calculate the cooling efficiency present W 4how
ofofsystem to change
according levels of(2),
to equation temperature
the wet-bulb temperatures nee
the cooling
peratures efficiency
were calculatedofknown.
with aThe
system wet-bulb
according
convergence to temperatures
equation
of W4 W (2), were calculated
the wet-bulb
8 0.0005 from (3) to
with a convergence
temperatures need W 8 0.0005 from (3) to
t-bulb temperatures
procedure written in(8) equations
InwereIn order
order
Matlab to using
to
calculated
2007b an iterative
calculate
calculate with
(Mathworks,athethecooling to
cooling
convergence
Natick,
be
procedure known.
efficiency
efficiency
of W
MA,
The
written
4 W
USA). of8of wet-bulb
in Matlab
system
system
0.0005 2007b and
temperatures
according humidity
from(Mathworks,
to to
(3) were along
calculated
equationNatick, greenhouse.
(2), theMA, with
wet-bulba convergence of
USA).temperatures need W 4 W8 0.0005 from (3) t
In order to calculate the cooling (8)
efficiency of using
equations systemanaccording to equation
iterative procedure (2), the
written wet-bulb
in Matlab temperatures needNatick, MA, USA).
n iterative procedure to be known.
written
according The
in Matlab wet-bulb
2007b temperatures
(Mathworks, were
Natick, MA,calculated
USA). with a convergence of W2007b
W 44was 8 up
(Mathworks,
0.0005
fromfrom (3) to
to 17:00,
to be known.toThe
equation
wet-bulb (2), the wet-bulb
temperatures weretemperatures Coolingofsystem
calculated with a convergence W4 W 8run 13:14
8 0.0005 from (3) to
3. Results and Discussion
(8) equations using an iterative procedure written in Matlab 2007b (Mathworks, Natick, MA, USA).
need
(8) to be known.
equations using an The wet-bulb
iterative proceduretemperatures
written in were
Matlab
3. Results and Discussion 2007bwhich were
(Mathworks, hours to
Natick, be
MA, effective
USA). of cooling (Figures
scussion
ed under greenhouse
calculated
The 3. Results
experiments
conditions
with
in and
a Discussion
were
Ankara
convergence
conducted
at 26 30 under ofgreenhouse
August
Wof W8when
4 2009 conditions
@ the in 6 and
Ankara 7). It
at must
26 30 be August
emphasizedof 2009 that
whenthethe
performance
re conducted
3.
cropResults
0.0005 was
under greenhouse from
at and
full (3)Discussion
to
maturity.(8) The The experiments
equations
external using
and an
internal were
climateconducted
iterative data of under
Fan-Pad
including greenhouse
solarcooling conditions
system
radiation, in Ankara
was
temperature, analyzed at 26for
humidity, 30
theAugust
time of 2009 when th
xternal and internal climate dataconditionsincluding solar in Ankara at 26temperature,
radiation, 30 Augusthumidity, of 2009 when the
and air speed
The were
experiments measured.
were crop was
During
conducted under at full
operating maturity.conditions
Fan-Pad
greenhouse The external
cooling system, andwhich
in Ankarainternal
atwas
26climate
operateddata
30 Augustforincluding solar
approximately
of 2009 radiation,
whentime temperature, humidity
the stages
rity. The
During operating procedure
externalFan-Pad
and internal
cooling written
climate data
system, in Matlab
including
which was 2007b
solar
operated (Mathworks,
radiation,
for temperature,
approximately humidity,
interval of 180 minutes. Hence, the two
Thehours
2-4 experiments
daily, were
the conducted
internal shadingandunder
air
nets greenhouse
speed
were were
used conditions
measured.
to provide inmore
Ankara
During
the at 26 cooling.
operating
efficient 30 August
Fan-Pad of 2009
cooling when
system, the was operated for approximatel
which
measured.
ding nets During
were used to crop
operating
Natick,providewasthe
Fan-Pad
was MA,
at full
at fullUSA).
maturity.
cooling
more system,
efficient The external
which was
cooling. andoperated
internal for climate data
approximately
were including
selected, solar radiation,
one temperature,
of temperature,
which humidity,
crop
andusedair speed
maturity.
werethe
The external
measured. 2-4During
hoursanddaily,
internal
operating theclimate
internal data including
Fan-Padshading coolingnets
solarused
were
system,
radiation,
whichtowas provide thewas
operated more 12:00
humidity, 13:00
efficient
for approximately
time
cooling.
nternal shading nets were to provide more efficient cooling.
and air
3.1. 2-4 speed
External were measured. During operating Fan-Pad cooling system, which was operated for approximately
hoursconditions
daily, the internal shading nets were used to provide the more efficient cooling.
2-4 hours daily, the internal shading 3.1. nets wereconditions
External used to provide the more efficient cooling.
ons
racterize the externalTa r
Figure m
3.1. 4B i l i m
indicates
External l e r i D
data e r g
that
conditions i s i J o u
characterize r n a l
the o f A g r iin
external c climate
uFigure
l t u r a l4,S c i e nthe
during 21 (2015)
c eexperiment
s 132-143
periods. As seen in Figure 4, 137
3.1.climate
External during the experiment periods. As seen
conditions Figure 4humidity,
indicates the datasolar
that radiation,
characterize the external climate during the experiment periods. As seen in Figure 4
etarelative humidity,the
that characterize theexternal
external
solar air
radiation, temperature,
climate during
the wind the relative
experiment
speed ranged periods. 30
between As-seen
33C, in Figurethe 4, wind speed ranged between 30 - 33C,
m-2 and the-external
2.1 m s-1air temperature, theradiation
relativethehumidity, thesolar radiation, theinwind speed
4, ranged between 30 - 33C
erature,
2.1 - 3.8the
m relative 20humidity,
s-1 during -high
Figure
25%,
Figure 600
solar4the -solar
860 W
indicates
radiation data
radiation,
hours that the
(12:00 3.8
characterize
wind speed
15:00), during
the ranged high
external
respectively.betweensolar
climate
-2 - 33C,hours
30during (12:00
experiment
-1
15:00),
periods. respectively.
As seen Figure
-2 -1 4 indicates data that characterize 20 - 25%, the600external
- 860 climate
W m andduring
2.1 - the
3.8 experiment
m s during periods.
high As seen
solar in Figure
radiation hours 4,(12:00 15:00), respectively.
W m and 2.1 - 3.8 m stheduring external high airsolar
temperature,
radiationthe relative
hours (12:00 humidity,
15:00),the solar radiation, the wind speed ranged between 30 - 33C,
respectively.
the external air temperature, the relative humidity, the solar radiation, the wind speed ranged between 30 - 33C,
20 - 25%, 600 - 860 W m-2-2 and 2.1 - 3.8 m s-1-1 during high solar radiation hours (12:00 15:00), respectively.
20 - 25%, 600 - 860 W m-2 and 2.1 - 3.8 m s-1 during high solar radiation hours (12:00 15:00), respectively.
Sera Fan-Pad Soutma Sisteminin Performans Analizi: Yatay Scaklk ve Bal Nem Deiimleri, Dayolu & Silleli

Figure 4- Daily variations of solar radiation, temperature, humidity, wind speed data measured outside
greenhouse (26 August 2009)
ekil 4- Sera dnda llen gne nm, scaklk, bal nem ve rzgr hz verilerinin gnlk deiimleri (26
Austos 2009)

Figure 5- Daily variations of internal and external solar radiation (26 August 2009)
ekil 5- Sera d ve ii toplam gne nmnn gnlk deiimi (26 Austos 2009)

stages which turned off the cooling system. The
other of which was 14:00 15:00 time stage which
turned on the system. At these time stages, the levels
of hourly mean solar radiation prevailing above
plants were approximately 350 Wm-2 (cooling off),
and 270 Wm-2 (cooling on), respectively.
The variations of temperature and humidity along
greenhouse were evaluated for two time stages.
When turning off system between 12:00 and 13:00,
the levels of hourly mean temperature calculated for
2, 3, 4 and 5 sensors positions were approximately
33 C, 31 C, 32 C, and 30 C, respectively, along
the horizontal axis from Pad to Fan, After turning
on Fan-Pad system, when being stable cooling
conditions between 14:00 and 15:00, levels of hourly
mean temperature for 2, 3, 4 and 5 sensors positions
dropped to approximately 20 C, 24 C, 27 C, and
26C, and air at these points were colder as much as
12.75 C, 6.6 C, 4.9 C and 3.8 C, respectively.
When turning off Fan-Pad system, the levels of
hourly mean humidity calculated for 2, 3, 4 and 5
sensors positions were approximately 30%, 41%,

138 Ta r m B i l i m l e r i D e r g i s i J o u r n a l o f A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s 21 (2015) 132-143

Performance Analysis of a Greenhouse Fan-Pad Cooling System: Gradients of Horizontal..., Dayolu & Silleli

39%, and 47%, respectively. It must be emphasized
that the relative humidity levels inside greenhouse
were more because of crop transpiration, even
turning off the system. At 14:00 15:00, levels
of hourly mean humidity calculated for 2, 3, 4
and 5 sensors positions rose up to approximately
68%, 56%, 50%, and 57%, respectively. The air
at measurement positions along greenhouse was
more humid as much as 38%, 15%, 11% and 10%,
respectively. These results are integrated in Table 1
for both temperature and humidity gradients.
Our results are consistent with findings of past
studies by Kittas et al (2001, 2003); Bartzanas & Kittas
(2005); Al-Helal et al (2006); Teitel et al (2010); Lopez
et al (2012) related to the temperature and humidity
distributions. For example, in a study performed by

Figure 6- Daily variations of temperatures Figure 7- Daily variations of relative humidity

measured at different locations outside and inside a
greenhouse cooled with Fan-Pad system (26 August
2009); Sensor positions: 1, outside; 2, pad; 3, next to
pad; 4, middle; 5, next to fan
ekil 6- Fan- Pad sistemi ile soutulan bir serann iinde
ve dnda farkl konumlarda llen scaklklarn
gnlk deiimi (26 Austos 2009); Sensr konumlar:
1, d; 2, pad; 3, pade yakn; 4, orta; 5, fana yakn
measured at different locations outside and inside
greenhouse of a greenhouse cooled with Fan-Pad
system (26 August 2009); Sensor positions: 1, outside;
2, pad; 3, next to pad; 4, middle; 5, next to fan
ekil 7- Fan- Pad sistemi ile soutulan bir serann
iinde ve dnda farkl konumlarda llen bal nemin
gnlk deiimi (26 Austos 2009); Sensr konumlar:
1, d; 2, pad; 3, pade yakn; 4, orta; 5, fana yakn

Table 1- Gradients of temperature and humidity according to sensor positions during periods turning off
(12:00 13:00) and on (14:00 15:00) of cooling system
izelge 1- Soutma sisteminin kapal (12:00 13:00) ve ak (14:00 15:00) olduu periyotlarda sensr
konumlarna gre scaklk ve bal nem deiimleri
Sensor positions
Outside Pad Next to pad Middle Next to fan
1 2 3 4 5
Temperature Off 32.05(0.29) 33.02(0.41) 31.10(0.45) 31.93(0.39) 30.02(0.52)
(S.D.) On 31.44(0.175) 20.27(0.13) 24.50(0.13) 27.04(0.30) 26.18(0.16)
C t - 12.75 6.60 4.89 3.84
Humidity Off 24.69(1.51) 29.52(1.48) 41.06(1.77) 38.55(1.09) 46.79(1.59)
(S.D.) On 23.09(1.09) 67.96(0.89) 56.50(0.49) 49.67(0.66) 56.98(0.94)
% rh - 38.44 15.44 11.12 10.19

Ta r m B i l i m l e r i D e r g i s i J o u r n a l o f A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s 21 (2015) 132-143 139

Sera Fan-Pad Soutma Sisteminin Performans Analizi: Yatay Scaklk ve Bal Nem Deiimleri, Dayolu & Silleli
Bartzanas & Kittas (2005), the difference between the
air temperature entering to greenhouse and outside
air temperature was about 10 C. In a research study
carried out in a greenhouse equipped with Fan-Pad
system by Lopez et al (2012), the inside air temperature
was cooler up to 11.6 C than that of a natural ventilated
greenhouse. However, it is emphasized that the main
drawback of the Fan-Pad system was the horizontal
temperature gradients to be with a maximum difference
of 11.4 C between the pads and fans. So far, however,
there has been little discussion about horizontal
humidity gradients between Pad and Fan.
Figure 8 shows the gradients of temperature and
humidity along horizontal profile of greenhouse.
Plotting drawn in Figure 8 indicates increasing
approximately linearly of temperature between
Pad and Fan. It can be said that the humidity
variations along greenhouse remain approximately
stable between Pad and Fan because of the crop
transpiration. Giving details, the temperature
increased up to x=4 m, then decreased. The humidity
decreased up to x=3 m, and then remained stable. In
other words, it was emphasized that the temperature
at x=4.4 m was slightly higher while the relative
humidity was lower due to small sun flecks arising
from gap between two shading curtains. Kittas et al
(2001; 2003) also reported the similar results on rose
Figure 8- Gradients of temperature and humidity along greenhouse
ekil 8- Sera boyunca oluan scaklk ve bal nem deiimleri
140 Ta r m B i l i m l e r i D e r g i s i J o u r n a l o f A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s
plants, which showed to be significantly differences
on temperature and humidity at experiments with
and without shading nets. If a general evaluation is
made to define temperature and humidity profiles at
x-direction, the second degree polynomial trend
lines and equations can be derived with R2=0.9946
and R2=0.974, respectively (Figure 8).
Figure 9 shows the detailed performance
parameters including cooling effect (tce) and cooling
efficiency (), as well as temperatures (to, twb t2, and ti)
which correspond to external temperature, wet-bulb
temperature, temperature in front of pad, and internal
temperature, respectively. Here, ti represents the
average of inside air temperatures that are measured at
the four points inside greenhouse. Experiments results
consist of cooling off (12:00 13:00) and cooling on
(14:00 15:00) time stages. As indicated in Figure
9, initially, before starting Fan-Pad system, the inside
air temperature was higher or close to the outside
air temperature. After starting system, the inside air
temperature dropped until reaching to equilibrium.
However, this reduction did not happen immediately,
there was always a transition stage. The period when
the cooling system is on includes transition stage
and stable cooling stage (Figure 9). There are very
significant differences between two time stages in terms
of temperature variations and performance values.
21 (2015) 132-143
Performance Analysis of a Greenhouse Fan-Pad Cooling System: Gradients of Horizontal..., Dayolu & Silleli

Figure 9- Performance parameters of Fan-Pad cooling system: cooling effect, cooling efficiency and
temperature levels
ekil 9- Fan-Pad soutma sisteminin performans parametreleri: soutma etkisi, soutma etkinlii ve scaklk
seviyeleri

The results obtained related with the performance
of greenhouse cooling system during experiments
are summarized in Table 2. According to the
calculation results, the internal temperature was
24.5 C while external temperature was 31.44 C.
It was observed that the internal temperatures were
lower than external temperatures when turning on
Fan-Pad system. This is an indication that sensible
heat is converted to latent heat by water evaporation
(Li & Willits 2008). Values of the cooling effect and
cooling efficiency of Fan-Pad system were found to
be tce = 6.96 C and =76.8%, respectively. The
maximum cooling efficiency was 80% at stable
cooling stage. Bartzanas & Kittas (2005) also found
that the cooling efficiency of the pad-fan system
was approximately 80%.
The mean air temperature entering to greenhouse
with air velocity of 0.8 m s-1 through the wet pad was
20.3C. It was observed that the cooled air temperature
levels passing the wet pad with air velocity of 0.8-0.9
m s-1 were approximately 12-13 C lower than the
outside air temperature. The maximum air velocity
measured in front of Pads inside of the greenhouse
was 0.9 m s-1, but as moving away from Pads, it was
observed that the air velocities reduced up to 0.2 0.3
m s-1 in crop rows, which were also consistent with
results obtained by Li & Willits (2008); Lopez et al
(2012). ASABE (2008) has recommended the mean

Table 2- Performance quantities of Fan-Pad cooling system: mean, minimum and maximum values
izelge 2- Fan-Pad soutma sisteminin performans byklkleri: ortalama, minimum ve maksimum deerler
Quantities Symbol Mean (S.D.) Minimum Maximum
Outside temperature (C) to 31.4(0.17) 31.1 31.8
Wet-bulb temperature (C) twb 16.9(0.27) 16.3 17.6
Temperature in front of pad t2 20.3(0.13) 20.1 20.6
Inside temperature (C) ti 24.5(0.14) 24.3 24.7
Cooling effect (C) tce = to ti 6.96(0.26) 6.4 7.3
Cooling efficiency (%) 76.8(1.31) 74.1 80.0

Ta r m B i l i m l e r i D e r g i s i J o u r n a l o f A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s 21 (2015) 132-143 141

Sera Fan-Pad Soutma Sisteminin Performans Analizi: Yatay Scaklk ve Bal Nem Deiimleri, Dayolu & Silleli
air velocity of 1.27 m s-1 entering to the greenhouse
through the pad. However, if applying the high air
velocities on Pads, increasing electricity costs and
decreasing cooling efficiency. According to our
experiment results, it can be emphasized that the air
velocities of 0.8-0.9 m s-1 are appropriate to provide
the efficient cooling.
The efficiency of Fan-Pad system is an indicator
of air saturation efficiency. The closer temperature
measured in front of pad inside greenhouse is to wet-
bulb temperature, higher cooling efficiency of pad.
However, it is emphasized that the highest efficiency
values can be produced at low air velocities (Franco
et al 2014). As the air velocity decreases, the length
of time that the air comes into contact with the water
increases, also increasing the saturation of the air,
consequently the saturation efficiency is higher
(Franco et al 2010).
According to experiment results of Franco et al
2014, it was provided that the maximum values of
Fan-Pad cooling system efficiency were between
71% and 69% at low air velocities close to 0.5 m s-1.
According to our experimental findings, the cooling
system efficiencies ranged between 74% and 80% at
air velocities of 0.2-0.3 m s-1 measured in crop rows.
Willits (2003) suggested the higher air-flow rates
than 0.05 m3 m-2 s-1 for Fan-Pad system to provide
efficient cooling. Air flow rate of fans used in our
system is 0.06 m3 m-2 s-1 at zero static pressure. These
air flow rates are suitable for adequate cooling.
Although the length of the greenhouse is not
long, the significant temperature and humidity
gradients were observed, which become the coolest
air near the pads and the warmest air near exhaust
fans of the inside air temperature. The levels of
these gradients are affected by many factors, such
as greenhouse geometry, positions of shading nets,
external climate conditions, air flow rate, crop
density and temperature of circulating water. The
efficiency of cooling system was quite high due
to the dry and warm outside climate conditions.
Increasing the air flow passing the pad does not
improve the air saturation efficiency. Circulation
fans can be used to provide the uniform temperature
distribution between pads and exhaust fans.
142 Ta r m B i l i m l e r i D e r g i s i J o u r n a l o f A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s
4. Conclusions
This study evaluated the cooling performance of a
greenhouse cooled with Fan-Pad under hot and dry
climate conditions like in Ankara. During experiments,
natural ventilation, shading, irrigation and Fan-Pad
systems were actively used to ensure proper climate
for growing crop. In order to define greenhouse
experiment conditions, the external and internal data
including solar radiation, wind speed, temperature-
humidity and internal air velocity were measured.
The temperature and humidity profiles were
determined along horizontal axis between Fan and
Pad. The evaluations were made for the different
sensor positions: external, very close to Pad, next
to Pad, middle, and next to Fan. It was observed
that there were the significant temperature and
humidity gradients along the greenhouse from Pad
to Fan, even being a small greenhouse where the
experiments were made about Fan-Pad cooling.
The levels of these gradients are affected by many
factors, such as greenhouse geometry, positions of
shading nets, external climate conditions, fan air
flow rate, crop density and temperature of circulating
water. According to the horizontal temperature and
humidity profiles, the second degree polynomial
trend lines and equations were derived.
The performance evaluations were made by using
two quantity, such as the cooling effect and cooling
efficiency. In order to determine the cooling efficiency
of Fan-Pad system, the method of psychrometric
calculations was used. The wet-bulb temperatures
were calculated by using an iterative procedure. The
results obtained showed that the cooling efficiency
was low at starting time. For this purpose, two
stages, a transition stage and stable cooling stage,
were defined. The cooling efficiency increased until
reaching to the equilibrium between sensible heat
and latent heat for adiabatic cooling process. The
hourly mean cooling effect and cooling efficiency
performance parameters, as well as the average of air
temperatures inside greenhouse, were calculated.
Cooling efficiency is a function of pad
temperature, outside temperature and its wet-bulb
temperature. The closer pad temperature measured
in front of pad inside greenhouse is to wet-bulb
temperature, higher cooling efficiency of pad. In
21 (2015) 132-143
Performance Analysis of a Greenhouse Fan-Pad Cooling System: Gradients of Horizontal..., Dayolu & Silleli

order to provide the more effective cooling, there Franco A, Valera D L, Pena A (2014). Energy Efficiency
is no need to increase the air flow rate; however, if in Greenhouse Evaporative Cooling Techniques:
water temperature circulating in the system and the Cooling Boxes versus Cellulose Pads. Energies 7:
1427-1447
external air humidity can be reduced, the cooling Fuchs M, Dayan E & Presnov E (2006). Evaporative
efficiency can be increased. Furthermore, the cooling of a ventilated greenhouse rose crop.
circulation fans in the greenhouse can be used for Agriculture and Forest Meteorology 138: 203215
the uniform temperature and humidity distribution. Jain, D & Tiwari G N (2002). Modeling and optimal
design of evaporative cooling system in controlled
Abbreviations and Symbols environment greenhouse. Energy Conversion and
S.D. standard deviation
Management 43(1): 22352250
R2 determination of coefficient
h moist air specific enthalpy (kJ kg-1) Kittas C, Bartzanas T & Jaffarin A (2001). Greenhouse
P total barometric pressure (Pa) evaporative cooling: measurement and data analysis.
Pw water vapor pressure (Pa) Transactions of the ASAE 44(3): 683689
Pws saturation water vapor pressure (Pa) Kittas C, Bartzanas T, & Jaffarin A (2003). Temperature
t air temperature (C) Gradients in a Partially Shaded Large Greenhouse
to outside air temperature (C) equipped with Evaporative Cooling Pads. Biosystems
ti inside air temperature (C) Engineering 85(1): 8794
tdb dry-bulb temperature (C)
twb the wet-bulb temperature (C) Kumar K S, Tiwari K N & Madan K Jha (2009). Design
t temperature difference (C) and technology for greenhouse cooling in tropical and
tce the cooling effect (C) subtropical regions: A review. Energy and Buildings
T absolute temperature (K) 41: 12691275
W humidity ratio (g kg dry air-1) Li S & Willits D H (2008). An experimental evaluation of
Ws Saturation humidity ratio (g kg dry air-1) thermal stratification in a fan-ventilated greenhouse.
Z altitude (m) Transactions of the ASABE 51(4): 1443-1448
cooling efficiency (%)
w water vapor Lopez A, Valera D L, Molina-Aiz F D & Pea A (2012).
ws saturation water vapor Sonic anemometry to evaluate airflow characteristics
x horizontal axis and temperature distribution in empty Mediterranean
greenhouses equipped with pad-fan and fog systems.
Biosystems Engineering 113(4): 334-350
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