Steam weeder

portable

This method is the most traditional and therefore the most common surface steaming technique. If used properly, sheet steaming is easy and still profitable despite its high energy requirements, especially in small and specialised horticultural farms.In one working cycle, you can easily treat up to 400 sq.m surface with 85°C steam at 25-30cm depth in 4-5 hours. The advantages of this steaming system are its relatively low primary cost and easy application. Moreover, you can work step by step very efficiently. The steam should, however, be applied for up to four hours or even longer, if needed. This means energy loss is unavoidable and this method is thus the most energy-intensive. Energy consumption Depending on the steaming time and soil characteristics, you need 0.5 litres of heating oil per square metre to reach 7-10 cm steaming depth (or 2 litres of oil to reach 25-30cm depth). You will achieve up to 85°C soil temperature with this method. The following rules of thumb apply: 1. The longer the steaming time, the higher the energy losses (hence the high energy demand per square metre). 2. The steaming time for 10cm steaming depth is about 1 -1.5 hours. Using a heat-resistant and non-rotting insulation mat can save up to 35% in energy. The steaming time can be significantly reduced and the depth of effect can be improved.