Everything starts from a high-density 10% polyethylene granule made in Europe, as using high-quality raw material is key to producing long-lasting nets.
A visit to Arrigoni's production plant in Bari enabled FreshPlaza's staff to witness the whole manufacturing process: from extrusion, to warpage and to weaving. Over 16,000 square meters dedicated to the production of high-quality nets and fabrics.
A bird's view of the Arrigoni facility in Bari.
"Our products are forever evolving. We started by producing nets for climatic control (anti-hail and those for wind, sun, frost and bird protection) and then went on to develop biological control anti-insect ones. Now, with the new Arricover, we are entering the third phase - the net is in fact ideal in open fields instead of non-woven fabric. Excellent results have already been obtained for melons, watermelons, red chicory, tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, leek, cabbage, beets, beetroot, salad and parsley," explains managing director Paolo Arrigoni (in the photo below).
Anti-insect nets are ideal against Bemisia tabacii, lepidoptera, aphids and thrips, i.e. the main virus carriers. They can also be installed on apple, pear, kiwi, peach, apricot and pomegranate orchards and vineyards too.
The extrusion department.
"Comparative tests have shown how our products are highly resistant and long lasting."
HDPE single filaments being wrapped on reels.
In particular, the quality control laboratory is equipped with an accelerated weathering tester that reproduces fabric deterioration throughout the years, supplying precise information on the effect of UV radiation on the finished product. Another chamber can re-create extreme temperature and humidity conditions.
Other tools developed in collaboration with the University of Bari measure air permeability, enabling to assess the performance of wind protection nets. Arrigoni is also collaborating with the University of Milan.
Anti-insect nets on a Sulzer loom.
Arrigoni Group has been operating on the market since 1939 and it started producing polyethylene nets in 1959. It now produces over 3,500 tons of fabric per year.
Arrigoni products are available in 50 countries worldwide. "Exports represent 50% of our turnover, which is of approximately €18 million." .
Anti-hail net on a Sulzer loom.
Anti-hail net on a Sulzer loom.
A meticulous choice of raw material, high-tech manufacturing and highly skilled professionals - that's exactly what we found at the Arrigoni plant.
A state-of-the-art plant not only because of what it produces directly, but also thanks to its added value. It has in fact taken part in the organisation of the Carl Orff Music Festival together with the Putignano Municipality, Bari Province, Carl Orff foundation and Club Imprese per la Cultura di Confindustria. The opening concert was held on 29th August (see photo above).
Contacts
Arrigoni SpA
Via Monte Prato 3
22029 Uggiate Trevano (CO)
Tel.: (+39) 031803200
Fax: (+39) 031803206
Email: info@arrigoni.it
Web: www.arrigoni.it