Mingozzi Group has developed a machine that can safeguard produce against night-time frost. "It is a unique opportunity for producers in Emilia Romagna, as non-repayable grants are in place for 70% of the cost (regional resolution no. 1099 of 26/06/2023). The deadline is September 19th and the procedure to apply is rather complex, so time is of the essence.
"The machine is towed by a tractor and runs on GPL. The maximum working width is 3.80 m. It is also possible for the equipment to be towed by the tractor while in operation because it is equipped with 400 mm front wheels, whose position and height can be adjusted," explains Mingozzi.
"The machine has an anti-frost function and it is suitable to solve the problem of frost in orchards, vineyards and kiwifruit groves. The principle used to solve the thermal inversion problem that leads to frost is that of air heating via convection. The rising of the cold air at ground level is achieved via convection, heating a suitable volume of air near the ground."
As it heats, the mass of air on the ground expands, becoming less dense and therefore starting to rise. The two masses of air - one hot and one cold - converge and rise. This process is triggered by the considerable heat produced by the machine. Then the rising air cools quicker than that surrounding it and, upon reaching a certain height (above 4 meters), both reach the same temperature and the upwards motion stops.
Right: Marco Mingozzi during a fair
The solution features 15 naked-flame burners protected by a screen and relevant safety systems and two side burner kits made up of three burners mounted on both the right and left-hand sides of the machine. The kit comes with connection pipes and cocks. The burners are controlled via the control system on the tractor.
The machine is equipped with a hydraulic engine powered by the tractor distributor. The engine then controls a turbine that conveys a jet of air above the side burners via dedicated ducts to control the flame and avoid the heat climbing up the plants. The tank container can hold 4 GPL tanks and comes with a heating system for them. A control and fault indication unit with a safety device is installed on the machine, which dialogues with the control dashboard equipped with magnetic connections that is housed near the tractor driver's seat.
For further information:
Officine Mingozzi
Via Val d'Albero 25/B
Ferrara
info@pirodiserbo.it
www.pirodiserbo.it