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How does the Agricultural Industry use extruded plastics?

Plextrusions helps the agricultural industry with extruded plastics in various applications to enhance productivity, improve crop protection, and facilitate efficient resource management. Extruded plastics are valued in agriculture for their durability, resistance to chemicals, and ability to be molded into different shapes.  Contact us to learn how we can supply your needs.

Here’s how extruded plastics are commonly used in agriculture:

1. Greenhouse and Tunnel Films

  • Greenhouse Covers: Extruded polyethylene (PE) films are widely used as covers for greenhouses and tunnels. These films help create a controlled environment for plant growth, providing protection from weather conditions, pests, and UV radiation while maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels.
  • Row Covers and Low Tunnels: Thin extruded plastic films are used as row covers and low tunnels to protect crops from frost, insects, and diseases, promoting an extended growing season.

2. Irrigation Systems

  • Drip Irrigation Tubing: Extruded plastic tubing, often made from polyethylene (PE), is used in drip irrigation systems to deliver water directly to the plant roots, reducing water wastage and improving water efficiency.
  • Sprinkler Components: Components of sprinkler systems, such as pipes, fittings, and emitters, are often made from extruded plastics like PVC (polyvinyl chloride) due to their resistance to corrosion and chemicals.

3. Fencing and Netting

  • Plastic Fencing: Extruded plastics are used to create durable, weather-resistant fencing for agricultural fields and livestock enclosures. Plastic fencing is lightweight, easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional materials like wood or metal.
  • Protective Netting: Extruded plastic nets are used for a variety of purposes, including bird netting to protect crops from birds, shade nets to reduce sunlight exposure, and windbreak nets to protect plants from wind damage.

4. Mulch Films

  • Plastic Mulch: Extruded plastic films, typically made from polyethylene, are used as mulch to cover soil around crops. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and enhance crop yield and quality.
  • Biodegradable Mulch Films: In response to environmental concerns, biodegradable extruded plastic mulch films are increasingly used, offering similar benefits while decomposing naturally over time.

5. Storage and Silage Covers

  • Silage Bags and Covers: Extruded plastic films are used to create silage bags and covers to store and ferment animal feed. These covers protect the silage from moisture and spoilage, ensuring high-quality feed throughout the year.
  • Grain Storage Bags: Plastic storage bags made from extruded polyethylene provide a cost-effective solution for on-site grain storage, protecting harvested grain from pests and weather conditions.

6. Plant and Tree Guards

  • Plastic Plant and Tree Guards: Extruded plastic tubes are used to protect young plants and trees from pests, herbivores, and harsh environmental conditions. These guards are lightweight, easy to install, and provide a physical barrier against damage.

7. Hydroponic Systems

  • Growing Channels and Trays: Extruded plastic channels and trays are used in hydroponic systems to support plant growth without soil. These systems facilitate efficient nutrient delivery and water management, promoting faster and healthier plant growth.
  • Reservoirs and Containers: Plastic containers and reservoirs are used to store nutrient solutions in hydroponic setups, thanks to their durability and resistance to chemicals.

8. Packaging and Storage Solutions

  • Produce Packaging: Extruded plastic films and containers are used for packaging fresh produce, ensuring hygiene, protecting against contamination, and extending shelf life.
  • Agricultural Twine and Ties: Extruded plastic twine is used for bundling crops like hay and straw, as well as for training and supporting plants.

9. Ground Cover and Erosion Control

  • Plastic Ground Covers: Extruded plastic sheets are used as ground covers to control weeds and reduce soil erosion. These covers are commonly used in landscaping and in areas where maintaining soil moisture and integrity is crucial.
  • Geotextiles: Extruded plastic geotextiles are used in erosion control and soil stabilization applications to prevent soil erosion, improve drainage, and support the growth of vegetation.

10. Crop Protection Products

  • Plastic Pesticide Containers: Durable, extruded plastic containers are used to store and apply pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, ensuring safe handling and storage.
  • Plastic Row Covers: Extruded plastic sheets are also used as row covers to protect crops from insects and harsh weather, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

Extruded plastics fro Plextrusions provides the agricultural industry with versatile, cost-effective, and durable solutions that enhance productivity, improve crop protection, and support sustainable farming practices.

Contact us to learn how we can supply your needs.

Information

At Plextrusions, Inc., we offer a variety of capabilities for your professional plastic extrusion needs. While specializing in extruding a wide range of flexible and rigid PVC profiles, we offer extrusion for many different plastics.

We own our own manufacturing facility located in North Ridgeville, Ohio – just outside of Cleveland, only 25 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins Airport. 

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