Rack and pinion ventilation system for greenhouse

A rack-and-pinion ventilation system is an efficient and reliable solution for automating ventilation in greenhouses, particularly for opening and closing roof or side vents. This system provides precise linear motion, making it ideal for large or heavy vent panels. It is widely used for poly greenhouse, PC greenhouse, glass greenhouse roof and side ventilation.

How It Works

Rack: A linear gear (toothed bar) fixed along the vent's edge or frame.

Pinion: A circular gear attached to a motorized shaft that engages with the rack. When the pinion rotates, it drives the rack forward or backward, opening or closing the vent.

Motor: Provides rotational motion to the pinion, typically via a gearbox to ensure the right torque and speed.

Control System: Automates the motor based on environmental inputs like temperature, humidity, or wind speed.

Our Rack and Pinion drive system

Steel rack arm:

Straight pre galvanized sheet steel rack are made of high standard 275 zinc sheet metal, Underneath on the back of the sheet steel rack there is a round hole. This is for mounting a  bolt for extra run-out protection. The sheet steel rack can be attached to an air vent or ventilation window with a sash bracket set. Steel rack arms in 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm thickness, and length can be cut as per request.

Steel pinion

The steel pinion is made of powder meteallurgy casting, with special heat treated, make sure it withstand heavy loading and long term gearing. it is designed for various ventilation and screening purposes for light, medium to intensive use.

The gearcase works in combination with plate racks attached to the windows, panels or screen.

The gearcase is driven by our motor gearbox ,depending on the system. The pinion, suitable as standard for a 1” drive tube.

Ventilation Systems

Used for opening and closing roof vents or side vents.

Motorized pinion drives the rack to slide vent panels open or closed.

Precise control of the vent position enhances climate regulation.

Advantages

Precision and Control, accurate positioning and repeatability for tasks like vent opening/closing.

Durability, Can handle high loads and operate in tough environmental conditions.

Low Maintenance, simple mechanical design reduces the need for frequent servicing.

Scalability easily adaptable for different sizes and configurations.