Fumigation sheeting may sound like a simple case of supplying large sheets of Polyethylene but it is a lot more complicated given that fumigant gases pose a health risk. It is imperative to approach the process with care and specialist products if it is to be effective, according to Power Plastics, manufacturer of fumigation sheeting and one of the main suppliers of fumigation solutions to tobacco industries throughout Africa.
“We have an excellent range of fumigation sheeting for the agricultural industry and have specifically developed a line for use with tobacco and grain. Highly specialised manufacturing standards are applied, given the risks involved,” says Roger McCallum of Power Plastics.
Power Plastics has the capacity to weld clear polyethylene into single large fumigation sheets which are then placed over products. The welded seams are water- and gas-tight.
“During manufacturing and the handling of the sheeting, even the slightest oversight can compromise the sheet’s efficacy and can lead to gas permeation. We take the utmost care to avoid tears when folding, packing, shipping and erecting the fumigation sheeting,” says McCallum.
Power Plastics is able to customise the fumigation sheets to suit requirements, up to approximately 50 metres by 50 metres. Orders are shipped globally, usually via a part or full container load to minimise the transportation costs.
Also available are PVC or polyethylene “sandslange” or tubes in one metre lengths. The tubes are filled with sand and are used to seal the edges to prevent seepage of the fumes out of the sealed environment.
Fumigation sheets are manufactured in a clear or black polyethylene in thicknesses of 150 microns, 180 microns, 200 microns or 250 microns. PVC can also be used but this can be restrictive for smaller sizes due its weight compared to polyethylene.
“Flexibility and weight are important considerations when handling the material on site. There needs to be the right balance between adequate tear-resistance and weight when handling,” says McCallum.
Power Plastics also welds a food-safe 600 gsm PVC into sheets for use in protected agricultural environments. This sheeting can also be used to protect grain and other products from external influences such as rodents, birds, moisture and wind.
“When it comes to fumigation, it really does pay to work with industry experts. Inferior sheeting can lead to millions of Rand in damage. Then there are the health and safety risks – risks that could also turn into costly legal battles should you be found to be non-compliant. Chat to us about your custom fumigation requirements and let us protect you while you focus on other areas of your agri enterprise!” concludes McCallum.
To learn more about this range, visit http://www.containerliners.co.za/fumigation-sheeting.
Based in the Western Cape, Power Plastics has worked hard to secure its niche as a leader in Polyethylene, Polyprop, PVC and thermal materials for the industrial market. Other products include cold chain thermal products, scaffolding sheeting, shipping container liners, dam and reservoir liners and pallet covers.
To learn more about Power Plastics, visit www.containerliners.co.za or contact Chad on in*************@**************co.za or +27 21 7035880