PCF Upgrade Recommendations

PCF Upgrade Recommendations

The following tables summarize the PCF Upgrade Recommendations currently under consideration by the PCAC to make significant improvements to the PCF greenhouse facilities. Please note that some projects are underway, some cost estimates have not yet been developed, and funding for all items listed has not yet been secured.

Phase 1
Water Treatment PSL & Tuner Hall	Upgrade capacity of PSL RO water system, extend DI system from the TH building into TH greenhouse, install acid injection for PSL and TH greenhouses. Northern Illinois Water has changed how they treat our "city water". Both the pH (8.6 to 9) and the alkalinity of the city water are high enough to cause nutrient problems with many greenhouse crops. The RO system in PSL frequently runs dry. Note: PSL RO system = $7,500 (includes labor).
Upgrade Pads/Pumps Turner Hall	Improve system to hold pads in. Move pumps inside as necessary. Note: In-house project (maintenance funds)
Alarm System Turner Hall	Extend Argus Control System sensors into the Turner Hall greenhouse to provide alarm, call out, and temperature data logging functions. The alarm system requires long runs of conduit which will be re-used when the TH greenhouse control system is upgraded. Note: $30,00 (maintenance funds). Completed 1/6/1998.
New Control System PSL	Continue installation of Argus Control System. Note: Phase 3 - completed 1/22/1999. 21 rooms remain to upgrade at $57,000 plus labor.
"Repair" Leaks Turner Hall	Wash grime off roof bars. Note: In-house project.

Phase 2a

New Exhaust Fan Shutters

Turner Hall

New shutters will open/close fully providing better cooling, less heat loss, and will help to keep insects out.

Note: This problem is generating more user complaints as it gets colder outside. $7,714 for 58 fans, labor provided in-house. See also Turner Hall Greenhouse Upgrade Recommendations.

New Motorized Side Vent Operators

Turner Hall

New system will push/pull vents from the outside. This will provide reliable operation, easier servicing, and allow for an unbroken row of cooling pads inside each room. Also, reshape outdoor pump covers extensions so ice will not build-up.

Phase 2b
Pesticide Handling Facility Turner Hall	Provide separate, ventilated storage and work area.
Motorized Roof Vent PSL and Turner Hall	Provides much improved winter ventilation when used with HAF fans. Includes vents in TH crosshouse and PSL main corridor. Note: See also Turner Hall Greenhouse Upgrade Recommendations.
HAF Fans Turner Hall	Used with motorized roof vents for improved winter ventilation, also provides internal air circulation and much improved heat distribution when vents are closed. Note: See also Turner Hall Greenhouse Upgrade Recommendations.
Roof Vent Screens Turner Hall	Required with use of motorized roof vents to keep insects, birds and squirrels out of the greenhouse. Note: See also Turner Hall Greenhouse Upgrade Recommendations.
Expanded Metal Bench Tops Turner Hall	The open mesh design will provide better air circulation around the plants, reduce disease problems, and allow for easier sanitation. Note: See also Turner Hall Greenhouse Upgrade Recommendations.
Photoperiod Shading Turner Hall	Required in 3 greenhouse rooms. Note: $40,000
HID Lighting PSL & Turner Hall	Add struts and HID lamps for PSL greenhouse, add power distribution, controls, struts and HID lamps for TH greenhouse. Note: For PSL, $39,680.55 for 117 lamp fixtures. Struts/controllers for $93,303
Vestibule and Entry Cover Turner Hall	Replace rotting structure at NE door and provide a cover for heavily used N door (adjacent to garage door). Note: $4,200 dollars plus demolition and labor.

Phase 2c
New Control System Turner Hall	To provide reliable controls and control functions suitable for the greenhouse environment. Note: $78,000 plus labor (maintenance funds).