NP Structures will unveil its new Constant Tension Retractable (CTR) Roof System at IPM Essen, where the team will be exhibiting in Hall 7, Stand 7A28.2.
Developed to give growers greater control over light and airflow, the CTR system is engineered for continuous adjustment, rather than simple open-and-close operation. A constant-tension roll-off mechanism allows the roof to be positioned anywhere along its travel and held securely in place – even in changeable or windy conditions.
© NP Structures
This enables growers to fine-tune environmental conditions throughout the day, adapting precisely to crop requirements, weather patterns, and seasonal variation.
"We designed the CTR system around the idea that real climate control isn't binary," says Jack Wolfenden, Director at NP Structures. "Growers don't just need to open or close the roof – they need to hold it exactly where it delivers the right balance of light, airflow, and protection. Constant tension is what makes that possible."
© NP Structures
By providing instant access to natural light and airflow, the CTR roof allows crops to be hardened off in situ, reducing the need to move plants, allocate additional space, or increase labour. The roof covering offers 84.4% light transmission, supporting strong crop development while allowing exposure to be moderated as conditions change.
"What stood out during development was how much simpler it makes day-to-day growing," adds Wolfenden. "Hardening off can happen in the same structure, cutting labour and reducing risk at a critical stage of production."
When closed, an integrated interlocking ridge cowl forms a wind-tight and water-tight seal, with automatic sealing during closure and features designed to prevent debris and moisture ingress. When open, the rolling action naturally sheds water and debris, helping extend the life of the cover.
For more information:
Northern PolyTunnels
[email protected]
https://northernpolytunnels.co.uk/
