Ropes and cables for anti-hail systems by Blutref: guaranteed protection and reliability

Summer is approaching, and with the pleasant weather comes also an increased risk of hail damage for producers in the fruit-growing and wine-making sectors. How can you protect your crops from these adverse weather events?

Why are hailstorms more frequent in summer?

While it may seem counterintuitive, hailstorms primarily occur in the summer because clouds grow larger during warm periods, and temperature range is greater. Water droplets are carried upward by strong updrafts during thunderstorms into extremely cold parts of the atmosphere where they freeze.  When the currents can no longer support the hailstones, these fall to the ground. During and after a hailstorm, the temperature can drop rapidly as the hailstones melt into water, absorbing heat from the environment. The most significant damage occurs in agriculture, as even small hailstones can destroy an entire crop.

Blutref has you covered: the Italy-based company produces galvanized and stainless steel ropes for anti-hail systems tailored to agro-entrepreneurs’ needs. Let’s explore their various types and benefits:

Supporting and flexible ropes: different applications, same quality and reliability

Blutref's anti-hail ropes are widely used in vineyards, hop gardens, and orchards, as well as in various types of cultivation that require protection from weather events. These ropes are used as classic ties for poles (whether concrete or steel ropes), providing support, tensioning, and anchoring for both rows and hail protection nets.

Considering the different needs of producers who wish to protect their crops, Blutref offers two main categories: supporting and flexible ropes. Each has specific characteristics and advantages, making them more suitable for certain applications.

Anti-hail ropes for structural support

In extreme weather conditions, such as strong winds or heavy hail, Blutref recommends its rigid anti-hail ropes. These stretched, strong ropes, usually with larger diameters, withstand high stresses and offer greater structural stability. Thanks to their strength, they require minimal maintenance and ensure long-term durability. They are ideal for large, fixed installations that require lasting stability.

Flexible anti-hail ropes for use with pulleys, reels, and unwinders

Flexible anti-hail ropes are suitable for mobile cover operation: lighter and more flexible, they are perfect for hail net rolling and unrolling, even automatically when controlled by sensors. Their versatility allows for easy assembling and installation in various configurations, making them useful in numerous contexts, especially on uneven ground.

Both types are available in various materials and coatings: stainless steel, hot-dip galvanized for high corrosion resistance and optionally covered in plastic. Blutref's experts can provide the right advice based on your specific needs.