Netafim NetaFlex Complete Irrigation System

Introducing the Netafim NetaFlex 3G, a cutting-edge irrigation solution designed to revolutionize the way you water your crops. This innovative system features state-of-the-art technology that allows for precise control over water distribution, ensuring optimal hydration for your plants.

The NetaFlex 3G is the perfect first step into fertigation.  Althought intimidating at first, the system is easy to learn and operate and even a beginner can become a fertigation technician if they pay attention and go through a commissioning course (Provided by MORR).  We have seen regular people without prior knowledge or background in irrigation become proficient in just a few days.

The NetaFlex operates using venturis that draw up nutrients.  These nutrient channels are metered using small solenoid valves that allow preset quantities to be programmed in and adjusted as needed. 

NUTRIENT CHANNELS

There are 6 inputs that some standard on a NetaFlex 3G.  (2) channels are  single channels and (4) channels are bridged.  Bridged channels blend the nutrients as they are drawn into the fertigation system.  The single channels should be used to separate concentrated pH chemicals such as white phosphoric acid (pH Down) and potassium hydroxide (pH Up). 

It is important to also keep Calcium on one of the single channels in separate it from Phosphorus in concentrate.

To determine channel compatibility and to ensure there will be minimal precipitation it is advised that a jar test be completed prior to setup.

• NetaFlex Low Flow comes with 13 GPH dosing channels
• NetaFlex High Flow comes with up to 156 GPH dosing channels

While dosing channels can be upgraded or downsized to accommodate high or low injection rates it is best to calculate the injection rate for each nutrient prior to purchase.  Should you need assistance we are happy to lend a hand.

MIXING CHAMBER

The large blue mixing tank comes standard on all NetaFlex units and is the main blending tank on the skid.  There is a float switch to stop filling and prevent overflow as well as a transducer in the bottom to notify users when the tank is empty and shut-off the pump to prevent dry run.

A hack we figured out for smaller farms that are mixing small batches of nutrients and find the large mixing chamber wasteful is to lower the float switch to reduce the mixing tank usage from approximately 50 gallons down to 10 to 15 gallons.  This ensures less waste when switching between zones and fertilizer recipes.

PUMP

Be sure to wire the pump correctly as many electricians have accidentally wired it wrong.  Each unit comes with wiring instructions and feel free to reach out if there is any confusion.  The pump will spin in reverse if the wires are mixed up.

Pumps come in several sizes so be sure to reference the information on the pump tag if ordering a replacement pump.  Additionally, check to see if that the correct phase and voltage is available onsite.  A phase inverter can be used when needed.  Additionally, ensure the breaker is sized for the amp draw to prevent electrical issues down the road.

Be advised that the pump included on the NetaFlex is a distribution pump that sends water out.  A supply pump will be needed as well.  We generally recommend the Grundfos CMBE 10-54 or the equivalent CRNE pump.  Pump sizing is available upon request.

CONTROLLER

There are several cards that may be needed when installing a NetaFlex.  They include Output Cards (For solenoid valves), Dry Contact Cards, Analog Cards, Digital Cards, and Communication Cards. A MORR technical associate can assist you in determining what will be needed for an installation.

Operating, programming, and setting up the NetaFlex is the most difficult part of operating the system.  Our team is ready and available to assist in commissioning systems, training, repairs, and testing should you need support.

ADDITIONAL PARTS

Be sure to get extra of every available part on the NetaFlex.  We cannot tell you how frequently parts are broken, either due to ware and tear or something falling on the machine and cracking a part, something is bound to happen eventually.  

A flow meter is needed to accurately determine how much fertigated solution is leaving the unit.  We generally recommend a 1.5-Inch or 2-Inch digital flow meter that sends 0.1 pulse/second.  This high frequency reading will ensure feedings are accurate.

Pressure sustaining/reducing valves are great to set down stream pressure and flow are constant.  If costs are spiraling out of control, a simple ball valve will sufice.

Be sure to install an air release valve after the pump or at the high point of the system.  When air gets trapped in lines air locks can occur and are often hard to identify.

(6) stock tanks will be needed and should be sized to hold nutrients in concentrate for up to a week.  Be sure to place stainless steel screen mesh filters on the lines prior to the (6) venturi channels to prevent clogging.

Filtration is needed on the outlet side of the NetaFlex and when possible automatic backflush filtration is recommended to ensure operators don't forget to clean up after themselves.  There are several filter options so reach out if interested in learning more.

INLINE OR BATCH TANK ORIENTATION

We generally don't recommend inline operation if flow rates will be under 15 gallons per minute although can be made.  Zone size plays a big role here as does quantity or recipes.  Consult with a MORR technical representative to learn more.  We have seen many systems installed and later removed when upfront planning is not sufficiently thought through.

TAKE CONTROL OF YORU GREENHOUSE AND INDOOR CROPS WITH SIMPLE YET EFFECTIVE FERTIGATION

• Applicable: Covers all applications ranging from greenhouse in soil, to very intensive soilless media
• Comprehensive: Works with a wide range of dosing channel units and flow rates (up to 6 units of 50-600 l/hr each)
• Scalable: Scales to system flow rates from 3m3/hr to 64m3/hr
• Quick: Features action dosing valves and efficient fertigation recipe adjustments
• Adaptable: Offers a wide range of integrated accessories and peripherals as well as a multilingual interface
• Low maintenance: Frame is corrosion-resistant aluminum andboth components and PVC piping are produced from the highest quality materials
• Versatile: Flow capacity goes from 0.1Ha to 10Ha
• Accurate: Provides 6 highly precise 50-600 l/hr (13-156 gal/hr) fertilizer/acid dosing channels

BEST PRACTICES

If this is your first rodeo with a NetaFlex there are some lessons learned that it makes sense not to repeat.  Please call MORR for a no charge consultation and review of best practices. 

The supply pump will eventually fail and we suggest plumbing in two pumps and rotating monthly which one you use.  This will ensure a pump is available even during service or pump repair.