Ball valves for irrigation used to be manually operated, but nowadays this is increasingly more automated. Someone who knows all about water technology in the greenhouse, is Hein Braaksma. "Everything which can be automated, is more and more often automated. The water-technical installation in a greenhouse horticulture company is now supplied as a plug-and-play system. With an actuator on the valves in the unit, you can remotely close and open everything."
Hein Braaksma
At the end of last year, Hein started the company PSI Flow Technics. With PSI, Hein, no stranger in the industry and, according to himself, passionate about the market, is mainly focused on automating valves by means of electric engines or pneumatic devices. "I have 28 years of experience in water technology. The automation of ball valves has always intrigued me. Last year, I thought: maybe it is nice to start something for myself in this direction."
That turned out to be PSI - for the term for pressure. Mentor Cees Paauwe, founder of Power Plastics, and colleague Jack van Winden, supported Hein in this step. Hein: "All three have gained much knowledge and experience in water technology. We focus on automation, but can also provide service to our customers on a broader aspect of water technology."
Together with engine producers
Besides supplying existing technology, PSI is also developing new products. "We have been able to implement such innovations to drain water pre-control that it has 50% less pressure loss with much better control characteristics than a traditional mixing valve. Engine producers are open to this kind of suggestions. In this way, an engine is developed to the customer's wishes."
It is the interaction with customers which Hein likes so much. "Every day we get questions from customers and like to dive in to find a solution. We are small, but have large ambitions. Besides expecting significant growth, we want to remain an extension of our customers. Think along with them and share experiences."
For more information:
P.S.I. Flow Technics
Hein Braaksma
hein@psibv.nl