In times of increasing water scarcity and stricter environmental regulations, sustainable solutions for resource conservation are becoming ever more important. With its innovative cover spheres (Bird Balls), Euro Matic offers an efficient way to minimize water loss through evaporation while simultaneously significantly reducing algae growth on open water surfaces.

Physical principles of evaporation

Water evaporation is a natural process by which water moves from the surface into the atmosphere. This process is influenced by various environmental factors:

• Temperature: Higher temperatures accelerate molecular motion and increase the evaporation rate.

• Wind: Air movement causes the boundary layer saturated with water vapor above the surface to be transported away more quickly.

• Solar radiation: In particular, UV and infrared radiation heat up the water surface and promote evaporation.

• Surface characteristics: The larger the free water surface, the higher the evaporation loss.

The solution: Cover balls from Euro Matic

Euro Matic's cover balls – also known as Bird Balls – are made of durable, UV-resistant polyethylene and are distributed across the entire water surface. They form a flexible, floating barrier that covers 91–95% of the surface – without completely preventing water exchange.

Effect on evaporation

Studies and simulations show that covering the water surface with bird balls can reduce the evaporation rate by up to 90% . This occurs through several mechanisms:

• Shading effect: The spheres block direct sunlight and thus lower the surface temperature.

• Windbreak: The spheres act as a micro-barrier against wind movement, thus interrupting convection at the water's surface.

• Reduced evaporation surface: Only minimal gaps remain between the spheres, drastically reducing air contact.

Algae growth – a result of light and nutrients

Like plants, algae need light, water, and nutrients for photosynthesis. Sunlight and UV radiation, in particular , promote the growth of green algae and cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) in open ponds, reservoirs, and wastewater treatment plants.

Bird Balls as a light barrier

By almost completely covering the water surface, the cover balls prevent light—especially UV light—from penetrating the water. This leads to:

• Severely limited photosynthetic activity

• Reduced algal biomass

• Reduced need for chemicals (e.g. chlorine, flocculants)

Advantages over classic covering systems

Sustainability & Economic Efficiency

By using cover balls, significant savings can be achieved throughout the year:

• Water consumption : Reduction of up to 90% in open pools

• Energy consumption : Less need for refilling and temperature control

• Chemical use : Reduction of biocides through reduced algae growth

• Cost savings : Lower operating costs, longer maintenance intervals

Typical applications

• Wastewater treatment plants and open treatment basins

• Water reservoirs and retention basins

• Thermal power plants (cooling water storage)

• Agricultural water storage

• Chemical industry (solvent evaporation protection)

Euro Matic's cover spheres are a highly effective, sustainable, and low-maintenance solution for reducing water evaporation and algae growth . They are ideally suited for a wide range of applications – from industrial settings to public swimming pools – and actively contribute to resource conservation and environmental protection.

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