Shaw unveils HydroChill to combat heat on synthetic turf

HydroChill, which has been in development for nearly three years, has shown cooling effects of as much as 50 degrees compared to normal synthetic turf systems.

"Shaw Sports Turf is committed to extraordinary performance, and the new HydroChill technology is a result of that commitment," said Pete Sigmon, Vice President of Innovation at Shaw Industries.  "This system provides a substantial cooling effect that will have a great impact on athletes in extreme climates."

When athletes sweat, evaporation cooling takes place when evaporation of moisture from the skin's surface has a cooling effect. HydroChill works on the same principle.  As the turf surface is heated by solar radiation, moisture stored in the turf is released, leaving a cooler, more comfortable surface for athletes.

The technology is applied to a field where components react and form a coating on the infill.  The field is watered to activate HydroChill and then energy from sunlight drives out water, removing heat from the surface.  The cooling effect of HydroChill after watering can last two to three days.  Watering alone can result in some cooling, but temperatures can rise and quickly exceed uncomfortable levels of heat.  HydroChill creates a substantial and sustained temperature difference.

HydroChill provides maximum benefit when the sun is nearest the Earth.  During the summer months the sun is positioned overhead, causing surfaces to absorb more energy, resulting in hotter temperatures.  Temperature differences of 50 degrees have been seen on an outdoor field.  Studies have shown that temperature differences of over 30 degrees provide a noticeable increase in the comfort level to athletes.

About Shaw Sports Turf

A wholly-owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Shaw Industries is a full flooring provider to the residential and commercial markets. Shaw supplies carpet, rugs, hardwood, laminate, resilient, and tile/ stone flooring products, as well as synthetic turf.  Shaw Sports Turf is one of the leading synthetic turf companies in North America and has represented quality and innovation for more than two decades with over 1,000 successful installations, including an impressive list of high-profile field installations.

Shaw Sports Turf