Active Aqua 2.0 Ultra-Low Tray - 4' x 8' Grey

The rim effect refers to the tendency for plants along the outer edges of a flood tray to dry out faster than plants in the center — caused by increased airflow and ventilation at the tray perimeter. This creates an uneven moisture gradient across the tray that leads to inconsistent plant development and yield variation within the same bench run. The Ultra-Low Tray's unique channel geometry raises the water level slightly along the edges during each flood cycle, keeping edge plants irrigated slightly longer after drain to compensate for faster moisture loss — resulting in more uniform crop development across the full tray surface.

Yes — the Ultra-Low Tray is specifically designed for ebb and flow irrigation. The channel and gutter design is optimized for flood-and-drain cycles, and the anti-rim effect feature is only beneficial in ebb and flow applications where periodic flooding and draining creates the moisture differential between edge and center plants that the tray's geometry is engineered to correct.

The Ultra-Low Tray is compatible with the Active Aqua 4 x 8 Rolling Bench System (AARBK48), Active Aqua IZON Rolling Bench systems, and most standard 4' x 8' rolling benches and racking configurations. Confirm your bench's inner rail dimensions before ordering to ensure the tray seats correctly without overhang on either side.

A single layer of HIPS at 2.5" wall height would lack the rigidity needed to support commercial crop loads without flexing or deflecting under weight. The three-layer construction distributes stress across the full tray cross-section, delivering the structural integrity of a deeper tray in a significantly lower-profile format. The top layer's anti-UV stabilizer also functions independently of the structural layers — applying UV protection at the surface where light exposure actually occurs without adding weight to the full tray body.

Yes — the Active Aqua 2.0 Infinity Tray Drain Screen is an optional accessory available separately that prevents leaves, coco coir, soil, and other debris from reaching and clogging the drain outlet. It sits flush with the tray surface so pots can be placed directly on top without interference. Adding the filter at the time of tray purchase is recommended for any active production installation.

Flush the tray with water to remove loose debris, then apply a diluted hydrogen peroxide or enzymatic cleaner and scrub with a soft brush to remove salt deposits and biofilm from the channels and floor surface. The HIPS material is smooth and resistant to staining, making residue removal straightforward with minimal scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly before returning the tray to service to avoid introducing cleaning agents into your Active Aqua 2.0 Black Reservoir or nutrient solution.

The Ultra-Low Tray and Active Aqua 2.0 High Rise Tray serve opposite ends of the sidewall depth spectrum. The Ultra-Low at 2.5" is optimized for mobile bench systems where ceiling clearance and low overall bench height are the priority — best suited for ebb and flow with smaller pot formats. The High Rise at 7.5" is designed for larger root masses, taller containers, and heavier crops where deep lateral containment is needed. Choose based on your pot height, crop weight, and available vertical clearance in your grow room.