Mechanical Ventilation

Exhaust ventilation is the most common type of system used in modern swine facilities. It takes three basic components: properly sized fans, properly sized and distributed fresh air inlets, and controls. The fans and inlets must be designed to provide at least three stages of ventilation. A minimum, continous ventilation rate for winter, a mild weather rate for temperature control during the fall and spring, and a maximum rate to control the temperature rise of the building in summer. The following publications are recommended for detailed information on mechanical ventilation design:

Swine Facilities and Equipment

(AEnL 557, Cooperative Extension Service, Clemson University),

Mechanical Ventilating Systems for Livestock Housing

(MWPS-32, Midwest Plan Service, Iowa State University), and

Heating, Cooling, and Tempering Air for Livestock Housing

(MWPS-34, Midwest Plan Service, Iowa State University).

The advantages of mechanical ventilation are: (1) the airflow rate and distribution can be controlled precisely during all weather conditions, (2) in farrowing and nursery rooms heating energy needs can be reduced by using a controller that turns the heater off when the second stage of fans is activated by the thermostats, and (3) maximum airflow rates can be assured during periods of minimal summer wind.

The disadvantages of mechanical ventilation are: (1) energy cost to operate the fans, (2) maintenance costs of fans, inlets, and controls, (3) requirement of a standby generator for use during power outages. Many of the disadvantages of mechanical ventilation can be overcome by: (1) purchasing high-quality energy efficient fans, (2) selection of durable inlet designs, and (3) using wall curtains that are designed to drop open in the event of a power failure.

Return to Management of Odor and Sources Return to Odor Control Return to The Land Application of Animal Manure.