Summary

This research project will focus on investigating the efficiency of exhaust fans utilised by the meat chicken industry. This will be achieved through the completion of a desktop study, followed up by an on-farm assessment of fan performance.
Initially, a comprehensive review will be undertaken of currently available fan models on the Australian market. The information obtained from the desktop review will used to meet other objectives in this project, but can also be used as standalone data to aid industry in the selection of efficient and economic fan models. Following the review, a method will be identified and trialed to assess ventilation fans on-farm. A variety of techniques to assess fan performance will be identified and trialed to determine their suitability as a reliable of-farm assessment tool. Once a method is identified, a rigorous assessment program will be conducted for a variety of fan models and fan ages, from numerous meat chicken farms in south east Queensland. This assessment will provide much needed information related to fan operation, and when compared to data obtained from the desktop review, will provide actual performance figures.
A final objective from this project will be to develop a user guide for the in-situ assessment of ventilation fans. This guide will outline a suitable, reliable method for the in-situ assessment of ventilation fan performance. It will also include information and findings from the desktop study to enable guide users to assess individual fan performance compared to manufacturer specifications, as well as make informed decisions when deciding to replace or upgrade. The target audience for this guide will be producers and industry personnel. This guide will greatly enhance the understanding of fan performance and operation, and will assist producers and the industry to operate in a more efficient and sustainable manner.

Program

Chicken Meat

Research Organisation

OLD ABN-The State Of Queensland Acting Through The Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation

Objective Summary

The objectives of this project are to undertake an assessment of exhaust fans currently available in Australia and overseas in terms of performance and efficiency to:
– Provide a comprehensive list of exhaust fans to aid in the selection of efficient and economic fans models for the Australian meat chicken industry.
– Provide an economic analysis of operating the most efficient fans available compared to less efficient fans; and
– Provide an economic analysis of replacing old fans with energy efficient fans including energy savings and payback periods.