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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Mississippi State, Mississippi » Poultry Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #283165
Title: Design and operation considerations for attic inlets

Author
item Purswell, Joseph - Jody

Submitted to: Symposium Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/12/2012
Publication Date: 4/12/2012
Citation: Purswell, J.L. 2012. Design and operation considerations for attic inlets. Proceedings of the North Carolina Broiler Supervisors Short Course, April 12, 2012.

Interpretive Summary: Improving energy efficiency and environmental control in poultry facilities is essential for profitability. Increases in energy costs have prompted evaluation of solar energy systems and passive solar systems such as attic inlets have been adopted as a means to reduce fuel usage. Successful implementation of solar-based pre-heating systems is dependent upon availability of solar radiation, attic design, inlet placement, and inlet design. Placement of the vent towards the primary sunlit surface is critical to maximize energy collection. Attic air temperature sensor placement should also be considered if used as a control parameter and shielded to limit radiant heat transfer. Simulation models have shown that modification of attic spaces to increase contact time with roof surfaces in combination with risers on inlets may provide additional energy when compared to unmodified attics.

Technical Abstract: Improving energy efficiency and environmental control in poultry facilities is essential for profitability. Increases in energy costs have prompted evaluation of solar energy systems and passive solar systems such as attic inlets have been adopted as a means to reduce fuel usage. Successful implementation of solar-based pre-heating systems is dependent upon availability of solar radiation, attic design, inlet placement, and inlet design. Placement of the vent towards the primary sunlit surface is critical to maximize energy collection. Attic air temperature sensor placement should also be considered if used as a control parameter and shielded to limit radiant heat transfer. Simulation models have shown that modification of attic spaces to increase contact time with roof surfaces in combination with risers on inlets may provide additional energy when compared to unmodified attics.