Influence of ventilation systems and related energy consumption on inhalable and respirable dust concentrations in fattening pigs confinement buildings

Abstract

In this paper are presented the results of experimental analysis of the influence of ventilation systems and related energy consumption on inhalable and respirable dust concentrations in fattening pigs confinement buildings. The application of different under pressure ventilation systems in reducing and controlling dust concentrations was analyzed. Optimal ventilation systems designs and the ranges of airflow velocities were defined and discussed. Airflow velocities in the finishing room, under floor, roof and both ventilations, ranged from: 0.01 to 0.10, 0.01 to 0.10 and 0.02 to 0.10 m/s, respectively. The average inhalable dust concentrations during the reference regime (no ventilation), as well as second (floor-), third (roof-) and fourth (both ventilations) regime were: 20, 20, 25 and 17 particles/cm 3, respectively. The average respirable dust concentrations during the reference regime, as well as second, third and fourth regime were: 18, 19, 23 and 16 particles/cm 3, respectively. Significant decrements of inhalable ( F = 44.35, P ≪ 0.01) and respirable ( F = 43.82, P ≪ 0.01) dust concentration, in the finishing fattening pig house, were achieved only with the fourth regime (both ventilations).