Thermal environment in two broiler barns during the first three weeks of age

Robinson Osorio H,Jairo A Osorio S,Lina M Guerra G,Ilda F F Tinoco,Luciano B Mendes,Keller S O Rocha

doi:10.1590/1807-1929/agriambi.v20n3p256-262

Abstract

ABSTRACT The objective of this research was to evaluate the internal thermal environment of two broiler barns featuring different ventilation systems representative of Brazilian and South American poultry production industry: (a) a negative-pressure tunnel and (b) a positive-pressure lateral ventilation system. Environmental parameters such as dry bulb temperature, relative humidity and temperature-humidity index were assessed; temperature maps for day and night average conditions were determined for the first three weeks of life. Better uniformity of the thermal environment and comfort conditions inside the negative-pressure tunnel were found.

Highlights

Broiler chickens, like all warm-blooded animals, seek to maintain a constant body temperature at minimum effort by the thermoregulatory mechanisms (Baêta & Souza, 2010)
There is a range of ambient dry bulb temperature (Tdb) in which broiler chickens show better performance with less energy expenditure and minimal effort of thermoregulatory mechanisms, enabling better feed conversion, rapid body growth and lower mortality
This study aimed at evaluating the distribution profile of thermal variables in two different broiler barns featuring different ventilation systems, both of which are representative of Brazil and South America

Summary

Introduction

Like all warm-blooded animals, seek to maintain a constant body temperature at minimum effort by the thermoregulatory mechanisms (Baêta & Souza, 2010). There is a range of ambient dry bulb temperature (Tdb) in which broiler chickens show better performance with less energy expenditure and minimal effort of thermoregulatory mechanisms, enabling better feed conversion, rapid body growth and lower mortality. This Tdb range is known as the thermal comfort zone (Tinôco et al, 2004). Under cold stress conditions, broilers attempt to maintain homoeothermia through increased heat production and consumption of energy (feed) and reducing heat loss. Some of the regulatory mechanisms include remaining still, huddling together and avoidance of drafts (Brody, 1945)

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Conclusion