Heat and Mass Transfer in HVAC Systems of Poultry Farms

Abstract

This article examines heat and mass transfer processes in HVAC systems used in poultry farms, with a focus on maintaining optimal indoor microclimate conditions during the winter season. The study highlights the importance of controlling temperature, humidity, and air quality parameters to ensure bird health, productivity, and energy efficiency. Various ventilation strategies are analysed, including mechanical and minimal ventilation systems, as well as their limitations in regulating humidity and energy consumption. A key contribution of the research is the investigation of air dehumidification methods, particularly condensation-based dehumidifiers, as an alternative to excessive ventilation. The paper compares condensation and sorption drying techniques, identifying condensation systems as more suitable for high humidity and temperature conditions typical of poultry houses. The integration of dehumidification with ventilation systems is proposed to reduce moisture levels while minimizing heat losses. The authors develop heat and mass balance models to quantify moisture generation, airflow requirements, and thermal loads within poultry facilities. Based on these models, a technical solution is proposed that combines minimal ventilation with distributed condensation dehumidifiers. This approach allows for effective humidity control, recovery of latent heat, and reduced need for heating large volumes of incoming cold air. Results demonstrate that the combined system significantly lowers energy consumption compared to conventional ventilation methods, especially when supplemented with heat recovery technologies. The findings indicate that minimal ventilation with dehumidification provides the most energy-efficient solution, while also maintaining suitable environmental conditions for poultry. The study concludes that such systems have strong potential to improve sustainability and operational efficiency in modern poultry farming, though further experimental validation is recommended.