An advanced, positive pressure ventilation system that protects against viruses in pork production will be showcased by AP (Automated Production Systems) at the 2017 World Pork Expo June 7-9 in Des Moines, Iowa.

Brian Rieck, AP product manager, explains that positive pressure ventilation forces filtered air out of a building, reducing the chance of exposure to airborne pathogens which are more prevalent with traditional negative pressure designs.

“AP’s positive pressure system is an effective solution for maintaining healthy air quality for animals,” Rieck says. “This process prevents unfiltered, outdoor air from entering the animal living areas that might otherwise be compromised from air leaks or open air inlets in a negative pressure environment.” 

In the AP system, outdoor air passes through Camfil high-particle capture filters and continues through an evaporative cooling system. It is then forced into the animal living space via ventilation fans and through tunnel doors and/or ceiling inlets, depending on circulation needs. Finally, air is forced out of the building via wall shutters and actuated exhaust systems.

The ventilation process is connected to AP’s integrated EDGE system, which enables pork producers to set, monitor and manage all of the environmental functions in multiple barns or rooms from a single controller, using one interface.

“Positive pressure systems are essential to any successful virus protection plan,” Rieck states. “They provide the greatest protection of a producer’s investment against devastating airborne diseases.” 

John Carroll, a Missouri pork producer, recently installed AP’ positive pressure system in a new 3,000 sow barn. “It was really a no-brainer,’’ he says. “For us, it’s like buying an insurance policy.”

For more information, visit AP at booth #181 in the Varied Industries Building at the 2017 World Pork Expo, contact your AP dealer or visit www.automatedproduction.com.