Spring 2025 www.pigchamp.com 17 CHALLENGES WITH VENTILATION TECHNOLOGY Addressing Barn Management Pig production is an ever-changing business with new challenges arising regularly. From disease prevention to meeting compliance with animal confinement regulations, the latest set of challenges certainly continues the tradition of having serious repercussions on the industry. Although many questions remain on how to properly manage these issues, one thing is certain—ventilation technology is a key component in adapting to current demands. PMSM Fans The newest ventilation fans available to pig producers use Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) technology. These motors offer variable-speed capability, unlike traditional on/off fans that only run at full speed or not at all. PMSM is also an improvement over TRIAC-controlled fans, which can run at variable speeds but use energy-wasting technology to do so. TRIACs (Triode for Alternating Current) work by simply taking away voltage from the motor to run at slower speeds. Unfortunately, this can be damaging to the motor over time—especially for those higher voltage motors—and it also reduces the amount of torque produced by the motor. The energy that is taken away from the motor is burned off through a heat sink, so the producer doesn’t experience energy savings. On the other hand, PMSM fans use magnets to turn the rotor, which spins at the same speed as the internal rotating magnetic field. These fans can produce up to 30 percent more cubic feet per minute (CFM) than traditional barn fans. They can also reduce energy costs by up to 90 percent when the fans are running at 30 percent of speed. As the speed is reduced, less energy is consumed. Another benefit of PMSM fans is that they maintain constant torque, even at lower speeds, allowing them to react quickly and ramp up speed more easily when needed. If a headwind hits the fan or pressure in the room changes, the blades of a PMSM fan won’t slow down, thanks to the improved torque. Controller Technology The latest barn management controllers allow producers to take full advantage of PMSM technology. This includes the ability to achieve smoother linear curves in airflow. A look at how innovative ventilation solutions are designed to tackle common barn management obstacles and ensure optimal livestock health and productivity. Chris Elvidge, Engineering and Tech Service Manager, PigTek It’s not enough just to have fans; for the best efficiency, the type of fan and its placement location are key.
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