Munters positive pressure ventilation: a game changer for hog health, efficiency, and sustainability

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS)

Hog farmers in Iowa fight porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) daily. A PRRS outbreak can cost upwards of $225 per animal to remediate, and estimated annual costs to the industry are $664 million in the United States alone.

Proactive PRRS mitigation

A proactive, forward-thinking advocate for PRRS mitigation, Iowa Select Farms is committed to innovation. They embrace technological advancements and apply scientifically validated principles throughout pork production. Recognizing the far-reaching impact of PRRS on sows and piglets, Iowa Select prioritizes comprehensive protection for their 242,500 sows across 48 sow farms. Positive pressure ventilation Munters, a pioneer in positive pressure ventilation for pig farms, introduced this concept to curb the spread of disease. Iowa Select Farms joined forces with Munters over four years to build 30 sow farms and 10 gilt developer units equipped with this innovative technology. The pig farming company opted to retrofit existing structures rather than build new ones, cutting costs by 50%. All barns use Munters Drive motors with electronically commutated (EC) technology, delivering 40% in electricity savings and reducing environmental impact. The systems have improved the herd health for more than 300,000 sows. During the summer, a filter wall removes pathogens from outdoor air before the air passes through an evaporative cooling wall. Munters Drive VX51 fans pressurize the building’s attics with cooled, filtered air. Munters BI28 Inlets regulate airflow, and Munters backdraft shutters prevent pressure drops during windy conditions. An actuator adjusts curtain openings using pipe drive systems to maintain constant pressure and provide an outlet for metabolic gases. This top-down ventilation system minimizes condensation and the risk of building rot, unlike negative pressure systems that allow unfiltered air in through even the smallest openings. The Munters Drive provides precision control of temperature and pressure, enabling operation at higher static pressures without using more electricity. The variable speed of the control drive also contributes to more precise temperature and pressure control. Iowa Select estimates its positive pressure ventilation system has prevented eight times more PRRS outbreaks, increasing pig production by 25% and reducing pre-wean mortality by 19%. Employees report a healthier and more enjoyable work environment, and the herd is easier to manage.