During poultry transport, animals are exposed to changing outdoor conditions while heat and moisture are generated inside a densely loaded vehicle. A suitable climate therefore depends on the distribution of ventilation air through the complete load rather than on the total ventilation flow alone.
FlowMotion used CFD to analyse the airflow and temperature distribution in a poultry transport truck. The model represented the relevant ventilation openings, internal geometry and the resistance of the animal containers to the airflow.
The simulations showed how fresh air entered the vehicle, how it was distributed through the load and where warm air or regions with low ventilation could develop. External wind and vehicle motion could also influence the pressure distribution around the openings and therefore the internal airflow.
Different ventilation concepts and geometric modifications were compared to obtain a more uniform climate throughout the vehicle. CFD thus provided a basis for improving animal-level conditions under realistic transport situations.
