Air distribu­tion plays a key role in insect farming

In insect farming, even air distribution is crucial for success. Gert Boersma of Equans Refrigeration explains what is necessary for an optimal and energy-efficient air handling system. Companies looking to farm insects for animal or human consumption are advised to consider the conditioning of the farming space at an early stage.

Uniform conditions everywhere 

"In an insect farming space, uniformity is key, ensuring that conditions at the top of the space are the same as at the bottom. Farming often takes place in buildings that are several meters high. Good air distribution is critical to avoid variations in temperature or CO2 levels in different parts of the farming space, which could negatively impact the farming process," says Gert Boersma, Project Manager at Equans Refrigeration and Heating Solutions.

Necessary information for optimal design 

Before the optimal design of an air handling system can be established, various data are required. In addition to the design of the storage system and available space, the dimensions of the trays in which the insects live are relevant. Equally important is information about the farming duration, the different life stages of the insects, and the moisture content of their feed. Also, how much heat and CO2 do the insects generate during these stages? Are there any special considerations? And are there any bacterial vapors that need to be extracted?

Cheese maturation 

"With that information, we can design an optimal air handling system," Boersma continues. Such a system consists, on the one hand, of an air handling unit that cools, heats, humidifies, or dehumidifies the air depending on demand. On the other hand, the system includes an air distribution network that circulates air in the farming space. Based on the data, we determine where to introduce the conditioned air. You can compare it to cheese maturation, where conditioned air is introduced along each cheese on every shelf."

Smart use of heat 

Since insect farming generates a lot of heat, it pays to integrate the air handling system with a heat pump installation. "In this way, we make maximum use of heat recovery. The recovered heat can be used throughout the company, from the farming space to the offices. The energy-efficient system is tailor-made in line with the latest technological advancements."

Read about the necessary technology for insect farming
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