"This probe is affordable, extremely reliable in the field and brings about astonishing savings in heating costs," said product manager Andreas Kerssens. "Our customers are enthusiastic!"

In connection with the MC 135 or MC 235 climate computers, the new Big Dutchman sensor ensures not only a dynamic minimum ventilation control on the basis of carbon dioxide concentration. A new and unique feature in livestock management is the combination of carbon dioxide concentration measurement and humidity measurement as a control variable.

Fixed minimum air rates based on fixed carbon dioxide emissions per animal and thus resulting in raised exhaust air rates are now a thing of the past. Due to the simple structure of Big Dutchman minimum ventilation with great precision on the basis of carbon dioxide concentration and relative humidity of the house air, energy costs will be significantly reduced. Reliable calculations prove possible savings in heating costs of up to 35 per cent in comparison to traditionally controlled ventilation systems.

above: New and so far unique in the industry: The dynamic Big Dutchman minimum ventilation on the base of CO2 concentration and relative humidity of house air.
below: Small sensor with great effect: The new DOL 17 sensor works reliably and reduces costs

"This is not only easy on the purse but at the same time, a direct contribution to environment and animal protection," said Mr Kerssens.

The reason for the development of the new system is the fact that finishing pigs as well as growing poultry have a constantly changing oxygen consumption depending on their weight and level of activity. Oxygen is then transformed into carbon dioxide and emitted into the environment.

Moreover, traditional ventilation systems control the climate in the house only depending on temperature and humidity of air. The disadvantage of this is that some decisive factors will not be considered adequately which have a major influence on the health and well-being of the animals as well as the energy consumption for heating and ventilation.

Particularly on the agricultural sector registration of the exhaust air stream has been discussed for a long time to be able to practice precise minimum ventilation. It is the distinct target to offer the animals an appropriate environment and to reduce energy costs to offset the heat difference in the house as much as possible.

Minimum exhaust air rates can be determined depending on age or weight of the animals due to limit values for carbon dioxide mentioned in the official standard DIN18910-1 (2004) but up to now, they could be put into practice only in rare cases. This was due to technical reasons mainly since the measuring fans used up to now are only in a limited way able to meet the dynamic requirements.

The DOL 17 sensor by Big Dutchman is supplied in a rugged plastic housing and is thus efficiently protected against the house environment. A practical connector system allows easy attachment. This ensures that the sensor can be easily detached for cleaning the house.