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Aerotech Tunnel Ventilation Systems

By Aerotech

Last reviewed: December 2025

Tunnel ventilation creates high-velocity airflow through dairy barns, providing effective heat stress relief and improved air quality for lactating cows.

Overview

Tunnel ventilation systems move large volumes of air through dairy barns at high velocities, creating wind chill effects that help cows stay cool during hot weather while improving overall air quality.

How Tunnel Ventilation Works

Basic Principles

  • Large exhaust fans on one end
  • Controlled inlets on opposite end
  • High-velocity air movement
  • Wind chill cooling effect
  • Air Speed Targets

  • 5-7 mph for moderate conditions
  • Up to 10 mph for extreme heat
  • Consistent airflow across pens
  • System Components

    Exhaust Fans

  • High-capacity wall-mounted fans
  • Direct drive or belt drive options
  • Variable speed controls
  • Protective guards and shutters
  • Inlet Systems

  • Automated curtains or panels
  • Sized for proper air velocity
  • Even air distribution
  • Winterization options
  • Controls

  • Thermostats
  • Variable frequency drives
  • Automated management systems
  • Weather integration
  • Benefits

    Heat Stress Reduction

    Effective cooling through wind chill effect improves:

  • Feed intake maintenance
  • Milk production
  • Reproduction
  • Overall health
  • Air Quality

    Continuous air exchange reduces:

  • Ammonia levels
  • Pathogen concentration
  • Humidity
  • Odors
  • Design Considerations

    Building Orientation

    Ideally align barn length with prevailing winds.

    Cross-Sectional Area

    Proper sizing for desired air velocity.

    Barn Length

    Longer barns may need staging or additional systems.

    Integration with Other Cooling

    Soaker Systems

    Combine with water application for evaporative cooling.

    Shade Structures

    Reduce heat load before air movement.

    Evaporative Pads

    Cool incoming air in dry climates.

    Key Features

    • High-Capacity Exhaust Fans: Large fans for maximum air movement
    • Controlled Inlets: Manage air entry for even distribution
    • Variable Speed Drives: Adjust airflow based on conditions
    • Automated Controls: Temperature-based fan staging
    • Emergency Override: Backup systems for power failures

    Advanced Features

    • Evaporative Cooling Integration: Combined system for maximum cooling
    • Air Quality Monitoring: Sensors for optimal ventilation rates
    • Energy Management: Efficient fan staging to minimize costs

    Ideal For

    Farm Types: Freestall dairies, Enclosed barns

    Competitive Advantages

    What sets Tunnel Ventilation Systems apart from alternatives:

    • Consistent, predictable airflow regardless of weather
    • Controllable environment for optimal cow comfort
    • Can combine with evaporative cooling
    • Proven technology in hot climates

    Pricing Information

    Here is the pricing information for Tunnel Ventilation Systems:

    High-capacity tunnel ventilation fans for dairy barns.

    Pricing Model: Ventilation system installation

    Aerotech, Munters, and other manufacturers. Essential for hot climate dairy operations.

    Pros & Considerations

    Advantages:
    • Proven tunnel ventilation design
    • Excellent cow cooling
    • Energy-efficient fans
    • Quality construction
    • Technical support
    Considerations:
    • Building design requirements
    • Installation investment
    • Power requirements
    • Maintenance needs

    Implementation & Setup

    How to implement Tunnel Ventilation Systems on your dairy operation:

    Implementation Timeline: 2-4 weeks for complete system installation

    Training & Support

    Training and support options available for Tunnel Ventilation Systems:

    Support Channels:

      Evaluation Questions

      Key questions to consider when evaluating Tunnel Ventilation Systems:

      1. Is your barn suitable for conversion to tunnel ventilation?
      2. What are your maximum heat load conditions?
      3. What is your electrical capacity?
      4. Would evaporative cooling integration be beneficial?

      Explore Ventilation & Cooling Systems

      Explore all Ventilation & Cooling Systems solutions in the Therio Dairy Directory to compare features, pricing, and alternatives.

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