Ammonia Sensors

It is well-proven that air polution due to high ammonia levels in broiler production results in a higher FCR, lower gain, and poorer animal welfare. Birds being exposed to high levels of ammonia can suffer from respiratory deseases, ammonia blindness, infections with Newcastle, the bronchitis virus and parasites, burned skin and feed, nutritional stress, suffocation, and even death. These sufferings will of course decrease production and increase breeding costs.

Early action benefits the productivity of the broilers as well as animal welfare. Thus, constantly monitoring the level of ammonia is essential for the poultry production. Furthermore, monitoring the level of humidity is also important, since a too high level of humidity in the livestock hous can cause formation of ammonia.

There are different ways to minimize the level of ammonia in a poultry production. One is ensuring a good quality of litter, air flow and ventilation in the house, a low level of humidity, and keeping the temperature down. Minimizing the level of ammonia have a major impact on the financial yield of the production. In fact, studies* have shown that ammonia concentrations as low as 25 ppm can reduce bird weights at 28 days of age by 2-7% while 50 ppm ammonia has been shown to reduce bird weights from 16-19%. An increased ammonia concentration can cut profits by $3,000 or more per batch in a livestock house with 25,000 broilers.

 

With dol-sensors’ ammonia sensors you can continuously monitor ammonia levels with great accuracy. Combined with a farm controller, the ammonia sensors can help ensuring automation of the ventilation system.

*Source: “Ammonia in the Atmosphere during Brooding Affects Performance of Broiler Chickens”, F. N. REECE, B. D. LOTT, and J. W. DEATON and “Poultry Housing Tips”, Volume 32, No. 1, University of Georgia

Two different ammonia sensors

dol-sensors have two different ammonia sensors:

Both ammonia sensors are specially designed for the harsh environment in livestock houses and last a lifetime. The sensors require no calibration during service life and low maintenance. DOL 51 and DOL 53 Ammonia Sensors integrates easily into existing houses and climate control systems and are easy to install.

The service life of DOL 53 ammonia sensor is 36 months. The end of service life is printed on the green label on the sensor element (replace by date). To achieve the full 36 months of service life, the sensor element must be installed on or before the expiry date, which is indicated on the metal can, that the sensor is delivered in.

The sensor has a replacable sensor head and dust filter which enhances its durability. No need to buy and install a whole new sensor.

FAQ

What is an ammonia sensor?

An ammonia sensor is a device that monitor an measures the level of ammonia in the air in a closed environment. An ammonia sensor can be used as a tool for automating ventilation in a livestock house, to ensure a low level of ammonia and thus a great animal welfare.

How do you monitor ammonia in the air?

To monitor ammonia in the air you can use an ammonia sensor that is placed hanging from the sealing in the middle of the room.