The effectiveness of an animal building’s ventilation system is usually characterized in terms of air exchange capacity (by measuring the air speed) and air distribution (by measuring the inlet air speed and airflow pattern). These parameters are more apt for troubleshooting and not sufficient to quantify the system’s performance in relation to contaminant removal. Limited studies have been done on the evaluation of the animal building’s performance in terms of contaminant removal effectiveness. Standard quantitative criteria and measurement methods applicable to animal buildings are also lacking. This paper reviews the existing ventilation effectiveness criteria and measurement methods that have been found useful for application to other mechanically ventilated buildings. Based on the reviewed criteria and measurement methods, the paper also discusses the most applicable criteria and methods for evaluation of an animal building’s ventilation system. This work is a major component of ASHRAE Research Project 1301, “Quantification of Ventilation Effectiveness for Air Quality Control in Plant and Animal Environments.”

Units: Dual