Optimization of operating conditions for egg setters using computational fluid dynamics simulations

As the poultry industry continues to expand, improving hatchability during the egg hatching stage is crucial for meeting rising demand in the poultry sector. To address this critical gap, this study used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to analyze the internal airflow and thermal environment of large-scale setters under various operational conditions, including fan speed, tray-level configuration, and tray turning angle. The objective was to optimize operating conditions to enhance egg hatchability. The results showed that increasing fan speed enhanced internal air velocity, whereas increasing tray levels reduced airflow velocity. Thermal flow analysis demonstrated that maintaining a fan speed of 80 RPM produced optimal temperature uniformity within the setter, ensuring favorable hatching conditions. The study also identified a 15-level tray configuration that was optimal for hatchability, and unidirectional egg turning maintained uniform temperature and humidity distributions. These findings emphasize the importance of balancing airflow, temperature, and humidity to improve hatchability and hatching productivity. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into optimizing large-scale setters for improved poultry production efficiency and sustainability by proposing effective operational strategies to enhance hatchability.