Energy required to transfer heat through the radiant floor of a pig nursery module

Abstract

Abstract In the present work, the principle of underfloor heating used to maintain the temperature condition inside a pig nursery module is applied. The studied system uses gas generated in a biodigester to heat water that flows through the surface of the floor and transfers heat to the interior of the module where the piglets are located. The necessary thermal load is determined based on thermodynamic analysis considering the space where the pigs are as the control volume, which presents energy losses due to temperature difference with the outside through pairs and roof, in addition to those originated by renewal of air, in the same way, the heat losses during the flow of hot water through the pipes caused by convection between the pipe and the floor and by conduction in each of these materials are determined. The water flow and temperature required in the supply line are determined to transfer adequate heat to the interior and maintain the 33 m2 space at the desired temperature according to the life stage of the piglets.