Uncertainty in the measurement of indoor temperature and humidity in naturally ventilated dairy buildings as influenced by measurement technique and data variability

• DOI: 10.1016/j.biosystemseng.2017.11.004
• Publication Date: 2017-11-29T05:48:29Z
• Authors: Sabrina Hempel; Marcel König; Christoph Menz; David Janke; Barbara Amon; Thomas M. Banhazi; Fernando Estellés; Thomas Amon
• Keywords: Inflow; Heat index; Operative temperature; Instrumentation; Natural Ventilation

The microclimatic conditions in dairy buildings affect animal welfare and gaseous emissions. Measurements are highly variable due to the inhomogeneous distribution of heat humidity sources (related farm management) turbulent inflow (associated with meteorologic boundary conditions). selection measurement strategy (number position sensors) analysis methodology adds uncertainty applied technique. To assess suitability different sensor positions, situations where monitoring direct vicinity animals is not possible, we collected long-term data two naturally ventilated barns Germany between March 2015 April 2016 (horizontal vertical profiles 10 5 min temporal resolution). Uncertainties related setup were assessed by comparing device outputs under lab after on-farm experiments. We found out that measurements relative particular importance when assessing stress risk resulting economic losses terms temperature-humidity index. at a height approximately 3 m–3.5 m turned be good approximation for occupied zone (including air volume close emission active zone). However, further investigation along this cross-section required reduce uncertainties humidity. In addition, regular sound cleaning (and if possible recalibration few months) devices crucial instrumentation barns.