Molsgaard ensures clean air with UVC

At Molsgaard pig breeding - a specialised operation with focus on raising high-genetic-quality breeding animals - a high level of biosecurity is essential for maintaining a stable and healthy production. With a herd of 1,100 breeding sows as well as Landrace and Duroc boars, strict control of infection pathways is required – including the air supplied to the facility.


Challenge with incoming air

Incoming air can be a significant source of contamination in modern livestock production. Traditional negative-pressure ventilation systems with wall inlets and diffuse ventilation can result in dust, dirt, and microorganisms being drawn into the livestock facilities.

For Molsgaard, the objective was therefore clear:
to ensure controlled air intake with minimal risk of introducing infection.


A targeted UVC solution

In collaboration with SKOV A/S, a controlled positive-pressure ventilation system was established, where all incoming air is treated with UVC.

The solution includes a total of 57 chimneys, all equipped with UVC light, tailored to the specific airflow requirements of the facility. At the same time, the ventilation system was converted to controlled positive pressure, where air is drawn in over the roof ridge.

This means that:

  • Incoming air is effectively disinfected
  • The risk of contamination from dust and dirt is reduced
  • Infiltration of “false air” through cracks and leaks is minimized

The UVC lamps are installed in specially designed units with a steel core, which protects the installation and ensures long service life.

 

Operational reliability and peace of mind

The system is monitored online and operates continuously 24/7, providing full control and high operational reliability.

For the owners, Søren and Allan Gade Nielsen, this results in greater peace of mind in everyday operations – even during periods of high infection pressure.

A drone view of the installation shows the rooftops at Molsgaard, where air exhausts are now accompanied by air inlets that prevent contamination from false air entering through cracks and leaks. The UVC lamps are installed inside the intake chimneys, which are lined with a steel core to protect against degradation from the light.


Supplementary UVC solutions

As part of the overall solution, a CleanBox has also been installed for disinfection of incoming items such as tools and personal belongings.

In addition, UVC technology is widely used in agriculture, including:

  • Wet feed tanks, where growth of bacteria and fungi is reduced
  • Water systems, where stable levels of microorganisms are maintained

This contributes to more consistent production quality and supports animal welfare.



Increased control and strengthened biosecurity

With UVC disinfection of incoming air, Molsgaard has established an effective barrier against infection.

The result is:

  • Increased biosecurity
  • Cleaner and more controlled air supply
  • Greater production stability
  • Confidence in daily operations