How to Produce a Top Quality Chick.

How to Produce a Top Quality Chick. In a hatchery – particularly in the setter and hatching trays – ventilation is key to producing a top quality chick. The following four components are essential so chicks get what they need to grow and develop according to their genetic potential. 1. Oxygen. Throughout incubation, chick embryos must have an adequate supply of oxygen so that they can develop fully and properly. Oxygen enters through the shell while carbon dioxide (CO2) escapes in the same manner. 2. Air Exchange. Eggs emit CO2 as they develop, but embryos need oxygen to survive and hatch. Therefore, the air inside a setter must constantly be replaced – bringing in fresh oxygen and removing excess CO2. 3. Air Distribution. It’s important that the air flows evenly so that each room receives the right amount of cool air and oxygen at all times. If you have a unit distributing a certain number of cubic feet per minute (CFMs), placement of the air conditioning unit and ductwork is crucial to make sure fresh air reaches each room at the same rate. There is a register in each setter machine ensure air is distributed in the correct amount of air at all times. more