Electrostatic Particle Ionization

Baumgartner Environics, Inc.

The Electrostatic Particle Ionization (EPI) system from Baumgartner Environics, Inc. (BEI) helps create a healthier environment in buildings by using static electricity to collect and control airborne particles. EPI uses electrode pins, called corona points, to electrically produce negative ions. When concentrations of negative ions are in the air, they tend to polarize airborne floating particles. This causes the polarized particles to wedge together on edges and “stick” to grounded surfaces such as the ceiling, walls and floor of a building. This prevents the particles from being inhaled into the respiratory tract of both pigs and humans in the barns.

“EPI will reduce dust particles, ammonia, hydrogen sulfide and odors from the air,” says John Baumgartner, president of BEI. “An abundance of negative ions interferes with the cellular functions of microbes. The result is that many microbes are killed or disabled by the EPI system.”

Joel DeRouchey asked about the run times for the EPI System. Baumgartner says the system is designed to run continuously, 24 hours/day, seven days a week.

“The ion discharge process is continuous, and the ions discharged immediately polarize new particles encountered in the treated airspace,” Baumgartner says. “You can feel the difference in air quality overnight.”

Jay Harmon asked about the system's energy use. Baumgartner explains: “The EPI is extremely energy efficient, using only 90 watts to clean the air in a typical 1,200-head finishing barn. It is possible to enjoy clean air in a whole building for the cost of lighting a light bulb.”

Matt Thome asked if there were any special cleaning considerations. Baumgartner says some extra care is needed when power washing to ensure the dust adhering to ceilings, walls, floors, gates and feeders is cleaned from all surfaces. The EPI system is stainless steel and is cleaned along with the other surfaces in the barn.

“The EPI system should be turned off, and make sure the corona points are pointing down after cleaning,” Baumgartner advises. “The points can sometimes bind on the suspension cable and point toward the ceiling.”

He also recommends turning the EPI off once every two weeks and cleaning dust off of the ceiling directly above the corona discharge points with a broom. “After cleaning the ceiling, turn the system back on. This helps to maintain the ion discharge rate and system performance over the production cycle,” he says.

The panel felt the EPI system could potentially help improve air quality and promote healthier working conditions for anyone working in the barns.

“Air quality is not only important for the pigs, but also for the health of people spending time in the barns,” Feder observes. “I will be interested to see if improved air quality can be measured in performance of the pigs.” The panel wondered about the durability and longevity of the system, but overall, thought it was a commendable product.

The cost of the EPI System is around $4.50/pig space. The actual price quotation is based on the square footage of the area that is to be treated. Visit www.beiagsolutions.com or call 320-523-1644 or 800-823-4234 for additional information.

VSS 700 Pregnancy Checker

Veterinary Sales & Service

The VSS 700 Pregnancy Checker has been available from Veterinary Sales & Service for about six months.

“Veterinary Sales & Service has an exclusive arrangement with the Chinese manufacturer to produce this ultrasound unit,” explains Todd Mezera, director of Sales for Veterinary Sales & Service. “The unit is built to be water resistant and easy to clean.” The VSS 700 can detect pregnancy as early as 20 days.

An internal, six-hour battery comes standard. An additional, external battery will provide another 3-4 hours of scanning time.

The panel felt the VSS 700 Pregnancy Checker is designed to be simple to use and easy to clean. They thought the cost seemed quite reasonable.

The VSS 700 comes complete with the scanner, case, probe and internal and external batteries for $3,500. Additional probes are available at the time of purchase for $500.

Visit www.vetsales.net, or call 800-617-0503 for more information.