AAF targets virus transmission in swine and poultry operations with new BioShield VXLA filter

AAF says the filter can maintain airflow while helping reduce airborne disease transmission in swine, poultry and other controlled-environment agricultural operations.

AAF International, a member of the Daikin Group, introduces the BioShield Line for Animal Science, an air filtration product family developed specifically for swine, poultry and other controlled-environment agricultural operations. Debuting at the World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa, AAF introduces its first product as part of this family: BioShield VXLA, a 17-inch-deep V-bank filter rated at MERV 15 and MERV 16.

Airborne disease transmission remains one of the most persistent threats in commercial swine and pullet barn operations. According to a 2024 analysis by Iowa State University, it is estimated that Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) impacts the US pork industry by about $1.2 billion per year in lost production. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has cost the poultry industry well over $1 billion in indemnity and compensation payments to cull flocks and restore operations.

"Proper ventilation is critical in these operations,” said Carlos Lora, global director of the animal science high purity segment, AAF International. “However, the science around filtering that air is still relatively new and recent studies are showing that it can be highly effective in mitigating virus contamination in these environments.”

BioShield VXLA addresses a core performance challenge in filtration-equipped barns: achieving high-efficiency particle capture without restricting the airflow producers depend on for animal health and welfare. Its 17-inch-deep V-bank construction incorporates 30% more media area than a comparable 12" deep V-bank filter, allowing for a slower increase in resistance as dirt builds up. This helps maintain higher airflow for a given pressure drop over a longer period of time and can result in extend service life and subsequent reduction in maintenance frequency.

The water-repellent media within BioShield VXLA maintains filtration efficiency through the wet, high-humidity conditions common in swine and poultry operations. A seamless foam-in-place gasket and fully sealed corrosion-resistant plastic frame minimize bypass and withstand the handling conditions of barn installation and changeout. BioShield VXLA is fully incinerable, simplifying end-of-life disposal for agricultural operations.

“High-efficiency air filtration is among the few proven tools producers can deploy to reduce airborne pathogen entry,” adds Lora. “Taking a proactive approach can have a significant impact on keeping global food supplies and prices stable.

The BioShield VXLA is available from AAF International. Producers and integrators attending the World Pork Expo can meet with the AAF animal science team at booth #V309.

Source: AAF