Conditions at a poultry processing plant during the hot, humid Southern summer can become extremely uncomfortable. Interior temperatures can rise well above 100°F, leading to concerns of heat exhaustion and lost productivity.

That’s why Golden Rod Broilers, Cullman, Ala., turned to Patterson Fan Co., Columbia, S.C., for help.

“[These high-velocity] fans are located throughout the processing area and rooftop to aid in air movement from intake to exhaust,” says David Lesnansky, assistant plant manager at Golden Rod. “[They are also] used to aid in condensation control.”

This function is of paramount importance, as current USDA regulations prohibit any condensation from dripping onto the product or forming in product or non-product areas.

In addition to the large rooftop exhaust units, Golden Rod Broilers primarily uses Patterson’s 22-inch high-velocity barrel fans to meet their air movement needs. However, these are not the standard Patterson powder-coated blue barrel fan. Golden Rod selected fans made with galvanized steel. This process of coating the fan parts with zinc provides a much greater resistance to rust—a vital necessity in the high humidity of north central Alabama.

“We have purchased several 22-inch fans and several rooftop units. [Patterson Fan’s sales staff] keeps in touch with me from the time I place the order until the fans arrive at our facility. If a problem arises, Patterson takes care of it immediately,” says Lesnansky.

Patterson Fan Co. has been providing high-velocity fans, large high-volume ceiling fans, ventilation fans and evaporative coolers since 1989.