Development of a Steam Powered Incubator with Solar Supported System

Abstract

This research work deals with the development of incubator powered by steam generated from boiled water in which the inner components and micro – controller are powered by solar system. The eggs incubator is designed to be powered by steam source of energy. The materials selected for the fabrication of the incubator were, plywood, Aluminum foil, Gas cylinder and aluminum condenser pipe. The wood was coated with aluminum foil inside in order to prevent heat loss, the six electric bulbs were introduced to complement the heat when the major source was down and three (3) D.C fans of 1.3A rating each for uniform distribution and circulating of heat. All these components were controlled by an integrated micro-controller circuit by sensing and processing the data (Temperature and Humidity). The Temperature, Humidity and egg turning mechanism were controlled and regulated by configuring micro-controller based on the operating conditions of the incubator. The performance evaluation of the designed incubating machine was tested for the period of 18-28 days. The incubating temperature range of (37-39OC) was maintained throughout the incubating period, and the relative humidity ranged from 45% to 60% was also maintained.