A little known phenomenon called the 'Black Globe' Effect has a pronounced stress factor relating to the cost efficiency (or inefficiency) of weight gain in meat-producing animals and birds. Whether an animal is outdoors or indoors, in temperatures exceeding 78°F, it absorbs a tremendous increase in radiant energy from the sun. Although the animal may be confined to a building, the “Black Globe Effect” on the animal is the same as if it were actually 10 to 20°F higher than air than air temperature.
Studies show that with the elimination of the 'Black Globe' Effect through the use of reflective foil insulation, many improvements are immediate apparent. In the dairy industry, an increase of as much as 10% in milk production has been noted. Also noted: a conception rate improvement of nearly 24%. Broiler house feed conversions went from averages of 2.3 to 2.8 lbs. of feed per lb. of bird to a much improved 1.99 feed conversion.
Many growers find that their animals grow faster and more efficiently after installing reflective insulation. Death losses from heat are greatly reduced.
