In this edition, we focus on the hatcher—and why solving condensation issue is the key to successful hatching.

Condensation—commonly referred to as “sweating”—is a persistent issue in industrial incubation systems. It occurs when water vapor condenses on colder surfaces inside the machine, potentially disrupting the delicate hatching environment. While often associated with hatchers, this challenge is just as relevant in setters. In this article, we’ll focus on hatchers, with solutions for setters coming up in our next feature.

Why Does Condensation Form in Hatchers?

During the hatching process, relative humidity is typically maintained between 50% and 70% to soften the eggshell that the chicks must break through in order to hatch. This high humidity, combined with internal cabinet temperatures of 98.0 to 98.5°F, creates an ideal environment for condensation—if there’s a significant temperature difference between internal air and colder surfaces.
If the difference exceeds 8°C (approximately 14.4°F), condensation becomes almost inevitable, which leads to the risk of microbial growth, shell contamination, and reduced hatch rates.

How LINCOOL Technology Solves the Problem

In LINCO’s advanced hatchery systems, LINCOOL technology introduces a groundbreaking cooling approach. Cooling occurs gradually, ensuring that the temperature difference between the LINCOOL system and the incubator cabinet doesn’t need to exceed 8°C (14.4°F). As a result, this smooth temperature regulation will avoid condensation triggering.

By eliminating thermal shock, LINCOOL maintains a stable and condensation-free environment, ensuring optimal conditions for the final stage of incubation.

Continuous Water Flow: A Smarter Temperature Control Strategy

All LINCO heating and cooling systems rely on a principle of continuous water circulation. Even when the machine doesn’t heat or cool, water continues to flow through the system, maintaining temperature consistency during the hatch.

When temperature adjustments are needed, cold or warm water is introduced gradually, avoiding sudden changes in temperature that could cause condensation at air-contact surfaces. This intelligent design not only prevents moisture buildup but also supports uniform environmental conditions across the incubator.

Benefits of Preventing Condensation in Hatchers

Avoiding condensation inside your hatcher is more than a matter of cleanliness—it’s a strategic advantage that directly boosts performance:

• Improved Hatch Rates: A dry environment reduces moisture accumulation on eggshells, optimizing gas ( CO₂/ O₂/ H₂O) exchange and increasing hatch rate.
• Reduced Microbial Growth: Lower surface moisture means fewer opportunities for bacteria and fungi to grow, providing better biosecurity.
• Healthier Chicks: Chicks that hatch in a stable, controlled environment experience less stress and improve their vitality and post-hatch health.

In Summary

Condensation is a serious technical and biological threat—not only in hatchers but also in setters. In this article, we explored how LINCOOL technology tackles the problem head-on in hatchers by managing temperature differences with precision.

Stay tuned for our next article, where we’ll unveil LINCO’s unique approach to preventing condensation in setters—a different environment that demands an entirely different approach.