Swine Nutrition Guide

Posted in: Energy by admin on January 1, 1995 | No Comments

Water needs for various classes of swine are illustrated. Nipple drinker flow rate varies depending on the age of the pig. Wet/dry feeders that incorporate a nipple drinker as the sole source of water have reductions in slurry volume by up to 40%. Water quality related to bacterial contamination and levels of sulfates is addressed.

Using Straw as a Farm Heating Fuel

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The use of straw as a heating fuel on the farm is growing in popularity because it helps to reduce the farm’s dependency and related expenditures on fossil fuels and electricity, and it provides a practical and environmentally acceptable alternative to stubble burning. An inexpensive supply of fuel is usually close at hand. Most grain farms produce enough straw each year to supply a straw-burning system. However, even if straw for fuel must be purchased, it is usually a worthwhile venture. PAMI gratefully acknowledges the funding assistance provided by the Canada Manitoba Agreement on Ag Sustainability (CMAAS) for the research on this project.

The Nurtinger System – A Natural System for Keeping Pigs

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The principle of the Nurtingen system is to surround the pigs body with air like a blanket, while the head is lying in the cold, breathing fresh air. The bed is made of rigid polyurethane and is therefore hygienic, well insulated and very stable. The warm air is coming out of a heater which is installed in the top plate of the bed. Because the pigs will only want to have their bodies in the warm air, they will lie with their heads outside the entrance. Lying in this fashion, the animals satisfy their need for warm amd fresh air. As the bed provides a warm, draft free place for the piglets to rest, the air in the sty can be kept cooler and fresher. Heating costs can be kept very low. You don’t need a heater for finishing pigs, as they warm up their beds from the beginning themselves. A reduction in total losses and an increase in the litter rearing weight in the suckling phase can be realized. The Nurtingen System is much more economical and fair to the animals.

Alternative Housing and Environmental Needs for Grower-Finisher Pigs

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Conventional grower-finisher barns can cost $175 to $250 per pig housed. If straw is available and other factors such as manure handling, barn siting, pig handling, building life span, pig health and differences in feed conversion are considered, then alternative housing such as “bioshelters” at $55 to $65 per pig housed may be attractive. This article will review the engineering aspects of alternative housing.

Heat is a Key Element in SEW Success

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SEW has the potential for improved production rates but requires environmental assistance from producers. Heat must be provided to ensure that pigs are kept warm, above their LCT. One proven method of providing heat to SEW pigs is by hot water floors. They provide heat to the pigs at rest when they need it most. Using this system, room temperature can be reduced substantially over forced air heating systems thereby saving on heating costs. It is critical to ensure the hot water heat system is properly designed. New developments include a new heat exchanger tube which provides uniform heat output and two stage heaters save 12% in operating costs over single stage heaters.

Air Leakage and Ventilation Effectiveness for Confinement Livestock Housing

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An Evaluation of Heating and Ventilation Control Strategies for Livestock Buildings

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Degree Days and Energy Saving: Analysis of a Method of Calculation for an Optimal Microclimate in Livestock Buildings

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Field Evaluations of a Low Energy Swine Nursery Facility

Posted in: Energy by admin on January 1, 1994 | No Comments

Natural Ventilation – 10 years later

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Natural ventilation has become a very viable alternative to fan ventilation for growing and finishing pigs. Like many newer technologies, it has had its problems and is following a typical learning curve. However, it is here to stay and will likely increase in popularity with rising energy costs and an increased use of straw bedded, group housing arrangements. Today’s naturally ventilated barn is quite a bit different than the early 80’s model. Sidewall and ridge openings are discussed along with controls for natural ventilation and building location.