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Barn maintenance pays off in two ways: reducing operating costs as well as preventing potential pig health challenges. Always turn off the electricity to the fans before you begin. Dirty fan shutters can reduce ventilation performance up to 40 percent. Air inlets are an overlooked component in most mechanically ventilated systems. "With actuated inlets, the cables can stretch after extended use and require adjustment," says Jay Harmon, agricultural and biosystems engineer, Iowa State University. Verify that the generator transfer switch works and document the test history. Repair or Replace? The answer to that question typically is "it depends. Harmon qualifies that rule by adding it also depends on the wear of all the piece in question. "For instance, if there's only one part that wears on a feeder or heater, and all of the other parts are pretty much like new, then it might be good to repair it. The risk also needs to be considered. Poor waterer performance can lead to reduced water intake, which can lead to all kinds of pig performance problems, Harmon says. Equipment that may not be operating at or near ideal levels can add to production costs as well as decrease pig performance. Fan Maintenance is no Hot Air Since dirt and debris buildup on fans and shutters can shorten the life of the fan and reduce efficiency, maintenance on the assemblies is crucial, according to Steve Matthis, dean of agricultural programs, Sampson Community College, Clinton, N. "Ceiling inlet actuators also need to be greased to prolong their life and help ensure proper function. Although heaters will be running less as summer approaches, they should be checked and serviced regularly. Check for relay contact corrosion and clean or replace parts if necessary. You could have to clean or replace water lines or other mechanisms. " Some curtain manufacturers do offer repair kits. "Check the curtain-drop ropes and make certain that the curtain is getting pulled up tight all of the way," Zulovich adds. Water plays an important role in pig production and you need to check waterers, hoses and connections regularly Any gaps around pit fans can reduce ventilation capacity and cause short-circuiting. They should be cleaned at least twice a year. Patch any holes or tears in the curtains and be sure they are adjusted to overlap where needed and that curtain ends are enclosed properly. "If the material is still strong, duct tape can work pretty well. |
Saturday, 10 March 2012
It's Spring Maintenance Time
