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Modern pig farming is now hard to imagine without automation of farm processes. The advantages include saving time and personnel resources, precise control of consumption by various systems and the ability to adjust parameters in time. There is nothing to say about the importance of quality water supply for animal life, because water is the main resource that directly affects their health. Nipple drinkers are an important element of modern water supply systems, which have numerous advantages for increasing the productivity of livestock.
What are nipple drinkers and how do they work?
Nipple drinkers only dose water when the pig touches a special valve (nipple) with its heel. The valve automatically closes as soon as the pig stops pushing. This mechanism allows access to clean water at no extra cost and minimizes the risk of dirt and feed getting in.
The nipple drinker consists of a valve (nipple), a housing that holds all the internal mechanisms, a filter for water purification, a flow regulator. There is also the attachment itself, thanks to which the drinker can be fixed on the wall or special construction, and a protection against leaking.
Depending on the groups of animals, these systems are slightly different from each other. Nipple drinker for piglets has a small nipple and is fixed at a height of 15-40 cm from the floor. The water flow is small so that the young animals can drink easily. For fattening pigs, the nipple drinker designs are sturdier so that they can withstand the active interaction of the animals; the water flow is medium, and they are mounted higher - 50-70 cm above the floor.
For sows, nipple drinkers are installed for a higher water flow with the possibility of temperature regulation in summer. The height is adjusted individually, depending on the design of the machine.
Advantages of using nipple drinkers for pig production
Nipple drinkers for pigs are easy to maintain; these systems are practical and rarely break down. Hygienic housing conditions reduce stress levels and the risk of disease, which has a positive impact on the overall health of the herd. Due to constant access to water, feed is better digested. It also has a positive effect on the reproductive performance of sows that are provided with the right amount of water during lactation.
However you look at it, the use of nipple drinkers is a sensible solution in pig production.
How to choose and install a nipple drinker?
What are the criteria for choosing a nipple drinker?
- Material. It can be stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion and which does not affect water quality. You can choose high-quality, non-toxic plastic elements, light in weight. Either way, the material should be durable to withstand the active interaction of adult pigs.
- Size. The diameter of the nipple is selected depending on the age and weight of the animals: for piglets - 14-18 mm, fattening pigs - 18-22 mm, sows - more than 22 mm. The length of the nipple should be convenient for drinking.
- Performance. Water flow is also regulated differently: piglets - 0,3-0,6 l/min; fattening pigs - 0,6-1 l/min, sows - 1-1,5 l/min.
- Filters for water purification.
- Height adjusters for adjusting the drinker to the pig's height.
The number of drinkers is calculated at the rate of 1 per 10-12 pigs. They should be installed at such a distance from the feeding area that food does not get into the water.
Do not neglect the maintenance of the drinkers, as they will last longer. For example, they should be cleaned weekly, and more often in case of high animal density. Change filters according to the manufacturer's instructions. In winter, the system should be protected against freezing, and in summer - monitor the water temperature so that it is within comfortable temperature limits.
Why farmers choose nipple drinkers in Vada.ua
In fact, to buy now nipple drinker - no problem, the choice in the market is large: choose for any need and for a different purse. Turning to a specialized company or store, you will help you pick up the necessary model, even recommend how to properly install and maintain in the future. VADA has a wide range of quality solutions for pig production. Experienced narrowly focused engineers working with farms of different types and sizes, will help you to correctly select not only the drinking system, but also other equipment for your farm, will tell you how to assemble a nipple drinker, and if necessary - help in installation. Therefore, the choice is yours - where to buy nipple drinkers. The main thing is that they should serve you for a long time and perform their function well.
11/01/2025
