Stock theft statistics recently released by the South African Police Service (SAPS) have recorded a steady increase, with Gauteng farmers being hit the worst. The installation of electric fencing serves the dual purpose of protecting livestock from theft or predators and enhancing livestock management through the improvement of pasture utilisation. At Chemvet Steel & Fencing, we proudly supply a range of Stafix and JVA products, protecting your livestock with trusted electric fencing solutions.
Careful Selection of the Components for Your Electric Fencing
Electric fencing offers the benefit of keeping livestock in while keeping predators and criminals out. It is important to note that the fence only needs to deliver a short, safe shock to discourage further contact. Here are three components of electric fencing you need to consider:
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Energisers
The size of the energiser is based on the species of livestock that needs to be contained. For example, sheep have natural insulation through their woolen pelts and therefore require a bigger energiser. As horses sweat and have salt on their hides, smaller units are more beneficial to their sensitive hides. We would also suggest that you consider moisture, as vegetation tends to thrive in moist conditions, which could affect the efficacy of the energiser.
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Earthing System
Poor earthing systems will greatly reduce the effectiveness of your electric fencing. The circuitry, soil conditions, and correct spacing of the electrodes as well as earth stakes all play a vital role in ensuring optimal functionality of the earthing system. Correct spacing of the electrodes by the energiser and earth stakes along the fence line will deliver the required amount of current. Proper insulation will then ensure that the full amount of energy is discharged through the wires when the circuit is closed. Remember to keep earth stakes at least 2 metres away from any mains power.
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Fencing
The longer the fence line, the more powerful the energiser needs to be for your electric fencing. As the purpose of the fence is to protect your livestock, we would suggest that you consider the thickness and type of metal first due to their different coefficient properties. For example, galvanised wire fencing, which is thicker, has a lower resistance than stainless steel fencing of the same diameter.
Linking, understanding, and applying these three basic components correctly will provide you with an affordable and effective solution for livestock protection and control.
Advantages of Using Electric Fencing for Controlled Grazing
Short portable electric fencing or existing fencing with offset wires can be used effectively for controlled or strip grazing. Sectioning off several areas or camps in pastures with permanent strands of electric fencing safely demarcates grazing, resting, and growing pastures. Strip grazing areas are controlled by using portable poliwire single-strand fencing that taps off the other subdivided fences. Ideally, the energiser should be located in the centre of the camp layout, enabling it to power all the necessary sections. The benefits of installing electric fencing are numerous, the biggest being that your livestock will have access to clean, uncontaminated pastures.
Leaders in Superior Quality Steel and Fencing Products
Since 1979, we at Chemvet Steel & Fencing have manufactured fully customised quality fencing products at affordable prices. Offering customers delivery, installation, and DIY solutions makes us the go-to specialists in the industry. Contact us today. One of our expert team members is always on hand to assist you with your unique fencing requirements.
