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^0 1985

Swine Housing
Facilities

/dlboria

AGRICULTURE

Agdex 44Q/72I-I

Copies of this publication may be obtained from:

Print Media Branch
Alberta Agriculture

7000 - 113 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6
OR

Alberta Agriculture's district offices

Reprinted 1985 01 3M

Swine Housing Facilities

Prepared by:

Brian Kennedy

Regional Agricultural Engineer
Vermilion

AxxKi

AGRICULTURE
Engineering

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 1

OPERATION SIZE 2

BUILDING ARRANGEMENTS 3

HOG BARN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS 7

Concrete 7

Wood 7

Metal 8

Insulation 3

Asbestos-Cennent Board 9

Gypsum Board 9

Plastic 9

Paints and Other Coatings 9

FLOORING MATERIALS 10

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 15

LIGHTING SYSTEMS 16

VENTILATION SYSTEMS 17

Exhaust Ventilation System 13

Pressurized Ventilation System 21

Natural Ventilation 21

HEATING SYSTEMS FOR HOG BARNS 22

WATER SUPPLY 28

Water Quality 28

Water Equipment 28

SIZING THE HOG BARN 29

FARROWING HOUSING AND EQUIPMENT 30

Sow Wash 30

Farrowing Crates 30

WEANER HOUSING AND EQUIPMENT 33

Floor Pens 33

Weaner Decks 33

HOUSING THE BREEDING HERD 35

Outdoor Sow Housing 35

Confined Sow Housing 35

Environment 36

Space Requirements 36

Water and Feed 37

Facilities for New Breeding Stock 37

FEEDER HOUSING AND EQUIPMENT 38

SWINE FEED PROCESSING AND HANDLING 40

Proportioning Equipment 40

Burr Mills 40

Hammer Mills 41

Mixers 41

FURTHER INFORMATION AVAILABLE FROM 42

APPENDIX 43

Digitized by the Internet Arcinive
in 2015

lnttps://archive.org/details/swinehousingfaciOOkenn

INTRODUCTION

Many factors must be considered when building or
remodelling a swine barn. This chapter looks at some of
the major considerations. In order to survive financially,
a producer needs to construct a swine barn
economically and still have an efficient hog production
factory.

Some of the items discussed in this publication are: site
considerations and zoning regulations; water and
electrical services; heating and ventilation; hog
equipment and barn layouts.

There are two stages to hog production:

1. Farrowing, with weaning of the piglets at 3 to 8
weeks, 5 weeks being common.

2. Growing and finishing the pigs to market weight at 22
to 28 weeks of age.

Many farms handle both stages of hog production in a
farrow-to-finish operation. Others specialize and
produce weaners in a farrow-to-wean operation, or
finish pigs to market weight in a finisher operation.
When choosing a production system; the decision
should be based on the capital available to construct
the barn, labor available to operate the system, feed
availability, management experience, and personal
preference.

Temperature-controlled confinement buildings provide
the best swine environment for Alberta conditions. The
growing pig, 32 to 65 kg (70 to 145 lb), has the most
efficient feed conversion at 21° C, while the finishing pig
shows the best feed conversion at 15° C. Temperatures
are not as critical to the breeding herd. Confined swine
facilities that include a farrowing area, a weaner area, a
grower-finisher area, and a gestation area, are typical.
These facilities represent an investment ranging from
$2000 to $3000 per sow (1984 prices).

Regulations of many agencies may dictate building
location and waste disposal. A building permit is
required from your county or municipality for
construction of your barn. Permits for electrical wiring,
gas or oil burner installation, plumbing and sewage
disposal are also required. Board of Health regulations
pertaining to hog keeping will also apply. Construction
of any hog barn for 500 or more pigs requires Board of
Health approval before construction begins.

Obtaining a Certificate of Compliance is intended to
give the farmer some degree of protection should there
arise a dispute regarding pollution, provided the
operation and level of management are similar to those
at the time the certificate was granted.

Several agencies are involved in evaluating a Certificate
of Compliance application. Any or all of the following
may be involved in evaluating a Certificate of

Compliance:

1. Local government

2. Regional Planning Commission

3. Department of Highways

4. Local Board of Health

5. Department of Environment

6. Department of Labour
7 Alberta Agriculture

Contact your local district agriculturalist for information
regarding the Certificate of Compliance program.

Utility services, i.e., water and electricity are essential to
a swine operation. Ensure that you have an adequate
supply of both at your proposed site. Assistance in
evaluating and planning a water supply is available from
Alberta Agriculture through the engineering
technologist located in the regional agricultural offices.

Accessibility is also a consideration. Good roads and
driveways are needed to move feed into the barn and
pigs and manure away from the barn.

Most successful swine operations increase their size
over time. Plan yours for this future expansion.

OPERATION SIZE

The size of your swine operation will depend on many
factors. One of the factors often not considered fully is
the labor requirements of a hog operation.

A good rule to follow is 80-100 sows farrow-to-finish per
experienced full-time operator. An inexperienced full-
time operator can handle 50-60 sows farrow-to-finish. In
a finishing operation a full-time operator can handle
1500-4000 pigs per year. Table 1 provides a guide to the
labor requirements for hog production.

TABLE 1

GUIDE TO HOG OPERATION LABOR REQUIREMENTS

Farrow-to- Wean

Number of Sows

non-automated

automated

37 man-hr/sow

20 man-hr/sow

35 man-hr/sow

18 man-hr/sow

100

20 man-hr/sow

15 man-hr/sow

Farrow-to-Finish

Number of Sows

non-automated

automated

45 man-hr/sow

30 man-hr/sow

40 man-hr/sow

26 man-hr/sow

100

36 man-hr/sow

23 man-hr/sow

Feeder Operations

Number of pigs

non-automated

automated

500

1.2 man-hr/pig

0.7 man-hr/pig

1000

1.0 man-hr/pig

0.5 man-hr/pig

BUILDING
ARRANGEMENTS

When planning your hog operation, plan it as a system,
keeping in mind possible future expansions. Flow
patterns for each of the major products — feed, pigs
and manure must be considered. Handle each with a
minimum of labor and expense. Keep in mind that the
building must provide an optimum environment for both
swine and operator.

The first consideration when planning the building
system is to determine the intended production volume
and the type of operation. Building layout and size are
dependent upon number and type of swine housed. The
size of the sow herd and the interval between farrowing
will greatly influence barn size.

When the system is planned, it is intended to be a
specific size. A smaller number of animals can be kept
until the operator gains the management experience
needed to run the barn at its design capacity. An
example of this is to initially use an 8 week farrowing
cycle and as experience is gained reduce it to a 6 week
cycle. This in effect increases the barn's capacity.

Equipment considered should be durable and simple in
design. Availability of repairs must also be considered.
Many systems will require considerable maintenance
and repair in a short time. Use reliable, pig-proof
equipment to minimize maintenance requirements.
When design is kept simple, fewer operational problems
seem to occur. This is especially true for ventilation,
heating, and waste handling. Buildings can be oriented
in many different fashions. For smaller operations an in-
line system may be used. See Figure 1.

T-shaped and L-shaped barns lend themselves to
convenient traffic patterns. See Figure 2.

Another alternative is the H-shaped barn. See Figure 3.

A very large swine enterprise may occupy several
individual buildings. These buildings are spaced so that
adequate operating space is left between them. Disease
and fire control are also considered. See Figure 4.

Every swine barn should have an office for record
keeping and a workbench area for light repair work and
storage of hand tools. Washroom facilities are
commonly provided. If hired labor is employed, a locker
room, shower room and coffee room should also be
provided. Space should be left outside the building for
employee parking, manure removal, feed delivery and
pig loading. All doors to the barn should be locked to
keep out unwanted guests.

11400

growing/finishing
area

Notes:

CPS Plan 3428 or Q3429

hot water floor and space heat

Figure 1 - In line hog barn for 50 sows
farrow-to-finish

42600

11100

2400

18000

farrowing area

dry sow area

o
o

CT>

weaning area

growing/finishing area

Notes:

• CPS Plan 3312 or 3333 - farrowing

• CPS Plan M3449 - weaning

• CPS Plan 3428 or Q3429 - finishing

• CPS Plan 3236 or 3241 - dry sow

• hot water floor and space heat

Figure 2 - T-shaped barn with farrowing dry sow, weaner and finishing areas for 60-70 sows

growing/
■finishing area

dry sow area
utility area

10800

weaner area

farrowing area.

12600

Notes:

• CPS Plan 3312 or 3333 - farrowing

• CPS Plan M3449 - weaning

• CPS Plan 3428 or Q3429 - finishing

• CPS Plan 3236 or 3241 - dry sow

• hot water floor and space heat

4500

10200

4500

1290

Figure 3 - H-shaped barn for 80-100 sows includes dry sow, farrowing, weaner, utility and finishing areas

30200

2200

growing/finishing area

8400

weaner
area

15800

iiiiiiiiiiiiiiniiniii

farrowing area

23400

lllllllllllllll
llllllllllll

dry sow area

Figure 4 - Farrow-to-finish system, 4 room group farrowing 100 sow herd

HOG BARN

CONSTRUCTION

MATERIALS

A hog barn is composed of many materials. A list of the
major ones might include concrete, wood, metal and
insulation. Each of these materials will be discussed in
the following sections.

CONCRETE

Concrete is a mixture of sand and aggregate held
together by a hardened paste of cement and water.
Concrete is used for footings, foundations, pits, floors
and sometimes pen partitions.

Hogs, manure acids, and high pressure cleaning are
very hard on concrete. High quality concrete is essential
for satisfactory long term performance. A high strength
normal concrete is best for most situations. For floors
and manure pits, specify 25 MPa strength minimum, 30
MPa is even better, for high durability. A lower quality
20 MPa concrete is satisfactory for most other areas. All
concrete should be air-entrained for maximum
durability and freeze-thaw resistance.

Since manure is acid in nature, there is no particular
advantage to a sulfate-resistant type of cement, and it is
more expensive. Rather, use high quality normal
concrete, as noted previously. Do use sulphate resistant
concrete, however, for situations where concrete is in
contact with alkali soil, such as for pits and tanks.

Floors are normally 100 mm (4 in.) thick, placed as a
slab over a well-compacted base. Slope the floor for
proper drainage, usually at a slope of 1:25 (4%) unless
otherwise specified on the plans. The floor is finished to
provide a smooth, non-slip surface.

High quality reinforced concrete is required for pits and
manure tanks. The size and placement of reinforcing
rods provides most of the structural strength, so careful
attention to these details is important. Exact design
requirements depend on soil conditions, wall thickness,
length and height of the concrete wall in question.

Concrete divider walls can also be installed in long
manure pits to provide added support against collapse
(Figure 5). Dividers can also assist in pit cleaning or
manure handling depending on the details of the waste
system and barn design.

Quality concrete requires proper placement, finishing
and curing. It is desirable to use a concrete vibrator to
consolidate concrete in walls and around reinforcing

Figure 5 - Concrete divider walls in gutter

steel. Maximum strength, water tightness and quality
are produced when concrete is vibrated into place.
After the concrete has been placed and finished, it
should be moist-cured for at least three days and
preferably longer.

Refer to the bulletin "Concrete on the Farm" (Agdex
715-2) for more detailed information on concrete
design, placement, finishing and curing.

Another form of concrete is concrete blocks. Concrete
blocks can be used for pen dividers or fire walls.
Concrete blocks should not be used for pits or manure
storage structures because of difficulties in keeping the
structures water tight. Concrete blocks should not
normally be used for the building since they have poor
insulating value, however, new masonry systems which
have a layer of foam insulation at the core are available.

WOOD

Wood is a common building material and is typically
seen in two forms in hog barns; dimension lumber and
plywood. Dimension lumber is used for framing the
building. Typically 38 x 140 mm (2 x 6) members are
placed 600 mm (24 in.) on centre for wall framing.
Pressure treated wood should be specified where decay
is more likely to occur, such as the bottom sill on stud
walls. Wooden trusses are usually used for the roof
system.

Plywood can be used for both interior and exterior
sheathing. Use only exterior grade plywood for hog
barn construction. Exterior grade plywood is made with
a water-proof glue which can stand up to barn
conditions. Typical panel thicknesses are 9.5 mm
(3/8 in.) for interior and exterior wall sheathing and
12.5 mm (1/2 in.) for roof decks.

METAL

Various metals are used in hog barns. Slieet metal,
either galvanized or enamelled, can be used for roofing
and sheathing. It should be fastened to the framing
material by metal screws. Aluminum sheet can also be
used for sheathing, though special fasteners are needed
to prevent galvanic corrosion.

Penning materials are usually mild steel which is
painted or galvanized to prevent corrosion.

Several types of metal flooring material are also
available.

Sheet metal (galvanized) is also used to protect wood
sheathing from the destructive activities of the pigs.

INSULATION

Swine barns are insulated to limit summer heat gain and
to prevent condensation on interior surfaces during
winter months. Major insulation types used include
glass fibre batts, loose fill and rigid materials.

Insulation efficiency is measured by the RSI factor,
which is a measure of the material's resistance to heat
flow. The RSI factor has the units of m^CVW.

Flexible materials (mineral wool, glass fibre or rock
wool) are available as batts or blankets in standard
widths and lengths. Batt-type or blanket insulation is
only used where at least one face is in full, continuous
contact with cladding. Insulation must fit snugly along
the full width and length of the framing so that a
reasonably uniform insulating value results. Flexible
insulation is not suitable for use where it would be
exposed to the weather or come in contact with water.

Loose fill insulation (blown cellulose, blown glass fibre,
vermiculite) is used only on horizontal surfaces. Ceiling
and roof construction should be designed to prevent
loose fill insulation from spilling into the soffits,
blocking ventilation. Cardboard insulation stops are
available to prevent this from occurring. Figure 6 shows
the installation of an insulation stop.

Rigid insulation materials (extruded polystyrene) are
used to insulate foundations and to form air inlet
baffles. All rigid insulation materials used in a hog barn
must be water resistant. Rigid insulation can be
attached to concrete with ramset fasteners, or it can be
bonded with concrete grout or with adhesives. An
adhesive that does not deteriorate or attack the
insulation must be used. Exposed portions of the
foundation insulation should be protected with
asbestos-cement board, or stucco on wire lath. This
protects against mechanical damage to the insulation
material. Figure 7 shows rigid foundation insulation
covered with stucco wire to hold a concrete parging.

Walls and ceiling in the hog barn should be insulated to
RSI 3.5 (R20). Foundations should be insulated to RSI

Figure 6 - Cardboard insulation stop

\ 1

\ - -
\

Figure 7 - Rigid foundation insulation ready for
stucco finisiiing

Figure 8 - Asbestos-cement board waii lining

1.4 (R8). Foundation insulation inhibits frost
penetration, preventing either thermal stress of the
structure or frost heave of the floor and foundations.

ASBESTOS-CEMENT BOARD

Asbestos-cement board is a product made of Portland
cement and asbestos fibres. It is fire resistant, strong,
water resistant, permanent and impervious to rot, mold,
fungi, insects and swine. It is used to protect interior
sheathing any place that the hogs may contact it. It is
also used as a fire resistant lining for the furnace room.
Figure 8 shows asbestos-cement board used as a wall
panelling on the lower portion of the wall.

GYPSUM BOARD

Gypsum board may be used as a fire resistant material
to line the furnace room. It should never be used where
it will be exposed to damp conditions. It is not durable
enough for most other applications in barn
construction.

PLASTIC

Plastics are used for a variety of purposes in the hog
barn. One very important use is the vapor barrier. It
should be a 0.15 mm (6 mil) continuous plastic sheet
placed on the warm side of the wall and ceiling.

Other uses for plastic materials include water lines and
flooring systems in weaner decks, farrowing crates or
floor slats.

PAINTS AND OTHER COATINGS

Paints are made of two constituents; a finely ground solid
known as the pigment, and the liquid portion called the
vehicle or medium. Use barn paint or a good quality, high
gloss, exterior paint. Do not use a lead base paint.
Gases present in a hog barn will react with it to produce
a very dark surface. The pigs will also eat the paint
which will give them lead poisoning.

Fibreglass resin has been successfully used to coat
wooden creep panels. It provides a smooth, durable,
easy to clean surface.

ARENA BOARD

3mm (1 /8") or 6mm(1 /4") plastic panels used as a
protective covering for barn walls in contact with pigs. It
has the disadvantage of a high coefficient of expansion
and therefore should be applied to the building at near
room temperature.

FLOORING MATERIALS

Many types of flooring materials are available to the hog
producer. Using perforated floors in swine housing is
standard practice. Some materials have been developed
for this purpose; some have been developed for other
purposes, but are suitable for flooring material for
swine.

Before looking at specific materials it may be of value to
state the performance specifications of floors for pigs.
They are:

1. Floors should not cause injury to livestock. They
should provide a nonslip, nonabrasive surface with
no sharp or protruding edges.

2. Floors should not harbor disease-causing parasites
or bacteria. Surface should be impervious and readily
cleanable.

3. Floors should not cause stress or discomfort which
might manifest itself in depressed growth, poor feed
conversion or abnormal behavior.

4. Floor materials should not deteriorate or become
deformed during their planned life, nor should they
require maintenance during this time.

5. Perforated floors should not retain manure or urine,
which would require scraping.

6. Floors should meet the above requirements at a
reasonably low cost.

For purposes of this discussion, flooring materials will
be classified as follows:

1. Reinforced concrete slats.

2. Steel meshes.

3. Plastic products, including plastic coated metals, and

4. Other slats, such as fibreglass, stainless steel, and
cast iron products.

SLAT SPAN

SOWS
225 kg wt

FEEDER HOGS
100 kg wt

DIMENSION (mm)
D W X

BAR SIZE
A B

Up to 1500 mm
(5 ft)

up to 1800 mm
(6 ft)

100

125

10M

1600-2000 mm
(5-6 ft)

2000-2400 mm
(6-8 ft)

100

125

15M

10M

2000-2500 mm
(6-8 ft)

2500-3200 mm
8-10 ft)

140

125

15M

10M

Figure 9 - Reinforced concrete slats

REINFORCED CONCRETE

Reinforced concrete slats are available as precast
Individual slats, (various lengths), precast floor panels,
or they may be cast in place.

Cast in place reinforced concrete slats should be made
of 30 MPa (4500 psi) concrete with an 18 mm (0.75 in.)
maximum aggregate size. Reinforcing steel is needed to
provide adequate structural strength. If the slats are to
be moved after casting two rebars are needed. See
Figure 9.

The upper bar is to prevent breakage when the slat is
moved. The lower bar is to provide sufficient strength to
hold the animal's weight. A slight crown, and pencil
rounded edges should be formed on the slat when it
is cast.

the addition of supports, as recommended by the
manufacturer.

Steel meshes have good self-cleaning properties
because of the high void-to-solid ratio. Some of the
meshes are available in galvanized form. This may give
some initial protection against corrosion. Some
galvanizing processes leave drips on the surface of the
material; these projections are sharp and may cause
injury.

PLASTIC PRODUCTS

Plastic materials are generally durable and not affected
by urine or feces. Animals may find difficulty in finding
footing when the material becomes wet. Table 3 lists
some of the common plastic products.

STEEL MESHES

Details of common steel meshes used in pig housing
are given in Table 2. Steel mesh products may require

TABLE 2 — STEEL MESH HOG FLOORING PRODUCTS

Material Type

Void (%)

Application & Comments

Flattened expanded metal

— support @ 300 mm OC; not suitable for farrowing
pens with piglets less than 14 days old; limited life
span unless well supported; keeps clean; suitable for
flat decks.

Welded wire

5.3 mm wire @ 12.5 mm OC
5.3 mm wire @ 15 mm OC
5.3 mm wire @ 18 mm OC

60-68

— support @ 300 mm OC; suitable for farrowing pens;
some sows have difficulty in gaining a foothold; can
be used for weaner decks.

Woven wire

— support @ 300 mm OC; suitable for farrowing pens;
low incidence of piglet foot and leg injury at birth.

Steel rods

10 mm diameter (with
10 mm gap)

— self supporting to 1200 mm; suitable for farrowing
crates; low incidence of piglet foot and leg injury.

Prepunched metal planks

— self supporting to 1200 mm; indented holes may
reduce piglet foot and leg injury; sows tend to have
difficulty in gaining secure foothold; suitable for
flat decks.

TABLE 3 — PLASTIC HOG FLOORING PRODUCTS

Flooring Material

Plastic coated unflattened
expanded metal

Pre-punched extruded
plastic

Plastic coated metal planks

Voids (%) Comments & Application

— support at 300 mm centres; is available in two sizes,
one for farrowing crates and a smaller size for
weaner decks.

— support at 600 mm centres, sows may have difficulty
in gaining footholds; low incidence of piglet injury;
suitable for weaner decks.

self supporting to 1200 mm; suitable for flat decks.

OTHER MATERIALS

Included in this classification are homemade metal
slats, fibreglass slats, stainless steel slats, and cast iron
slats. Table 4 lists some other materials.

The sample of floor types listed is not exhaustive, but it
does represent most of the types presently in use.
Examples of different floor types are shown in Figures
10 to 15. Because the requirements of pigs vary with
growth, no one floor is likely to be suitable for all
classes of stock. In general, concrete slats are the most
suitable for dry sow housing and in growing finishing

accommodation for pigs larger than 20-25 kg (45-55 lb)
live weight.

Provided meshes are properly supported using them in
farrowing crates and weaner decks is satisfactory.
Using expanded metal causes foot and leg problems in
piglets from birth to 14 days of age.

It is difficult to account for all of the pigs' requirements
when comparing floors. The incidence of injury and
disease may be as much due to stocking density and
biological factors as to the structural properties of the
floor.

TABLE 4 — OTHER HOG FLOORING MATERIALS

Flooring Material

Comments and Applications

Homemade Metal Slats

— 6 mm steel straps placed 9 mm apart have worked
well in farrowing crates and dry sow barns.

Stainless Steel

— slotted flooring, 300 mm wide, self supporting to
300 mm, used in farrowing crates and weaner decks.

Fibreglass T Slats

— 38 mm slats spaced 9 mm apart are used for weaner
areas; can also be used in farrowing crates and
finishing barns.

Cast Iron

— self supporting to 1200 mm, suitable for all classes of
swine.

Figure 12 - Plastic floor panels under a weaner pen

Figure 13(b) - Fibregiass T slats (bottom view)

Figure 11 - Plastic coated perforated metal planks

Figure 13(a) - Fibregiass T slats (end view)

Figure 14 - Homemade slats made of flat iron

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The electrical system is the energy source for operating
the barn. It provides the energy to provide light, operate
ventilating systems, heating systems, feed conveyors
and do other tasks.

Electrical energy is delivered to the barn as 240 volt - 60
cycle energy. A service entrance brings the electricity
Into the barn. Place the service entrance in a dry
location, such as the furnace room. Figure 16 shows a
service entrance in a large modern hog barn. Branch
circuits then distribute electrical energy within the barn.
Provide a separate circuit for each ventilation fan (in
event of a short in the circuit then only one fan is
affected).

Swine barns should be wired for damp conditions using
NMW wire and bakelite or plastic boxes, all surface
mounted and preferably in plastic conduit.

Auxiliary or standby power is a wise investment. It may
be an automatic unit sized to power the whole barn in
case of a power outage, or a manually operated unit
that powers only essential ventilation, lighting and
heating equipment. A double-pole double-throw switch
is used to connect the auxiliary plant to the barn's
electrical system. Figure 17 shows an automatically
controlled, engine-driven standby system.

All electrically operated equipment must be CSA
approved. When purchasing electrically operated
equipment for your barn, check the label to be sure it is
CSA approved.

All wiring in the barn must meet the requirements of CSA
C22.1 - 1982 - Canadian Electrical Code Part 1, as well
as provincial supplements. A wiring permit, available
from your local electrical inspector, is required for the
installation of the electrical system. The owner may
obtain a permit to do his own wiring of systems up to
100A service; larger sizes require the permit be taken
out by an electrical inspector.

Figure 16 - Main electrical service entrance

Figure 17 - Engine-driven, automatic, electrical
standby piant

LIGHTING SYSTEMS

Provided glare is controlled, the better the light level,
the better we see. The problem is to select light
levels adequate to perform particular tasks with ease
and comfort.

General guidelines for the lighting of hog barns are:

1. Paint the walls and ceiling with a light colored
reflective coating.

2. Provide illumination levels as shown in Table 5.

3. Provide light where it is needed.

4. Use diffusing sources to reduce glare.

5. Maintain the system, clean fixtures frequently,
replace burned out and old lamps.

Luminaires (lighting fixtures which hold one or more
lamps) in the hog barn should be resistant to damp,
corrosion and mechanical damage. In the barn where
surfaces are washed down with a high pressure hose,
luminaires should be water proof. Sealed, or totally
gasketed, luminaires are available for both fluorescent
and incandescent lamps. See Figure 18.

Recent research has shown that adding light to a
confinement gestation barn will promote estrus in gilts.
A light period of 14-18 hours per day at a level of 100-
200 lux (10 to 20 foot candles) is needed. This lighting
regime can also increase the number of piglets farrowed
per litter.

A good general rule of thumb is to provide one
luminaire (fluorescent luminaire with two 1200 mm (4 ft)
lamps, or equivalent) for every two pens.

TABLE 5 — MINIMUM LIGHT LEVELS FOR HOG BARNS

Area Minimum Illumination

Office

750 lux

Provide 760 lux for reading tasks at the desk.

Furnace Room

100 lux

Supplementary light needed for equipment repair.

Washroom

325 lux

Farrowing Barn

220 lux

Localized lighting needed for some tasks.

Grower-Finisher Barn

220 lux

Gestation Barn

100-200 lux

On time clocks to provide a daily light period of
14-18 hours.

Outdoor Areas

10 lux

Figure 18 - Totally gasketed incandescent and
fluorescent luminaires.

VENTILATION SYSTEMS

Ventilation and heating systems in a swine barn provide
a suitable environment for the pigs. Ventilation removes
moisture, heat, and gases and provides fresh air for the
pigs. In winter, ventilation removes excess moisture
produced by the animals. In the summer, ventilation
removes excess body heat. Both the ventilation and
heating systems must be designed together for an
individual building based on animal numbers and
insulation values.

The essentials of a ventilation system are:

1. Insulation RSI 3.5 (R20) minimum in walls and
ceiling; RSI1 .4 (R8) foundation

2. Vapor barrier (to protect insulation and structure
from moisture vapor)

3. Inlets (to direct and distribute incoming air)

4. Fans and controls (to remove air and control volume
removal)

5. Management

Ventilation systems can be divided into three groups:

1. Exhaust systems function because of a negative
static pressure owing to the use of exhaust fans. The
exhaust fans create a slight vacuum inside the
building.

2. Pressure systems, in which fans force air into a
building through an inlet to create a positive static
pressure. The inlet fans pressurize the inside of the
building slightly.

3. Natural ventilation systems function because of the
natural buoyancy of warm air and the effect of wind
pressure.

Stud Wall Pole Frame

Figure 19 - Side air inlet, CPS Plan 9714

Figure 20 - Centre air inlet, CPS Plan 9713

adjustable polystyrene
baffle

EXHAUST VENTILATION SYSTEM

Normally, exhaust ventilation systems operate at 1 to 2
mm (0.04 to 0.10 in.) of static pressure across the inlet
to produce an inlet velocity of 5 m/s (1000 ft/min). This
pressure causes air to rush into the building through the
inlets which control incoming air. In most building
layouts exhaust systems are most convenient to install
and operate. Inlets may be located along the side of the
building (side air inlets) or along the centre of the
building (centre air inlets). Figure 19 and 20 show these
air inlets.

Inlet locations are chosen so that cold incoming air is
directed over the manure gutter. This encourages the
pigs to manure over the gutter. As the cold incoming air
moves into the barn it picks up the heat and loses
velocity. This reduces drafts directly on pigs. To achieve
correct ventilation patterns, side air inlets are used in
narrow buildings of less than 10 m, (33 ft) or in
buildings that have a centre manure gutter, and centre
air inlets are used in buildings wider than 10 m (33 ft),
or in buildings with manure gutters along the outside
walls.

To achieve correct ventilation patterns the ceiling of the
barn must be free of obstructions to prevent undesirable
currents. If metal sheathing is used, orient the ribs
parallel to the airflow.

The inlet should be located at the ceiling, as opposed to
in the wall, because the air current will stick to the
ceiling for a greater distance and create a more
desirable air flow pattern.

Inlets need to be adjusted seasonally and daily. The
objective is to maintain a minimum inlet velocity of 4-5
m/s (800-1000 ft/min). Speeds below this do not give
the incoming air enough energy to create desirable air
flow patterns. Suitable air flow patterns can be achieved
by operating the system with 2 to 3 mm (0.08 to 0.10 in.)

static pressure. A simple manometer can be constructed
to indicate the pressure. Alternatively,
automatic controls can be purchased that sense static
pressure and adjust the inlets.

Fans are air pumps that pump air out of the building to
create a static pressure. Propeller fans are commonly
used in agricultural buildings. Normally fans are chosen
for their capacity at 3.2 mm (0.125 in.) of static pressure.
About one-half of this pressure drop is across the inlets,
the rest is across the fan, especially if it has automatic
louvers. Unmaintained (dirty) fans can have their
capacity reduced by at least 30% by dust build up.

Contrary to popular belief, fans do not create air
currents. Rather, it is the air inlet system that
determines air flow patterns in a building. Until air
coming from the inlet gets close to the fan, there is no
noticeable air movement towards the fan. See Figure 22.
22.

insulated duct

^ ^air inlet ^exhaust fan «

ceiling'

— ~ plastic hinge

styrofoam^ counter weight-

Figure 21 - Automatic Air Inlet Baffle

Inside this sphere the air moves towards the fan and
increases in velocity as it approaches the fan.

Propeller fans are most common for ventilation in
agricultural buildings. They are relatively inexpensive
and exhibit high efficiency at low static pressures.
Smaller fans may be direct driven. Larger fans are belt
driven. Fans are available from many manufacturers as
single speed, variable speed and belt driven models.

Fans function according to the basic fan laws as
follows:

• Fan capacity is proportional to speed; the faster a fan
is rotated, the more air it moves.

• Static pressure is proportional to the square of
speed.

• Power required is proportional to the cube of speed.
If a fan's speed is doubled, its power requirements
increase 8 times.

Fans should have a shroud, or ring that fits closely
around the blade. The shroud is, in effect, a bell shaped
nozzle that improves a fan's efficiency as compared to a
plain circular opening. Fans with no ring, or shroud, are
suitable only for free air circulation. Shutters and hoods
are used to reduce backdrafts and protect fans from the
effects of winds.

Normally fans are located in the top 1/3 of the wall.
They may be banked, with banks spaced no greater
than twice the building width, or they may be spaced
evenly along the length of the barn. Fans may be on one
side (narrow barns), or both sides (wide barns), of the
building.

Controls for fans should be located near the centre of
the building at eye level; sensors should be located at
pig level. For single and two-speed fans, thermostats
are used, and variable speed fans are controlled by a
variable speed controller. This controller can run a
motor load of up to 0.75 kW. Each fan is then
individually switched.

Controls must be kept free of dust and located in
moving air. A mercury thermometer should be placed
near the controls to sense barn temperature. Always
verify the control setting with a thermometer.
Thermostats are seldom accurate when they arrive from
the factory and should be calibrated after they are
installed. A maximum-minimum thermometer placed at
various locations around the barn is useful to
calibrate controls.

Fans are chosen according to the air movement
required for the barn. Table 6 gives capacities of some
common agricultural fans. Table 7 gives ventilation
requirements for pigs.

A wide choice of agricultural fans is available. These
include single speed, two speed, multiple speed, and
variable speed fans. The fan housing may be
constructed of a variety of materials including
fibreglass, stainless steel, galvanized metal and painted
metal. Single speed fans are common. A single speed
motor is used and its cost is relatively low. A
combination of fans and controls is used to obtain the
desired range of ventilation rates.

Two-speed fans use two-speed motors for an additional
step in the range of ventilation rates. Most two-speed
fans have a capacity at low speeds of 1/2 to 2/3 of their
high speed capacity. Two-speed fans are used when It is
not possible to obtain the desired ventilation rates using
single speed fans.

Variable speed fans use variable speed motors. A solid
state controller varies the motor speed from about 300
rpm to its maximum rated speed.

Variable speed fans will have a maximum rating near
that of a single speed fan of the same size. The
minimum capacity of variable speed fans is
approximately 20% of their maximum capacity. Variable
speed fans are used for ventilating livestock buildings
with a small or variable amount of animal heat available.

Fans may also be direct drive or belt driven. Large fans,
over 600 mm (24 in.) are usually belt driven at a slow

TABLE 6 - TYPICAL CAPACITIES OF COMMON AGRICULTURAL FANS

Capacity

Blade Diameter

Low Speed

High or

Single

L/S

UrM

1 Irs
L/S

UrM

200 mm (8")

150

(350)

250 mm (10")

250

(500)

rioo mm M?"^

\J\J\J 1 1 1 1 1 1 \ * ^ )

280

(600)

600

(1250)

350 mm (14")

380

(800)

800

(1750)

400 mm (16")

730

(1500)

1200

(2500)

450 mm (18")

850

(1800)

1600

(3300)

500 mm (20")

1180

(2500)

2000

(4300)

600 mm (24")

1420

(3000)

2400

(5000)

900 mm (36")

2360

(5000)

4800

(10000)

*Please note that conversions are soft conversions.

TABLE 7 — VENTILATION RATES FOR SWINE BARNS*

Animal Type

Housing Type

Continuous
Vent. Rate

Moisture
Control Vent.
Rate

Temperature
Control Vent.
Rate

Maximum
Vent. Rate

dry sow

year round housing in
windowless barn

5 L/S
10 cfnn

5 L/S
10 cfm

65 L/s
130 cfm

75 L/s/sow
150 cfm

sow & litter

farrowing barn-year
round insulated housing

7 L/S
15 cfm

125 L/s
250 cfm

140 L/s/sow
280 cfm

weanlings
(7 to 25 kg)

insulated weaner barn

1 L/S

2 cfm

1 L/S

2 cfm

15 L/s
30 cfm

15 L/s/pig
30 cfm

growers
(25-60 kg)

insulated grower barn

1 L/S

2 cfm

1 L/S

2 cfm

20 L/s
40 cfm

28 L/s/g rower
45 cfm

high density
(0.7m7animal or less)

2 L/S
4 cfm

30 L/s
60 cfm

30-40 L/s/pig
60-80 cfm

finishers
(60 - 100 kg)

lower density
(0.7mVanimal or more)

2 L/S
4 cfm

30 L/s
60 cfm

30-40 L/s/pig
60-80 cfm

growing

high density (0.7
mVanimal or less)

2 L/S
4 cfm

25 L/s
50 cfm

30 L/s/pig
60 cfm

finishing
(55 kg avg)

lower density
0.7mVanimal or more

2 L/S
4 cfm

20 L/s
40 cfm

25-30 L/s/pig
50-60 cfm

*Please note that conversions are soft conversions.

speed to reduce fan noise. The following are guidelines
for selection and operation of fans:

1. Fan motors should be totally enclosed and have
thermal overload protection.

2. Owing to capacity variations, select a fan on the
basis of its capacity in litres per second (cubic feet
per minute).

3. Capacity rating should be based on 3 mm (1/8 in.) of
static pressure.

4. Install adequate wiring.

5. Fans should be hooded and equipped with gravity
shutters to prevent backdrafts when the fans are
stopped. Gravity shutters, or louvers, should not be
used on continuously operating fans.

6. Fans, fan motors, and thermostats need to be
regularly serviced. Dust buildup on fan blades and
louvers can reduce fan discharge by up to 30%. This
has the effect of making an otherwise adequate
ventilation system inadequate because of reduced air
flow. Dust also reduces motor life by overheating and
fan blade imbalance.

PRESSURIZED VENTILATION SYSTEM

Pressurized ventilation systems are sometimes used to
ventilate hog barns. They function by forcing fresh air
into the barn. Air is distributed within the barn by a
duct. Stale air exits through louvers or exhaust ports.
Most systems also have provision for blending fresh and
recirculated air for better temperature control.

A tightly sealed vapor barrier is necessary to prevent
warm moist air from entering the wall cavity and
forming frost, condensation, or ice. This moisture
reduces the insulation value and may cause
deterioration of the structural members of the building.
During winter operation, ice may form around any
opening where warm moist air leaves the barn. This can
occur around doors creating a problem.

Air quantities for pressure ventilation systems may be
calculated in the same manner as for exhaust systems.

Polyethylene distribution ducts may be used with either
a negative or positive pressure ventilation system. They
are normally sized to give a velocity of 4 to 6 m/s in the
duct. Holes are spaced at intervals along the tube. The
area of the holes should be 1.5 times the cross-sectional
area of the tube. When the holes are not sized and
spaced properly the plastic duct will vibrate. If these
vibrations are allowed to continue the duct will tear.
Polyethylene tubes tend to collect dust and need
frequent maintenance. Figure 23 shows polyethylene
distribution ducts used to distribute air in a pressure
ventilated hog barn.

NATURAL VENTILATION

It is a well known fact that hot air rises. Natural
ventilation systems make use of this principle and the
effects of airflow caused by wind.

Air in the hog barn is heated by the animal's body heat
and by supplementary heat added to maintain the barn

Figure 23 - Mixing Chamber System

Figure 24 - Naturally ventilated hog barn

temperature. This heated air rises. If there is an opening
at an upper level in the barn the warm, lighter air will
leave the building. Of course, an equal volume of cold
air must enter at a lower level.

Wind blowing against a building creates areas of high
and low pressure. Where there are openings in the
building these pressures create air flow into or out of
the building.

By harnessing these two effects, thermal buoyancy and
wind, air can be moved into and out of a building to
ventilate it.

Problems arise in controlling the inlets and outlets in a
naturally ventilated building. Typically a ridge opening
is used as an outlet and movable wall panels are used as
inlets. Changes in temperature or wind velocity
necessitate adjustments to the system to control air flow
rate. These adjustments can be made manually or by
automatic control systems. Figure 24 shows a naturally
ventilated hog feeder barn.

HEATING SYSTEMS
FOR HOG BARNS

Heat is required to maintain desired barn temperatures
during periods of cold weather. Heat is also required to
remove moisture from the interior of the building. This
heat comes from two sources — animal body heat and
supplemental heat. Radiant heat, usually generated by
electrical energy, is used to modify local micro-
environments such as creep areas. Radiant heat can be
supplied by 250 watt infrared bulbs in an approved
fixture, or the newer quartz tube radiant heaters.
Temperatures are adjusted by raising or lowering the
infrared heat source until the pigs are comfortable. A
heat lamp and holder are shown in Figure 25.

Hot water heating is used to supply heat to the
air space in the building and to heat concrete
floors.

A typical hot water heating system consists of:

1. Hot water boiler sized to barn requirements.

2. Circulating pump; sold as part of boiler package.

3. Expansion tank.

4. Distribution piping and headers.

5. Heat distribution system, normally 50 mm (2 in.)
black iron pipe for space heat, and plastic pipe for
floor heat.

6. Controls, valves, temperature and pressure gauges,
air bleed valves, pressure relief valve.

The boiler should be located in a separate, fire resistant
furnace room. The furnace room should be lined with a
fire resistant material, such as gypsum board and have a
separate outside entrance, equipped with a self-closing
door. Vents to the outside are needed to provide
combustion air for the furnace. All furnace installations
require a permit and must meet Department of Labour
standards. Figure 26 shows the layout of a typical hot
water space heating system.

Boilers are normally operated at 90° C for space heat.
Plastic pipe used for floor heat should not be exposed
to water temperatures above 55° C. Water temperature
to the floor heating system can be supplied by a
separate 55° C water source, or a thermostatically
controlled blending valve for the floor heating circuit.

supply line ^
to zone 2 "^"^

supply line ^
to zone 1

hose connection for filling system
l_ gate valve
\

air vent

solenoid valve
thermostatically operated
for zone 2

thermostat in zone 2

return line
from zone 2

draft hood and chimney

•pressure relief valve

return line
from zone 1 ^"T~

gate valve (for flow,
control in zone 2)

gate valve for (for flow
control in zone 1)

expansion tank

thermometer on
return line

circulating pump

thermostat in zone 1

solenoid valve
thermostatically
operated for zone 1

gate valve

temperature and pressure gages
on boiler

hot water boilers

^ drain cock

Figure 26 - Hot water space heating system serving two zones

Black iron pipe, 50 mm (2 in.) in diameter, is used to
distribute Ineat in the hog barn. It is located near the air
inlets as shown in Figure 27.

Fan forced unit heaters are also used. Rooms, or
locations where pipe can not be installed, can be heated
by unit heaters (Figure 28).

Figure 27 - BSack iron pipe radiator

FLOOR HEATING SYSTEMS

Floor heating systems are used to provide a warm
environment for the pigs without excessive heating of
the entire building. Floor heat is an excellent way to
provide extra heat in creep areas. It is a convenient
method of providing a warm, dry sleeping area in
grower-finisher pens.

Do not expect floor heat to provide all of the heat
needed in the building. Floor heat will not be sufficient
for the proper operation of the ventilation system.
Supplemental space heat will be required, especially in
farrowing and weaning areas.

Floor heating does have some disadvantages, however.
It increases the cost and difficulty of construction of a
swine barn and it requires additional management and
maintenance once the system is in place. Also, raised

Zone valves and thermostats can be used to control
temperatures in individual rooms in the barn.

Information in the following table can be used as a
rough guide to estimate the size of the heating unit for a
typical hog barn.

Figure 28 - Fan forced hot water unit heater

Btu/hr-ft
Btu/crate

Btu/deck
Btu/hr-ft
Btu/hr-ft

farrowing crates and flat decks do not lend themselves
to floor heat.

Two options are available to heat the floor slab: either
electric heat tape, placed in the concrete, or hot water
piping buried beneath the floor slab. Electric systems
are more flexible in that individual pens can be
individually temperature controlled. However, electricity
is a relatively expensive method of providing heat. Hot
water systems do not readily lend themselves to the
temperature control of individual pens.

Floor heat should be installed only under the pig's
resting area. It should not be placed under parts of the
pen that are normally wet, such as waterers and the
dunging area. Floor heat should never be placed under
a sow in a farrowing pen, as it may lead to udder
problems.

TABLE 8 — APPROXIMATE HEAT REQUIREMENTS FOR SWINE BARNS

Finishing Barn 800 watts/metre of building length 800

Farrowing Barn 2000 watts/crate 6000
Weaner Barns

raised decks 2300 watts/deck 7000

floor pens 1200 watts/metre of building length 1200

Dry Sow Barn 800 watts/metre of building length 800

TA Rl P Q

HEATED FLOOR AREA SIZE, FLOOR TEMPERATURE AND HEAT INPUT

Pig Size

Heated Floor Area

Watts/m2

Recommended Floor
Temperatures

Location of Heated Floor

Birth to
Weaning

0.5 to 1.4 mVlitter

120

35° C dropping to 24° C
by 3-4 weeks

1 creep of a side creep
farrowing crate or front creep of
a farrowing crate

Weaning
to 27 kg

0.1 to 0.15 mVpig

21°C to 24° C

27 to 57

0.2 to 0.24 mVpig

16°Cto 21°C

1250 mm at the front of a 1500 x
4800 mm pen

57 kg to
Market

0.3 to 0.33 mVpig

16°C

Too large a heated floor area wastes heat and too small
an area encourages pigs to pile up. Table 9 gives
guidelines for heated floor area and floor temperatures.

HOT WATER FLOOR HEAT

Equipment needed to install floor heat includes a hot
water heater or boiler (depending on the size of the
installation), expansion tank, a circulating pump, and
steel piping above the floor and plastic line beneath the
floor area to be heated. Alternatively a mixing valve or
converter can be used to supply hot water at the desired
temperature to the system. In addition, pressure and
temperature gauges, control valves and pressure relief
valves will be required. Polyethylene lines may be used
beneath the floor pad to be heated. Use only 760 kPa
CSA approved polyethylene water line or high density
polyethylene water line.

Hot water pipes are placed on a layer of sand on a
compacted gravel fill. The system is laid out, all
connections made, then it is pressure tested for leaks.
Next, a layer of sand is placed around the pipes and the
concrete poured.

As a general guide pipes are spaced 200 mm (8 in.) on
centre beneath creep areas, 250 mm (10 in.) o.c.

beneath weaner areas and 300 mm (12 in.) o.c. beneath
grower pens. Either 19 mm or 25 mm (3/4 in. or 1 in.)
pipe may be used. If the pipe loop is less than 60 m (200
ft), 19 mm (3/4 in.) pipe may be used. If a pipe loop is 60
m to 80 m (200 ft to 250 ft), 25 mm (1 in.) pipe is
suitable. A pipe loop should not be longer than 80 m
(250 ft). Plastic pipe connections should not be made in
the concrete. Water temperatures for a floor heating
system using 760 kPa (125 psi) pipe should not exceed
60° C. Temperatures higher than this will cause the pipe
to soften and weaken. High density pipe can withstand
temperatures to 90° C. In either case pressures in the
system should not exceed 140 kPa (20 psi). Table 10
gives floor temperatures for various pipe spacings and
water temperatures. Table 1 1 gives desired floor
temperatures for various classes of pigs.

Boiler or hot water tank output can be determined by the
following general rule - supply 50 to 100 watts/meter of
pipe (50 to 100 Btu/foot per hour). Water temperature
should be 60°C temperature drop from supply to return.
Circulation pump capacity should be 1.5 litres/min for
each 1000 watts of boiler capacity (1 gal/min per 10,000
Btu). The expansion tank should hold 10% of the volume
of water in the system.

Floor temperature can be sensed and used to control a

TABLE 10 — FLOOR TEMPERATURES ACHIEVED WITH VARIOUS PIPE SPACINGS AND
WATER TEMPERATURES (Note: pipe is 25 mm)

Floor Temperature Water Temperature Pipe Spacing

32° 0 55° C 185-200 mm

29° C 51° C 200-225 mm

28° C 38° 0 300-375 mm

26° C 46° C 225-250 mm

23° C 42° C 250-300 mm

TABLE 11 — DESIRABLE FLOOR TEMPERATURES

Weight or Age Desired Floor Temperature (° C)

Birth to Weaning 24-35
Weaning to 25 kg 21-24
25 kg to 60 kg 16-21
60 kg to IVlarket 10-20

solenoid, or zone control valve to control floor
temperature. This is done by placing a metal conduit
with a closed end and large radius bend in the concrete,
It is located 100 to 150 mm (4 to 6 in.) from any heating
pipe. A thermostat with capillary tube and sensing bulb
is used. The sensing bulb and capillary tube are placed
in the conduit which is then filled with a light oil. The
thermostat senses floor temperature and controls water
flow by turning the solenoid valve off or on. A typical

hot water floor heating system is shown in Figure 29.
Figures 30 and 31 show pipe layout for creep heating.

Normally 2 to 3 days are required to warm up the
concrete or allow it to cool down because of its heat
holding capacity. This has management implications. In
order to have the floor up to temperature it will be
necessary to start the system 2 to 3 days before the
heated floor is needed.

Figure 29 - Typical hot water floor heat system

hot water lines

Figure 30 - Pipe layout to provide heated floor in creep area of farrowing crate with side creeps
(Note: no heated floor under sows). Spacing is 150 mm in the creep area.

hot water line

200 mm

Figure 31 - Pipe layout to provide heated floor in front creep area of farrowing crate with front creep

ELECTRIC FLOOR HEAT

A polyvinyl chloride covered electric heat tape can be
used for floor heat. Alternatively, prefabricated electric
heat pads of various sizes can be used. Table 12 shows
cable spacing at various watt densities and watts per
metre of cable.

Your own heating pads can be fabricated with a
plywood jig that will fit a normal creep area or the front
of a pen. Place nails at the end of the jig to provide the
necessary watt density and lay the cable in the desired
pattern. Enough lead-in wire must be left to allow for
threading through a conduit to a switch. Slip the unit off
the jig and transfer to a sheet of cement-asbestos
board. Tape the wires to the cement-asbestos board and
place in the floor as outlined below:

• Place 150 mm (6 in.) of compacted gravel fill over the
entire floor area and cover with a 0.1 mm (4 mil)
vapor barrier.

• Place 50 mm (2 in.) of rigid foam insulation over the
areas to be heated.

• Place 65 mm (2.5 in.) of concrete over the insulation
and vapor barrier.

• Place the heating mat, conduit for lead-in wires, and
the conduit (with sealed end) for thermostatic
control.

• Place 40 mm (1.5 in.) of concrete over the cable and
conduit.

For effective temperature control a separate thermostat
should be used for every 3-5 crates and for every zone
in the weaner and feeder barns.

The cable should be turned on one day before the
heated floor area is needed. Figure 32 shows a typical
installation.

TABLE 12 — CABLE SPACING FOR HEATING FLOOR SLABS

WATTS/LINEAL METRE OF HEATING CABLE

WATT DENSITY _33 36 40 43 46 50

W/m2 SPACING BETWEEN RUNS OF CABLE (mm)

250 120 130 140 150 170 180

300 100 110 120 130 140 150

350 85 95 100 110 120 130

400 80 80 90 100 110 110

vapor barrier

Figure 32 - Typical electric heat pad installation

Before installing electrically heated floor pads check
that your service panel can handle the load. In addition,
remember that electricity is a relatively expensive form
of heat energy.

WATER SUPPLY

Water is the most essential nutrient for pig production.
Water consumption will vary with size of pig,
environmental factors, and the salt content of both feed
and water. Limiting water will affect the performance of
all types of pigs.

WATER QUALITY

Pigs will consume 2 to 2.5 L of water per kg of dry feed.
Under high temperature conditions pigs will consume
up to 4.5 litres of water per kg of dry feed. When
planning your hog barn, the water supply should
provide 20 litres of water per day per sow housed, 7
litres/day/feeder pig housed and 3 litres/day/weaner pig
housed. Additional water will be needed for washing
pens and equipment.

Pigs require clean potable water. Total solids content up
to 7000 mg/L is acceptable for growing pigs. Table 13
outlines water quality based on total dissolved solids.

TABLE 13— WATER QUALITY

20 pigs per waterer and a minimum of one waterer per
pen. In weaner pens use two waterers. This gives less
aggressive pigs a better chance to obtain water. Locate
the waterer in a corner area over the slatted floor
portion of the pen. In farrowing crates provide two
waterers — one that is easily accessible for the sow, and
one for the piglets. Locate the waterer for the piglets at
the rear of the farrowing crate.

Watering bowls have the advantage of providing an
obvious water source. Two types of bowls are available
— one has a nose activated paddle mechanism to
release the water. The other has a float valve
mechanism. Bowls need to be cleaned regularly so that
they provide fresh, clean water. A disadvantage of water
bowls is that the pigs tend to play with them and waste
large quantities of water.

Several types of nipples are available. They should be
mounted on a movable bracket and be easily adjusted.
The ideal height of the nipple is 50 mm (2 in.) above the
pig's back. Independent studies have shown that
nipples waste less water than do bowls.

The watering system can be used to medicate the pigs.
One advantage is that even a sick pig drinks. A manifold
system can be used to install the medicator.

TOTAL SOLIDS CONTENT OF WATER (mg/L)
TDS QUALITY
0-999 Excellent
1000-3999 Good
4000-6999 Satisfactory
7000 + Unsatisfactory

Some concern has been expressed when using water
high in TDS for lactating sows. With this in mind 5000
mg/L has been set as the upper limit for lactating sows.

Nitrates and sulphates are problem salts in some
waters. Nitrates in livestock water are often an
indication of bacterial contamination. Bacterial
contamination of the water and conversion of nitrate to
nitrite can cause problems with pigs. High levels of
sulphate will cause the pigs to have a mild diarrhea,
although performance is usually not affected. Young
pigs can not tolerate a high level of sulphate.

WATERING EQUIPMENT

Several types of pig waterers are available. Many factors
must be evaluated prior to purchasing waterers. First,
what is your water supply? Some drinker types operate
only with a low pressure, others operate from high
pressure. Drinkers operating with low pressure require a
header tank or pressure reducing valves. Is the water
supply free of debris? If not, a filter should be installed.

The two basic types of waterers are watering bowls and
nipples. Troughs may also be used. Allow a maximum of

SIZING THE HOG BARN

planning information.

Many philosophies exist in regard to the sizing of a hog
barn. Traditionally it has been based on the number of
sows in the buildings herd. Tables 14 and 15 give space
allocations for a variety of sow herd sizes, based on 4
and 5 week weaning respectively. Assumed in the tables
is a 1 week cleanup and filling time for the farrowing
facilities and an average of 8.5 pigs weaned per litter.
As management practices significantly effect barn sizing
these tables are presented to provide preliminary

Another approach is to base the barn size on farrowing
per week. This is an excellent approach to use on sizing
a multiple room facility. The number of rooms needed
equals the number of weeks to weaning plus one.
Farrowing crates per room is equal to desired farrowing
per week. Usually, in this style of barn individual weaner
rooms are used, one per farrowing room. These rooms
are sized based on the number of farrowing crates. A
typical sizing is one 1200 x 2400mm weaner deck per
two farrowing crates, however, this is slightly undersized
for superior production.

TABLE 14 - HOG BARN SIZING

8.5 pigs/litter

4 WEEK WEAN (4-5)

Sows

Crates

Sow Stalls

Gilt

Boar

Weaner

Grower

Feeder

Pens

1 o

'3 1
O 1

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TABLE 15

HOG BARN SIZING

8.5 pigs/litter

5 WEEK WEAN (5-6)

Sows

Crates

Sow stalls

Gilt

Boar

Weaner

Grower

Feeder

Pens

100

110

120

1 1

130

140

106

150

113

200

151

120

FARROWING HOUSING
AND EQUIPMENT

Newly born piglets are very vulnerable. Surveys have
shown that 20-35% of liveborn pigs die before reaching
market weight. Most of these deaths are caused by
chilling of the newborn piglet and by the sow crushing
the piglet. Many ways are available to crate or tether the
sow and to provide safe comfortable creep areas for the
piglets.

The major factors to be considered in planning
farrowing accommodations are as follows:

• Welfare of the sow and piglets including cleanliness.

• Ease of observation and supervision.

• Labor economy (front creeps to improve piglet
accessibility and slatted floors to achieve self
cleaning).

• Minimize capital investment.

Today's trend in farrowing facilities is to multiple rooms
and all in, all out production schedules. Sows are batch
farrowed, and after the piglets are weaned, the
farrowing room is depopulated and sanitized. It is then
allowed to stand idle for a few days before the next
group of sows is moved into the room.

SOW WASH

It makes no sense to clean farrowing pens then put dirty
sows into them. Sows should be washed before entering
farrowing facilities.

A simple sow wash is a small pen 1200 x 2400 (4 ft x 8
ft) with a floor drain and a warm water hose. The sow is
hosed and scrubbed until she is clean.

Alternatively, a farrowing crate can be used as the wash
stall. The lower horizontal rails on each side of the crate
can be perforated and connected to the water supply.
Again a floor drain is provided.

Another alternative is to wash the sows in groups. A pen
that allows 0.8 mVsow (8.5 ftVsow) of space is equipped
with nozzles and overhead nozzles to spray the sows
with warm water. The nozzles deliver 10-15 litres per
sow per hour at 30° C. The pen is located in an enclosed
corridor leading to the farrowing quarters.

FARROWING CRATES

Ideally a farrowing crate should:
Reduce piglet crushing by:

• controlling the movements of the sow within the pen.

• attracting piglets to a comfortable creep area.

• cater to the differing temperature requirements of
sow and piglets by providing a higher temperature in
the creep area.

Ensure adequate nursing and suclding by:

• ensuring that the bottom bars of the farrowing crate
are high enough and the crate wide enough to ensure
that these bars do not interfere with the piglets'
suckling.

• providing a comfoi'table floor surface to encourage
the sow to rotate her body at nursing to fully expose
all teats on the lower udder to her piglets.

The farrowing crate should control the movements of
the sow in such a way that she is forced to lie down on
her belly before rolling over to either side. Most
crushing of piglets occurs when sows flop on to either
side from the standing position, trapping unsuspecting
piglets.

Farrowing crates may have adjustable front and rear
gates. In partially slatted pens an adjustable front gate
helps move small sows and gilts back over the slotted
portions. Some crates have adjustable sides and bottom
bars. These are useful in adjusting the crate according
to sow size. Lowering the adjustable bottom bar can
prevent small sows being trapped underneath, while the
lower bar can be raised for large sows allowing
adequate access by the piglets to all the teats. Front
access to the crate is useful and desirable, however, a
rear access alley is essential. Access alleys should not
be less than 750 mm (30 in.) in width.

The floor surface for the farrowing crate should:

• Eliminate risk of injury to piglets and the udder.

• Be comfortable to the sow and provide her with a
good foothold.

• Be easy to clean.

• Be durable.

In some types of slatted flooring, hole size is too large
for the piglets' feet. The gap should not exceed 10 mm
(3/8 in.).

The creep area should provide a temperature of 28-
30° C. Front creeps are desirable, however, piglets must
be trained to use them. For the first 24 hours provide a
comfortable, attractive creep on each side of the sow,
then make them less attractive (i.e. remove light and
heat to front creep) and make the front creep more
attractive. Crates with only side creeps can be equipped
with a hover to provide a comfortable, warm
environment for the piglets.

Farrowing crates may be placed at floor level or raised
above it. Floor level crates usually have a double floor
slope. The front 450 mm (18 in.) slopes towards a front
drain at 5%, the rear 1650 mm (6 ft) slopes to a rear
gutter at 5%. A smooth non-slip concrete floor is used
beneath the crate. Hot water heat pipes are placed in

Figure 35 - One type of raised farrowing crate

the concrete floor beneath the creep areas. No heat is
placed beneath the sow. Figure 33 shows desired floor
slope. Figure 34 shows dimensions of a typical
farrowing crate. Figure 35 shows a raised farrowing
crate, while Figure 36 shows a conventional farrowing
crate.

Figure 36 - Conventional floor level farrowing crate

Desirable environmental temperatures in the farrowing
area are 21° C for the sow and 28-30° C for piglets
dropping to 21-25° C by weaning. The room should be
kept draft free.

Facilities that are using raised farrowing crates should
be operated at 26° C.

WEANER HOUSING
AND EQUIPMENT

Figure 37 - Weaeier pern

After the pigs are weaned they are moved into the
weaner area. Pigs are kept in the weaner area until they
reach 25 kg (55 lb) in size. Many different facilities are
used to produce weaner pigs, however, certain basic
principles apply to all of them.

By keeping group size small and providing an optimal
thermal environment, stress can be minimized. Pigs
should be kept in groups of 20 pigs or less (2 litters) to
minimize social stress. Temperatures to aim for are 27-
29° C for the first week to 10 days after weaning and
then dropping by 2-3° C per week to 21° C when the pigs
are 9 weeks old.

Weaner housing that is easy to clean and easy to keep
clean is essential. Presently the concept is to use
weaner rooms and all-in, all-out production. A batch of
pigs is weaned and a weaner room filled. This group of
pigs is then removed and the room cleaned and
disinfected prior to introducing the next group of pigs.
Another consideration is the rapid removal of manure
and urine. A totally perforated floor is useful in
achieving this.

A good quality feed and a supply of good water are
essential. Self-feeders can be used to provide feed.
Feeders should be adjustable to minimize feed wastage.
Nipple waterers provide fresh, clean water with a
minimum of spillage.

Several styles of weaner pens are available. Floor pens,
both partially slatted and non-slatted, raised decks and
cages are used.

FLOOR PENS

Traditionally, weaned pigs have been placed in large
groups (30-50) in floor pens 1200 x 3000 mm (4 ft x 10
ft) or 1200 X 3600 mm (4 ft x 12 ft) in size. Typically, a
self feeder is placed at the front of the pen and a slatted
floor area at the rear of the pen. The front portion of the
pen is heated using either a heat lamp and/or
underfloor heat. Weaner pigs can be successfully raised
in floor pens if attention is paid to cleanliness and
maintaining an even temperature. Figure 37 shows this
style of weaner pen.

WEANER DECKS

Weaner decks, flat decks, or cages are raised nursery
pens used to grow pigs from weaning to 25 kg (55 lb).
Pens range in size from 1.0 m^ to 3.2 m^ (10 ft^ to 32 ft^).
Pigs are allowed 0.2 mVpig (2 ftVpig) in flat decks.
Metal, plastic, and fibreglass flooring materials, all with
a high percentage of open space, are available for flat
decks.

Several types of pig cage are used. Multi-level cages
can be used. These cages are 1000 mm x 1200 mm x
450 mm (3 ft x 4 ft x 18 in.) and are stacked directly on
top of each other. A fibreglass pan and manure scraper
are placed between decks. Two or three levels of cages
may be used depending on ceiling height.

Flat decks usually are 1.6 m^ or 3.2 m^ (16 ft^ or 32 ft^) in
size. They are raised about 600 mm (2 ft) above alley
level and have a totally perforated floor. Figure 38
shows multilevel pig cages while Figure 39 shows a
typical flat deck.

A third type of pig cage is one at the same level as the
feeding alley. Perforated floors are used, except for 300-
600 mm (1-2 ft) at the front of the pen. This portion of
the floor is heated to encourage the pigs to sleep here.

Weaner decks make better use of space in a hog barn.
There can be up to 150% better utilization of space
owing to multilevel pens and more pigs per unit of area.
This can reduce investment in buildings and equipment.
Weaner decks can be used very effectively when
remodelling existing barns, where a limited space can
be used to hold a large number of weaners.

Usually pigs in weaner decks are warmer and dryer than
pigs in floor pens, however greater care must be taken
with design and management of the heating and
ventilation system to prevent drafts. Pigs in weaner
decks grow more uniformly and there is less of a
problem with runts. Pigs in weaner decks have up to
30% better weight gains than pigs in floor pens.
Mortality is reduced by raising pigs in weaner decks.
Typical mortality in decks may be 2% as compared to 4-
8% in floor pens. Scour problems are less frequent in
weaner decks than on floor pens.

The use of weaner decks results in healthier pigs, better
use of space and less work than raising pigs in flat
decks.

Figure 38 - Multi level pig cages for weaner pigs

There are some disadvantages to weaner decks. Lifting
25 kg (55 lb) pigs out of second and third level decks
can be hard work. Costs of weaner decks tend to be
higher than conventional pens.

Pigs in flat decks are usually on self-feeders. Feed
spillage out of the feeder and subsequent wastage can
be a problem. The choice of feeder can play an
important role in feed wastage. The feed trough should
have a 100 mm (4 in.) lip and an adjustable gap between

Figure 39 - Flat deck for weaner pigs

the trough and the hopper. Well designed divisions in
the feed trough help prevent feed wastage. A step or
tray in front of the feeder may also help prevent feed
wastage. Pigs should be discouraged from playing with
the feed. Allow 50 mm (2 in.) of trough per pig or 2 pigs
per feed hole.

Pigs should have access to clean potable water at all
times. Nipple type waterers are used. Allow two nipples
per pen, across the pen from each other.

HOUSING THE
BREEDING HERD

THE GESTATION BARN: After weaning, sows are
moved to the gestation barn to be bred and housed until
farrowing. Many different types of gestation housing are
used. Two basic classes of sow housing — indoor and
outdoor housing — are common in our climatic
conditions.

The principal function of gestation housing is to
maximize the reproductive performance of the breeding
herd.

OUTDOOR SOW HOUSING

The breeding herd, except farrowing sows, may be
housed outside. Outside housing systems have the
advantage of being relatively low cost. A very simple
form of outside housing is to pasture the sows. Allow
one hectare for every 33 to 40 sows. Shelters for the
pigs to sleep in should be provided.

Another system of outdoor housing is to fence several
outdoor runs. Sows can now be grouped in smaller
groups. Pole shelters for sleeping and feeding can be
constructed. Allow two openings into the sleeping area,
which is bedded with straw, so that the boss sow cannot
prevent other sows from entering the sleeping area.

Outdoor systems can be designed for hand breeding by
including breeding pens in the layout. Sorting gates and
alleys will ease animal movement and sorting. Many
factors must be taken into account to accomplish this.
The operators' preference in housing systems must be
considered. A suitable environment must be provided
for the housed breeding herd. As well, wastes must be
removed from the building. Space must be allowed for
the breeding herd, sows and boars and for replacement
gilts. A well managed gestation barn has facilities that
allow the animals normal reproductive behavior and
does not put them under undue stress.

Group feeding is not a wise practice because if groups
are larger than 4-6 sows the boss sow will get more than
her share, while some other sow goes hungry. Feeding
stalls 450 to 500 mm (18 to 20 in.) wide by 1800 mm (6
ft) long and 1050 mm (42 in.) high enable each sow to
be fed as an individual. Sows can be self-fed using a
practice known as skip-a-day feeding. Sow groups are
allowed access to a self-feeder for 12-16 hours every
other day.

Water is provided to sows housed outside by a variety of
methods; the best system is to use an electrically heated
automatic waterer.

If sufficient area is allowed for the sows, manure
removal is not a problem. The housing area should be

located on a well drained site. Surface drainage must
not be allowed to contaminate lakes or streams.

Outdoor sow housing has disadvantages. In the winter
sows cannot be brought directly out of a warm
farrowing barn to cold outside housing. Feed
requirements are also greater when sows are housed
outside.

Fences for sows can be constructed of wooden planks,
page wire, or an electric fence may be used. One very
successful combination is a plank fence with an electric
wire 150 mm (6 in.) above ground level and 150 mm (6
in.) inside the fence. Figure 40 shows outdoor sow
housing facilities.

Figure 40 - Outdoor sow housing

CONFINED SOW HOUSING

The breeding herd can also be housed indoors.
Although labor requirements are reduced, a higher level
of management is needed to successfully operate a
confined gestation barn. The buildings tend to be
costly, relative to outdoor housing. An operator may
find increased foot and leg problems when he first
moves into an indoor gestation unit, but these can be
overcome by an aggressive culling program.

The following factors must be considered when
designing indoor sow housing:

1. Environment, including temperature and ventilation.

2. Waste handling.

3. Floor material and floor design.

4. Space considerations, pen types, and the social
interaction of the pigs.

5. Labor required to operate the unit.

6. Isolation of new breeding stock.

ENVIRONMENT

The breeding herd can function in a wide range of
temperatures. Temperatures in a confined controlled-
environment gestation barn can vary through the range
16-29° C with little apparent effect on the animals.
Temperatures above 29° C cause heat stress in the
animals.

Boars suffering from heat stress become temporarily
sterile, even after short periods of stress. Recovery
takes 6-9 weeks.

Heat stress adversely affects the sow at all times during
the gestation period. Embryo survival in a heat stressed
sow is poor. However, the most critical time is in the
period up to 3 weeks after breeding.

Temperatures below 13° C require more feed for the
housed herd. The extra feed is used to keep the animals
warm.

SPACE REQUIREMENTS

A breeding gestation barn must be large enough to
house the breeding herd. Normally space is allowed for
75% of the sow herd, replacement gilts and boars. Allow
space for 3 to 6 times the number of gilts needed for
replacement so that there will be a sufficient number of
gilts in heat when they are needed. Normally one boar is
allowed per 20 sows.

Pen layout in the gestation barn affects its success. For
efficient breeding the boar should be penned next to the
sows to be bred. Gates and passageways allow for ease
of access to move the boar and sows.

Gilts must be housed for reproduction stimulation. Gilts
are housed in small groups in pens. Stress to induce
estrus can be applied by regrouping gilts, or placing a
sow in the gilt groups. Gilt pens should be next to a
working boar so that he can be easily moved into the
pen. Lighting for the gilts should be 14 to 18 hours per
day at a level of 100 to 200 lux (10 to 20 foot candles).
Gilts must not be housed in individual stalls.

Equipment for housing the sow herd can take the form
of group pens, tie-stalls or tethers and individual stalls.

PENS

Partially slatted pens are used to house gilts and sows.
A 1500 X 4800 mm (5 ft x 16 ft) pen will house 4 to 5
sows. Partitions should be open and have vertical
dividers to maximize pen to pen communications
between sows and boars. Partition height should be a
minimum of 1050 mm (42 in.). Penned sows can be floor
fed or individual feed stalls may be used.

Pens for sow housing have lower costs than other forms
of confined sow housing. The animals in the pen are
more visible to the manager, which allows for easier
heat detection. Because sows in a group pen can

huddle, a lower room temperature, between 13-16° C,
can be used. A waterer is provided over the slat area.

Social problems within the sow groups may be a
problem when sows are housed in pens. No more than
4-6 sows should be grouped together. Individual
feeding of the sows is impossible so there is little
control over an individual sow's intake. Sows tend to be
irritable and poor housekeepers. Some problems with
dirty pens may be experienced. Figure 41 shows group
pens for sows.

Figure 41 - Group pens for dry sows and gilts

INDIVIDUAL STALLS

Individual sow stalls or gestation stalls are used to
house the sows individually. They consist of a crate like
structure with a feed trough at the front and a gate at
the rear. Usually there is 600-900 mm (20 in. to 30 in.) of
slat length at the rear of the stall. Stall dimensions are
450 mm to 600 mm (18 in. to 24 in.) wide, 2000 mm
(7 ft) long and 975 to 1000 mm (34 in. to 40 in.) high.
Metal tubing is usually used to construct stalls. Feeding
may be in a feed trough formed on the floor at the front
of the stall or in a feeder in the front gate of the stall.
Water may be supplied by individual waterers or in a
trough formed in the concrete.

Individual feeding of sows in stalls is very easy and can
be automated. Sow identification is also easier when
sows are housed in stalls.

Stalls tend to have a high capital cost to install. Building
temperatures must be 20°C or higher because the sows
cannot huddle or otherwise modify their environment.
Heat detection of sows in crates is a problem. Neither
the operator or a boar can accurately determine whether
or not a sow is in heat. Some sows may object to being
housed in stalls and will either need to be culled or
housed in pens. Rows of stalls shoud face each other so
that the sow can see the face of other sows (Figure 42).

TETHERS OR TIE STALLS

A tether stall is one in which the sow is tied or tethered.
One form of tether is placed immediately behind the
sow's front legs and tied to a ring in the floor. Old seat
belts or commercially made units may be used as
tethers. The tether stall is similar to the tie stall. Dividers
are about 1500 mm (5 ft) long, the width is 450 to 600
mm (18 in. to 24 in.) and the height is 975 to 1000 mm
(34 in. to 40 in.).

Equipment for tether stalls is less costly than for
individual stalls, but more costly than pens. There is
good access to and visibility of sows housed in tether
stalls. Sows in tethers can be individually fed.

Some sows do not like tethers and must be culled or
housed in pens. Heat detection of tethered sows is
difficult. As with individual stalls, the barn temperature
must be 20°C or higher. Figure 43 shows one type of
tether or stall.

In addition to sow housing, other types of pens are also
needed in the gestation barn. These include heat check
pens, boar pens and breeding pens.

HEAT CHECK PENS

Sows are normally bred 4-6 days after weaning and
again are heat checked 21 days after breeding. In a barn
with sow stalls it is easier to heat check the sows if they
are moved to a heat check pen. The heat check pen
should be easily accessible to the boar. It may also
double as a breeding pen.

BOAR PENS

Boars should be individually housed. Allow 4-5 m^ (40
to 50 ft2) per boar. Boar pens should be located next to
sows and to the breeding pens. Boars may be housed in
a portion of the breeding pen, i.e. over the slats. Allow
one boar per 20 sows.

BREEDING PENS

Locate the breeding pens to allow easy movement of
sows and boars. Gates should be located for ease of
operation and animal movement. The minimum size for
a breeding pen is 2400 mm x 2400 mm (8 ft x 8 ft). An
essential feature of the breeding pen is a dry non-slip
floor. Sand is an excellent material. An alternative is a
non-slip concrete surface.

WATER AND FEED

Several methods exist of watering sows. One of the
simplest is a common trough poured in the concrete
floor at the front of the individual stalls. A float valve
maintains a constant water level. This trough may also
be used for feeding. The water is shut off before feeding
and turned on afterwards. The bottom of this trough
should be no lower than the level of the sow's feet and
there should be a divider between each sow stall.

Figure 42 - Individual stalls for dry sows

Figure 43 - Tie stall for containing dry sows

Nipple waterers may also be used. These should be
mounted so that the sow has to reach for the nipple. In
a pen nipples are usually mounted in one corner and
over the slatted floor area. In stalls nipples are mounted
at the front and in some cases over the feed trough.

In a confined barn where sows are individually penned
feeding may be done by hand or mechanically. In this
situation some method of surprise feeding of the sows
is advantageous. A homemade system or a commercial
system may be used. The feed delivery system must be
filled while the sows are eating.

FACILITIES FOR NEW BREEDING STOCK

Another consideration is the housing of newly acquired
breeding stock. New stock should be housed away from
the main herd until its health status has been
determined.

FEEDER HOUSING
AND EQUIPMENT

A well designed feeder barn is easily automated and
requires a minimum amount of labor. Automated drop
feeders, self-feeders, or manual floor feeding may be
used. Manure can be handled as a solid or as a liquid.
The common system is to handle manure as a liquid.

Frame type buildings and rigid frame buildings are
commonly used as hog feeder barns. Other building
styles, such as pole buildings, can also be used. All
buildings must be adequately insulated — RSI 3.5 (R20)
walls and ceiling and RSI 1.4 (R8) foundation insulation.

Figure 44 shows the layout of a good hog pen. It is long
and narrow, has curbs for the pigs to lie against and has

distinct manuring, eating and sleeping areas. The short
cross partition assists in establishing good manuring
patterns.

Pens in a feeder barn are proportioned one wide by
three long. A typical size is 1800 x 4800 mm (5 ft x 16 ft).
This size of pen will hold 20 growing pigs or 10 finishing
pigs. When the 20 growers become crowded in one pen,
they are split into two groups of 10 and placed in two
pens.

Another system is to use a barn with two pen sizes. A
small pen 1200 x 3900 mm (4 ft x 13 ft) is used to hold
the growing pigs. A 1500 x 4500 mm (5 ft x 15 ft) pen is
used for finishing pigs. This system minimizes social
stress on the pigs caused by splitting or changing
groups.

Pen floors should have a smooth non-slip surface and
slope 1:25 towards the gutter. About 30% of the pen
area should be slatted, in the case of partially slatted

600 mm wide pen section

floor heat pipes

Figure 44 - This is a good hog pen. Note curbs over solid floor and open gates over gutter

floors. Heat, in the form of underfloor hot water pipes,
can be placed under the sleeping area of the pen to
provide a more comfortable environment for the pig.

Concrete slats 75-200 mm (3 in. to 8 in.) wide are
commonly used in feeder barns. They may be precast or
cast in place. There should be a 25 to 50 mm (1 in. to 2
in.) drop from the floor area to the slatted floor area.
Slats should be spaced 25 to 32 mm (1 to 1.5 in.) apart.
Other slats such as fibreglass, aluminum, metal and
plastic are also available.

The following list provides construction and
management guidelines that may help control manuring
patterns in a partially slatted floor feeder barn.

1. Use a solid pen partition over the solid floor.
Alternately use a 100 x 300 mm (4 in. x 12 in.) curb.

2. Use an open, or mesh, type divider over the slatted
floor area.

3. Place feeder in the sleeping area. Use pen-line
feeders as part of the pen partition.

4. Locate waterer at the rear of the slatted area.

5. Use zone or floor heating in the sleeping area during
periods of cold temperature.

6. Provide a step of 25-50 mm (1 in. to 2 in.) from the
floor to the slats.

7. Prevent drafts in the sleeping area.

8. Wet the slatted area immediately before placing pigs
in the pen.

9. Feed on the floor for the first few days.

10. Provide the correct amount of floor space per pig.

11. During hot weather use a sprinkler cooling system.

SWINE FEED
PROCESSING AND
HANDLING

Production of a 100 kg (220 lb) hog requires 400-500 kg
(880-1000 lb) of feed. Planning of feed processing and
handling is required to minimize the expense and labor
of processing, storing, handling and distributing feed.

Feed for the swine operation can be purchased as a
complete ration, or it can be processed on the farm
using farm produced grains and commercial
supplements. Special products such as starter rations,
crumbles and pellets will probably be purchased as they
do not lend themselves to farm processing.

Other options open to the swine producer include the
hauling of grain to a custom mill to be processed,
having a mobile custom mill come to the farm, or
processing feed on the farm. Hauling grain to a custom
mill to be ground and mixed with supplements can be
costly and time consuming. A mobile custom mill can
process farm grown grains, add supplements, and place
a complete ration into feed storage bins. On-farm feed
processing requires capital investment and the ability of
the manager to process and mix suitable rations.

Three operations are required for on-farm feed
processing:

• accurate measurement of ingredients

• grinding

• mixing of ingredients.

These operations can be handled by assorted
equipment.

PROPORTIONING EQUIPMENT

Proportioners or auger meters are common to on-farm
feed processing. They function by volumetric
proportioning and are continuous in metering.
Accuracy varies depending on auger speed, and the
characteristics of the material being metered. Very fine
materials do not meter accurately. Usually several
augers, one for each ingredient to be included in the
ration are assembled into a unit. This unit is then
mounted over the mill. Each auger in the unit must be
calibrated for the material being metered. Periodic
checks on the accuracy of metering are advisable.
Calibration should also be checked when new sources
of grain and supplement are used. Figure 45 shows a
proportioner mounted on an electrically driven hammer
mill.

Vibrating meters are also used. These consist of a box
with a trough and an adjustable gate. An electric
vibrator is attached to the bottom of the trough. Output

Figure 45 - Proportioning grinder-mixer

is changed by varying the frequency of the vibrations
and the gate opening. The meter is accurate for free
flowing materials including fine materials.

Weigh scales are the most accurate method of mixing a
ration. However, this requires the handling of
ingredients in batches. A batch system using scales
may be difficult to automate.

Other types of meters that can be considered are belt
type meters and dump type meters.

After the ration ingredients have been proportioned
they are ground. Swine rations are finely ground to aid
digestibility. Hammer mills and burr mills produce a
finely ground feed suitable for swine.

BURR IVIILLS

A burr mill is made up of two roughened metal plates,
one stationary and the other rotating. Material to be
ground is fed into the space between the plates and

STATIONARY BURR

Figure 46 - Burr miil

crushed and pulverized. Fineness of grind is controlled
by regulating the space between the plates. Figure 46
shows a burr mill.

HAMMER MILLS

A hammer mill consists of rotating hammers inside a
heavy perforated screen. The hammers strike the
material fed into the mill and pulverize it until it is
reduced in size enough to pass through the screen. The
fineness depends on the screen size. The finer the
screen, the more power required to grind the material
and the less the capacity of the mill. Figure 47 shows a
hammer mill.

I 1=1
Figure 47 - Hammer mill

Hammer mills used for on-farm processing of swine
feeds are generally in the 2 to 7.5 kW (2.5 to 10 hp) size
range, and fitted with a proportioner. Approximate
capacities will range from 100 kg to 320 kg (200 to 650
lb) per hour.

MIXERS

Mixing of the complete feed can be accomplished by
continuously proportioning feed ingredients into the
mill. Alternatively, individual ingredients can be
weighed (batched), milled and mixed, using either a
horizontal or vertical mixer shown in Figure 48.

Horizontal mixers do a faster, more thorough job of
mixing than vertical mixers. They do, however, require
more power than vertical mixers.

After the feed has been formulated it is moved to
storage. Typically, this is a feed bin located near the hog
operation.

Typically, a minimum of 3 rations must be stored. Bulk
rations may be stored in hopper bottom bins. Bagged
feeds can be stored in a feed room. Bulk rations are
moved by conveyor into the building.

Swine can be limit-fed or self-fed. In either case, feed
may be delivered by hand or by mechanical conveyor. A
feed cart can be used for hand feeding.

Several types of conveyors are used to move feed
around the hog barn. They are pneumatic, coreless
auger, auger, cable and chain types of conveyors.

^ mixer

Figure 48 - Mixers

FURTHER INFORMATION AVAILABLE FROM

Many aspects of planning and constructing a hog barn
have been discussed. Planning assistance and barn
plans are available from Alberta Agriculture's regional
engineers and swine specialists. Engineers and swine
specialists are located in the following Alberta
Agriculture offices and may be contacted directly or
through your district agriculturist:

Edmonton 7000 - 113 St.

Edmonton T6H 5T6
Phone: 427-2182

Lethbridge

Agriculture Centre
Lethbridge T1J 4C7
Phone: 329-5113

Airdrie

Bag Service #1
Airdrie TOM OBO
Phone: 948-5101

Fairview

Box 7777
Fairview
Phone: 835-2291

Red Deer

Box 5002
4920 - 51 Street
Red Deer T4N 5Y5
Phone: 343-5323

Barrhead Box 1540

Barrhead TOG OEO
Phone: 674-3351

Vermilion

Box 330

Vermilion TOB 4M0
Phone: 853-2811

APPENDIX

TABLE A — SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR SWINE
Accommodation Sows

Feedlot
hard surfaced area
pasture area

2.3 m2 per sow
0.4 ha per 2 sows
and litters

Weaners

(under 22 kg)

0.75 per pig
0.4 ha per 25 pigs

Feeders

(22-90 kg)

1.9 per pig
0.4 ha per 10 pigs

Confinement housing
solid floor pen area

Slotted floor pens
total pen floor area

slotted floor area
slot width
slat width

Partition height

Self-feeder length

Feed trough length

Individual feeding stall
dimensions

Gestation tie stall
width

length, feed trough
to gutter
to slotted floor

Gestation pen stall
width
length
height

Farrowing pen dimensions
side creeps, early weaning
side creeps, late weaning
front creep

clearance under partition
Feed

1.8 m^ per sow
under 180 kg

2.0 m^ per sow
over 180 kg

1.5 m^ per sow
under 180 kg

1 .9 m^ per sow
over 180 kg

35-100%
25-32 mm
38-230 mm

1070 mm

(not recommended)

450-600 mm per sow

450 mm wide
600-1800 mm long

600-700 mm

1450-1650 mm
1200 mm

660 mm
1800 mm
1060 mm

1500 X 2100 mm
1800 X 2100 mm
1500 X 2700 mm
200-250 mm

1 ton per sow
per year

0.2-0.4 m^ per pig

0.2-0.3 m2
per pig

30-100% (100% preferred)
9 or 25 mm
38-130 mm

700 mm

50 mm per pig

250 mm per pig

0.5 m^ per pig
under 45 kg

0.8 m^ per pig
45 kg-90 kg

0.35 m^ per pig

22-45 kg
0.5 m^ per pig

45-67 kg
0.7 m2 per pig

67-90 kg

30-100%
25-32 mm
38-230 mm

900 mm

75 mm per pig

330 mm per pig

295-325 kg
(birth to 90 kg)

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