RESOURCES & EDUCATION
The Problem
Electrical network and equipment found on livestock farms are constantly evolving. Electrical loads have grown significantly and the automation of farms has led to non-linear loads such as variable-speed drive, sophisticated ventilation and electronic lighting. These elements leak current, which flows on the farm's grounding network.
The presence of electric current in the animal environment, regardless of the source, generates stress. Over time, this stress can affect the immune system. A weakened immune system makes the animal more prone to diseases and consequently affects its well-being and performance.
Hogs are also sensitive !
Observed Symptoms and Behaviors in Hogs Stray voltage stresses pigs and affects their immune systems. Pigs that are bothered by stray voltage often present some of the following readily observable symptoms:
Behaviors:
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Excessive nervousness
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Uncleanliness
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Decrease water consumption
Consequences:
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Below average number of piglets born per litter
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Below normal weight gain
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Increase in number of still born piglets
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Increase in mortality rate
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Decrease feed conversion
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Dehydration
Of all livestock, dairy cows are more likely to be affected by stray voltage.
Stray voltage stresses cows and affects their immune systems. Cows that are bothered by stray voltage often present some of the following readily observable symptoms:
Behaviors:
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Twitching tail
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Dancing cows
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Kicking milker
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Refusing to enter milk parlor or barn
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Lapping water at the trough
Consequences:
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High incidence of mastitis
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High somatic cell count
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Stagnation or reduction in production
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Reduction in milk production
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Problem detecting heat
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High breeding rate
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Longer milking time
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Incomplete milkout
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Poor body score
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High cull rate
Scientific Validation
In parallel with its interventions on livestock farms, Agrivolt has obtained scientific validation of the presence of electric currents in the animal environment, their different sources and their transmission methods all the way up to the animal. Agrivolt has also had its neutralization products validated.