Beatrice Lang
Electric fences are a popular choice for cattle farmers as they are effective physical and psychological barriers. The effectiveness of an electric fence depends on its ability to deliver an unpleasant shock to the animals that touch it. To safely contain most cattle, a fence charger that delivers a minimum of 2000-3000 volts on the fence line is required. A single strand of wire 90 cm off the ground is suitable for cattle, but if both cows and calves are grazing, two strands are needed. For permanent electric fences, bury the insulated power cable underground at a depth of 30 cm, in a rigid plastic pipe to prevent damage from traffic. For temporary fencing, a less permanent option is to use step-in posts and 1 or 2 strands of polywire or polytape.
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Planning and design
Firstly, determine the purpose of the fence. Electric fences for cattle are primarily a psychological barrier rather than a physical one. They are designed to deliver an unpleasant shock to deter cattle from crossing the fence. The effectiveness of the fence depends on its ability to deliver this shock, which is influenced by factors such as the type of animal, construction materials, and site characteristics.
Next, consider the power source. Options include mains electricity, battery, or solar power. Mains power is practical for permanent fences if it is available and dependable. Battery-powered energizers are suitable alternatives when mains power is unavailable or unreliable. Solar power is another viable option for permanent installations but can be expensive upfront.
Calculate the required voltage for the fence. A minimum of 2,000 to 3,000 volts on the fence line is recommended to safely contain most beef cattle. The voltage requirements may vary depending on factors such as vegetation on the fence line, length of the fence, and type of wire used. Ensure that the energizer you choose can deliver the necessary voltage, considering future expansions and potential voltage loss due to environmental factors.
Determine the number and spacing of wires. The number of wires can range from one to six strands, depending on factors such as the breed of cattle and the grazing situation. For rotational grazing, a 2- to 3-wire system can be used for cross-fencing, with wires spaced approximately 10 inches apart. If containing both cows and calves, two strands are required, with one electrified wire at nose height.
Plan the layout of the fence, including post spacing and wire height. Consider the length of the fence, the number of posts needed, and the placement of gateways for livestock movement. Ensure that the fence has good visibility to reduce stress on the animals and encourage movement. When placing gateways, use insulated gate hooks and insulators to maintain the electrical connection.
Finally, consider safety precautions. Avoid running electric fences near overhead power or communication lines to prevent dangerous high voltage induction. If a public footpath crosses the fence, install a non-electrified gate or stile. Ensure that separate fences powered by individual energizers are at least two meters apart. Regularly maintain the fence, clearing debris and checking for any faults or damage to ensure its effectiveness and the safety of your cattle.
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Power sources
The power source for an electric fence is an important consideration. The three main options are mains electricity, battery, or solar power.
Mains electricity is a good option for permanent fences if it is available and dependable. It is usually the most practical option, but it will increase your electricity bill. The operational cost of an energizer drawing 17 watts a day would be about $1.50/month (assuming an electrical rate of $0.12/kilowatt-hour). However, it is important to note that you should keep mains energizers out of reach of children.
Battery-powered energizers are a practical alternative when mains power is unavailable or unreliable. Dry cell batteries can power some portable DC energizers, but manufacturer estimates of battery life are usually optimistic.
Solar power is a viable alternative in the long run, but it is expensive. Battery and solar-powered fence chargers are ideal for remote installations where AC power is not available.
The effectiveness of an electric fence depends on its ability to deliver an unpleasant shock to animals that touch it. The number of joules needed depends on the length of the fence, the number of electrified wires, and the severity of conditions. Higher joule ratings may be required under severe conditions, such as wire passing through heavy vegetation. It is important to ensure that the fence is delivering the proper voltage regularly, and to check for any debris that may decrease the power running through the wire.
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Installation
To install an electric fence for cattle, you must first prepare and design your barrier layout. Choose a location that is best suited for your cattle, based on the size and number of cattle, as well as your water source location. Consider the site characteristics, such as terrain and soil moisture, and opt for an area with clear terrain. Clear the designated enclosure by removing any brush, debris, grass, deadfall, trees, bushes, and dead ends from the fence line area.
Next, you need to purchase the necessary materials, ensuring they are suitable for electric fencing. The fencing needs to be highly visible, and you can use electric fence tape, coated wire, braid, or rope for this purpose. You will also need to decide between a temporary or permanent fence. Temporary fences require more frequent care and are less sturdy, while permanent fences are more durable and require less upkeep. If you are using an electric charger, you will need access to an AC outlet, whereas solar chargers must be placed in full sunlight.
Before installing the fence, measure the amount of space you want to enclose. This will guide your choice of controller. You should also purchase enough wire for your area, ensuring it is suitable for electric fencing. High-joule chargers are recommended, especially for larger areas. Install the grounding rod near the charger, leaving a few inches above the ground, and ensure it is at least 6 feet long.
Now you are ready to begin constructing the fence. Install the permanent posts first, spacing them 5-10 meters apart and placing them 20-30 cm deep. The fence needs to be 40-48 inches high, or up to 60 inches if you have bulls. Install the electric fence insulators to keep the electric current in the wires and away from the fence posts. Start installing the electric fence polywire from the top down, with the top wire at nose level with your cows (around 32-36 inches off the ground). Connect the wire using connector clamps and pull it tight with a wire tensioner or cable puller, ensuring it is tight but not under too much tension. Do not wrap the wire around the fence posts.
Finally, turn on the charger and test the fence using a voltmeter to ensure it is working correctly. Check the fence daily, and if any issues arise, walk the perimeter to look for any interference from grass, shrubs, or other obstacles.
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Maintenance
The effectiveness of an electric fence depends on its ability to deliver an unpleasant shock to animals that touch it. To ensure the fence is working as intended, it is important to conduct regular maintenance.
Firstly, check that the fence is free from debris such as vegetation, trees, and fallen objects. This is important because debris can cause a decrease in power running through the wire. In addition, check that the insulators are in place and that the wire is tight.
It is also crucial to ensure proper grounding. Poor grounding is the leading cause of electric fence problems, as effective grounding completes the circuit necessary for an animal to receive a shock. Therefore, check that the ground rods are not corroded and consider adding more ground rods if necessary.
If the fence is not delivering the desired voltage, it may be due to missing or poor-quality insulators. Replace any missing or low-quality insulators and ensure that the fence is adequately grounded.
When using temporary fencing, it is important to mow the path of the electric fence or route it around taller vegetation to prevent power-draining problems. Regularly check that the fence is built tight and clear of weeds.
For permanent electric fences, it is recommended to bury the insulated power cable underground at a depth of 30 cm in a rigid plastic pipe to prevent damage. Position the ends of the pipe downwards to prevent water from entering.
To ensure the proper voltage is being delivered, use a voltmeter or a fault finder. A fault finder will also help to speed up the repair process by indicating the direction of the problem.
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Training cattle
Electric fences are a psychological barrier that cattle respect through psychological conditioning. When cattle are trained to respect electric fences, they will respect even the most meagre wires.
To train cattle, set up a small training area with a perimeter of woven wire or boards and an electric fence inside. This will reduce the time it takes for the cattle to learn about the fence and the time needed to return animals that escape during training. When you release the cattle into the training area, keep an eye on them but leave them alone to discover the fence on their own. Cattle are curious and will investigate the fence.
It is important that the first experience with the fence is an actual shock. Cattle will not respect the fence if their first experience is a tickle. Quality polywire that carries adequate current is important, as is ensuring that the fence is built tight and kept clear of weeds and other power-draining problems.
Once all the cattle have encountered the fence, run a single- or two-strand fence across one corner of the field. Observe for the first hour and check regularly for 12 hours. Then, divide the field in half with a fence down the middle and check the animals during the next 24 hours. If the fence has been challenged by the cattle, keep them in the field for another 24 hours until they stop.
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Frequently asked questions
The number of wires used to contain cattle can vary from 1 to 6 depending on the breed of cattle and the purpose of the fence. The fence should be at least 39 inches high and the bottom wire should be placed at least 12 inches above the ground. The wires should be spaced 10 inches apart. The effectiveness of the fence depends on its ability to deliver an unpleasant shock to the cattle.
Forward planning is essential to save time and energy. The length of the fence, the number of posts, and the energizer output are some of the factors to consider. The power source should also be decided beforehand. Cattle are sensitive to electric fences, so a single strand of wire 90 cm off the ground is usually enough. If both cows and calves are grazing, two strands are required.
Vegetation and debris on the wire can cause low voltage. The fence should be checked regularly to ensure it is working properly. The insulators should be checked and replaced if they are missing or of poor quality. The grounding system should also be checked as poor grounding is the leading cause of electric fence problems.
