Umair Gaines
Electric fencing is a system of fencing that uses electric shocks to deter animals or people from crossing the fence. The effectiveness of an electric fence is determined by its electrical components, particularly the voltage and joules. While voltage refers to the speed of the electric charge, joules refer to the energy or work done to move the electric charge. In the context of electric fencing, jules is likely referring to the unit of measurement, joules, which are used to describe the energy output of the fence's energizer. This is an important factor in determining the overall performance of the electric fence.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Unit of Measure | Joules |
| Definition | A unit of energy or work done to move an electric charge through an electric potential |
| Volts vs. Joules | Voltage is the speed at which the current moves along the fence line, while joules are the energy used to create that voltage |
| Output Joules | The amount of energy that an electric fence will actually output; this is typically lower than the stored joules due to losses in the transformer |
| Stored Joules | The amount of energy stored in the capacitor of the transformer |
| Typical Recommendation | 1 output joule per mile of fence |
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What You'll Learn
Stored vs output joules
Electric fence energizers are rated in joules, a unit of energy. Stored joules refer to the amount of energy in an energizer's capacitors, while output joules indicate the amount of energy that is delivered to the fence with each pulse. Understanding the difference between these two types of joules is crucial for assessing the performance and effectiveness of an electric fence.
Stored joules represent the energy that builds up in the capacitor until it reaches a set level. At this point, the energy is discharged into the transformer, which increases the voltage while decreasing the amperage. The transformer then transmits a safe electrical shock through the fence. However, transformers are not 100% efficient, and some energy is lost in the process. This means that the stored joules in the capacitor will not match the output joules delivered by the transformer.
Output joules, on the other hand, represent the actual energy that is delivered to the electric fence system. They indicate the strength of the shock provided to any animal that touches the fence. The number of output joules needed depends on factors such as the length of the fence, the type of animals being deterred, and the construction and material of the fence. For example, a typical recommendation is one output joule per mile of fence.
When selecting an energizer for an electric fence, it is important to prioritize output joules over stored joules. Some manufacturers may emphasize high stored joule ratings while neglecting to mention the loss of efficiency in the transformation process. By choosing an energizer that provides accurate output joule ratings, you can ensure the safety and effectiveness of your electric fence.
In summary, stored joules refer to the energy stored in the capacitors of an electric fence energizer, while output joules represent the actual energy delivered to the fence and determine the strength of the shock. Understanding the difference between these two types of joules is essential for assessing the performance and effectiveness of an electric fencing system.
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Volts vs joules
Electric fences are a popular method for containing livestock and restricting them to a specific area. They work by delivering a non-lethal shock to any animal that comes into contact with the electrified wires. When choosing an electric fence, it is important to consider several factors, including volts, joules, and amps.
Volts measure the strength of the electric shock delivered to the animal touching the fence. The higher the voltage, the stronger the shock. Voltage is the pressure or force of the electrical current, which can be thought of like water pressure in a hose.
Joules, on the other hand, measure the energy delivered by an electric fence pulse. This calculation takes into account the voltage and the amperage of the pulse, and determines the distance the pulse can travel along the fence wire while still delivering an effective shock. A higher joule rating will deliver a stronger shock. Think of joules as the horsepower needed to carry a load. A fence charger must have enough joules to push the voltage down the fence line and through vegetation and resistance. The length of the fence and its construction should determine the number of output joules needed. The typical recommendation is one output joule per mile of fence.
Amps measure the amount of electrical current flowing through a circuit and are used to measure the amount of current that flows through the animal’s body when it comes into contact with the fence. Higher amperage can be more dangerous to animals and humans, so it is important to choose an electric fence with an appropriate level of amps for the animals being contained.
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Transformers' efficiency
Electric fences are barriers that use electric shocks to deter humans and animals from crossing a boundary. The power energiser in an electric fence converts power into a brief high-voltage pulse. This is achieved through a transformer that steps up the voltage while reducing the amperage. The transformer takes the energy from a capacitor, which acts as a storage tank for electrical energy.
However, transformers are not 100% efficient in this process. Most transformers in electric fence chargers are only about 60-75% efficient. This means that the joules of energy stored in the capacitor will not match the joules broadcast by the transformer. For example, a capacitor with 10 joules of stored energy, connected to a transformer with 60% efficiency, will only output 6 joules of energy. This discrepancy between stored and output joules is important to note when considering the performance of an electric fence.
The efficiency of a transformer in an electric fence can be calculated by multiplying the stored joules by the transformer's efficiency rating. For example, if a capacitor stores 10 joules of energy and the transformer has an efficiency of 0.60, the output energy will be 6 joules. This calculation helps determine the actual energy available for the electric fence to utilise.
To improve the efficiency of electric fence energisers, some manufacturers focus on reducing energy losses. This can be achieved through various methods, such as utilising different types of energisers or improving the overall design. Additionally, some pasture fence energisers are equipped with power economisers, allowing the use of fewer batteries throughout the season.
It is important to note that the efficiency of a transformer in an electric fence system impacts the overall performance and effectiveness of the fence. Higher efficiency results in more energy available for the fence, contributing to more powerful and consistent shocks. Therefore, understanding and optimising transformer efficiency is crucial for the effective operation of electric fences.
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Energizer selection
The energizer, also known as a fencer, is the cornerstone of any electric fence. It is the source of electrical current to your fence and is what determines the "zap" when touched. There are three main types of energizers: AC-powered/plug-in, DC-powered/battery-powered, and solar-powered.
When selecting an energizer, the first step is to determine your power source. If your fence is close to a power outlet, an energizer that plugs into the mains is often the cheapest and easiest solution. As the fence gets further away from a power source, running wires becomes expensive, and other power options become more attractive. If your fence is in a remote location, a solar panel may be the best solution. Solar panels tend to be the most expensive power source, but because the panel recharges the battery, it is less likely to lose power than batteries alone. For solar panels to be effective, they need to receive a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight every day. Deep-cycling 12-volt marine batteries are another potential power source for an energizer. It is best to have at least two to swap out, so one can charge while the other powers the energizer.
The number of joules a fence charger needs to effectively power an electric fence will depend on several factors, including the size of your property, the type of animals you are trying to deter, and the type of fence you have. For small properties with light fencing and small animals, a charger with 1-2 joules of output may be sufficient. For larger properties with heavy-duty fencing and larger animals, you may need a charger with 3-5 joules of output or more. High-tensile, polywire, and polytape fences require fewer joules than traditional steel-wire fences because they are lighter and have less resistance.
It is important to ensure that your energizer is low impedance and certified safe. A simple rule of thumb is to match your length of the fence to 1/10th of the energizer's voltage rating. The energizer must put out enough energy to deliver the right voltage along the entire fence. Dry, sandy, or rocky soil increases resistance, resulting in a weaker, less effective pulse that may not deter animals. To overcome this, use additional ground rods, a Positive/Negative fence, and/or a higher output energizer.
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Voltage and hair thickness
Electric fences are designed to shock animals or humans who attempt to cross the boundary. The voltage of an electric fence is a measure of the strength of the electric shock delivered to the animal touching the fence. The higher the voltage, the stronger the shock. The voltage output of most animal electric fence energizers is around 7500 volts, but this can vary depending on the type of animal and the thickness of its hair or fur. For example, horses typically require 1500 to 3000 volts, while sheep and goats may need 4000 to 5000 volts due to their thicker coats. Similarly, wild animals with thick insulating fur, such as bears, wolves, and coyotes, require higher voltages of 5000 to 6000 volts.
The joule rating of an electric fence is another important factor to consider. Joules measure the energy delivered by an electric fence pulse and determine the strength of the shock. The joule rating will depend on factors such as the length of the fence, the type of animal, and any vegetation or obstructions on the fence line. For example, small animals like rabbits or dogs only need a joule rating of 0.2 to 2, while larger, stubborn animals like sheep or goats require a higher rating of 1 to 3 joules.
The type of charger used in an electric fence can also impact its effectiveness. Low impedance chargers are the most common type today, delivering a short-duration, high-voltage DC current with a low-amplitude pulse. In contrast, high impedance chargers, commonly used in the past, produce a high-voltage, low-amperage shock but are more prone to grounding out by vegetation, reducing their effectiveness.
To ensure the safety and effectiveness of electric fences, it is crucial to select the appropriate voltage and joule rating based on the specific animals to be contained or excluded and the conditions of the fence line. Regular maintenance and monitoring of voltage levels are also necessary to maintain the desired level of containment.
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