Feed efficiency, i.e., how well pigs can convert feed into growth, is determined by the right pig feeder trough design, and is one of the most important factors that influence pig production.
Feed costs for commercial pig operations can account for up to two-thirds of the cost of production. In addition, recent research has shown the wrong size or design of pig feeder troughs can reduce daily feed intake of pigs, and thus impair the animal’s growth rate. The right design can increase growth, reduce feed cost, and impact how efficiently pigs’ access feed. The last thing you can afford is waste — whether from feed spillage on the ground, through the slats of the floor or from substandard feed efficiency. The largest impact on your feed cost and profit margin can be directly related to feed efficiency.
Osborne’s Ad-Lib Sow Feeders are designed for farrowing stalls or individual pens. They allow for maximum feed intake without waste. Feeding as much and as often as desired is necessary for lactating sows to maximise productivity. The proven mechanical-flow system of the Big Wheel family of ad-libitum lactation feeders make them work better for their purposes than any other feeders available. Virtually all feed disappearance can be equated to consumption, so your high performance animals always stay in top condition. Unlike Big Wheel sow feeders which are a complete feeding system, the Osborne Pivot Feeder™ is an economical option for applications where producers already have stainless steel troughs or bowls. The feeder easily bolts to existing bowls and readily accepts standard feed drop tubes.