Electric Fencing

From SCIANS

Contents 1 Electric Fencing Provides Some Real Shock Value 2 How does it work? 3 Types of fencing circuits 4 Designing a fence system that is right for you 4.1 Choosing fence wire: 4.2 Choosing a fence energizer: 5 Still sitting on the fence?

Electric Fencing Provides Some Real Shock Value

Electric fence, livestock fencing, fencing circuits, all live wire system, ground wire return system, impedance energizers, battery energizers, solar energizers

Electric fencing is not used as a physical barrier, rather a psychological one. Just the memory of an earlier shock can be enough to discourage an animal from trying to cross the fence again.

Electric fencing is a versatile and cost effective way to control your pastured livestock. You can make it permanent or temporary and even use it with other types of fencing. Best of all, when properly installed electric fencing can last 20 years or more.

How does it work?

A fence energizer makes short, high voltage impulses that run through the wire. When an animal touches the fence it completes the circuit because the current travels through the soil to the ground rods and back to the energizer. Can’t picture it? click here

Types of fencing circuits

There are 2 types of fencing circuits: all live wire system and ground wire return system.

• 1. All live wire system works best in areas with fairly regular rainfall and green vegetation for most of the year. This is because moisture in the soil allows the electricity to travel through it better in order to return to the energizer.

• 2. Ground wire return system has the electricity travelling through a ground wire in the fence line and back to the energizer. So, this setup works well in areas that are more dry, stony or frozen.

Designing a fence system that is right for you

Keep in mind the type of setup you require when designing your fence system. Do you require portable, temporary or permanent fencing? There are many components you can use to make a fencing system that is best for you. For example reels and tumble wheels are used to make portable fences easier to move.

Choosing fence wire:

The number and height of wires to use depends on your individual herd.

Choosing a fence energizer:

• 1. Impedance energizers are a great choice because they increase the shock if vegetation touches the fence. Choose a low impedance energizer for the short but intense pulse. You should look for a pulse that lasts for only 0.0003 seconds. Energizers with pulses of 0.003-0.03 are cheaper but they allow heat build up which increases your risk of fire.

• 2. Solar or battery operated energizers are good for remote locations. Unfortunately, they are more expensive and require more maintenance. Theft may also become an issue.

Electric fencing is versatile and long lasting. It provides an easy way to pasture your herd without breaking the bank.

Still sitting on the fence?

• For more information on this topic including installation and general fencing tips check out the pdf.