Electric fences are one of the best perimeter security solutions for horse property owners. They are safe, easy to install and highly effective. Most people think that electric fences are dangerous and will cause severe injury, but they actually do less damage to stock than physical barriers. Using a pulsed current rather than constant electricity reduces the risk of harm.
High-Tensile Wires
High-tensile wires are the backbone of electric fences. They can be made of either galvanized steel or aluminum and are used to conduct the electrical charge that deters animals from the area contained by the fence. While both types of fence wire can carry an electric current, only the high-tensile option can resist corrosion from rain and other weather. Additionally, a higher carbon content rate in the high-tensile wire results in greater strength and less elongation than mild steel, making it more dependable. It’s important to use the same gauge of fence wire throughout your system. Different gauges will create resistance in the form of rust and connections, which will reduce the efficiency of your system. It’s also a good idea to choose quality line post insulators. One failed insulator can ground your entire system and prevent it from working effectively. Avoid inexpensive yellow insulators as they don’t last very long and tend to attract moisture.
Ground Wires
Having a good ground system is essential for your electric fence to work properly. Without one, your fence may not produce enough power to keep animals in or out.
A proper ground will provide a path for electricity to travel down into the ground and disperse harmlessly, minimizing the chance of an animal or person getting shocked by stray voltage. There are two primary methods to achieve this: One involves using steel ground rods that are pounded into the ground and connected to the energizer’s ground terminal. Galvanized or copper clad steel ground rods are recommended because mild steel tends to corrode in moist soil. Two or three ground rods are usually required depending on the joule of your energizer and soil condition. Grounding systems should be checked periodically with a volt meter to ensure they are working as intended. Annually brushing the ground rods and connections will help prevent corrosion and extend their lifespan.
Energizers
Modern electric fence energisers convert electricity into very short pulses of high voltage with low amperage, which prevents damage to animals and humans. These pulses travel down the energizer’s conductors to a metal rod implanted in the ground called an earth. When an animal touches the conductors and the earth simultaneously, a complete circuit is made and the animal receives a shock. Several circumstances can draw voltage and amperage from the energizer and rob the fence of its power. Weeds and vegetation growing on the fence line drain voltage, as do rusty insulators and bad splices. Wet weather magnifies these problems. A well-designed, properly installed ground system is the key to a good working electric fence malaysia. Inadequate grounding is the most common cause of poor fence performance. Use a Gallagher digital voltmeter to see how much voltage is coming out of your fence, and make sure your energiser is properly grounded (10 m away from the mains safety earth and buried water pipes). Avoid running the energizer’s earth cable in parallel to buildings or radios.
Controllers
Regardless of whether you’re securing livestock enclosures or protecting crops from wildlife, electric fence systems can be an effective deterrent by capitalizing on animal behavior and instinct. However, for a successful installation and optimal performance, there are some essential factors to keep in mind. Before beginning the installation process, identify your fencing needs and goals. This will help you decide the number and placement of fence posts required as well as assess power source availability and choose an appropriate energizer. Once the system is installed, it’s important to monitor it regularly for any signs of wear or damage, such as vegetation growth, broken or corroded wire, and faulty insulators. It’s also a good idea to test the fence’s voltage to ensure it’s within its recommended range. Finally, make sure that your fence is properly grounded to reduce the risk of shocks for both humans and animals. It’s also a good idea that you clearly mark the system with warning signs to prevent unintentional contact.