Wallaces Farmer

Slideshow: Environmental control and feeder products are introduced at Iowa Pork Congress.

February 7, 2020

6 Slides

New products and technologies to assist pork producers were on display at the 2020 Iowa Pork Congress and other swine production trade shows in Midwest states this winter. One of the companies participating, Automated Production Systems (AP), featured several innovative tools and improved approaches to help maintain optimal barn environments.

Edge controller enhancements. A first in the swine industry, a new weather station feature senses rain, outside temperature, outside humidity, wind speed, wind direction and barometric pressure so that the controller can skip ventilation modes to use natural ventilation instead. A healthy barn environment is maintained while reducing energy costs. 

Another Edge enhancement allows the controller to connect with standard sensors to detect potential environmental issues, such as carbon dioxide, ammonia, smoke, air speed and water pressure problems. Producers automatically receive email or text alerts.

The new Edge backup mode offers a third layer of protection in the event the main and redundant control systems fail. Backup mode is automatically activated, enabling ventilation and other environmental functions to be maintained until primary controller function can be restored.

Flex-Flo Unloader. This product offers increased wear performance and 30% more surface area for feed flow to reduce bridging events. A full line of stainless steel and galvanized models for M220 to M500 Flex-Flo feed delivery systems are available in all configurations. Features include a low-profile clear boot design, composite tube anchors and wear plates, and custom molded clear access door.

Automatic slide gate. This feed delivery accessory provides reliable control with accurate gate positions and quick gate closure. It offers an automatic opening based on load cell or proximity switch inputs, as well as remote operation inside the barn, helping to maintain the highest standards for biosecurity.

MC and VR heaters. MC 50/250 and VR 50/250 variable-rate heaters offer producers improved efficiency, more control, easier access and increased longevity compared to most other forced air units available on the market today. The MC and VR line‐style burner offers an extended range of 50,000 to 250,000 BTUs, allowing the heater to run longer while improving heat distribution and humidity control.

Other features include a durable, easy-to-use ignitor and easy maintenance with access through a removable door. Every component of the heater can be serviced using a quarter-inch nut driver.  

For more information, contact your AP dealer or visit automatedproduction.com.

Source: Automated Production Systems, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.

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