By the WniF editorial team
The latest PT1 Vario-Mix dry feeder from Dutch manufacturer PT1 kel BV is computer controlled to help cut feed waste and can now automatically add water to the feed.
The new unit, pictured above left, which is designed to feed 40 pigs (in one pen if placed centrally, or 20 each side if in the pen division), has a bar for the pigs to lift to dispense feed, but this doesn't link directly to the dispensing mechanism. Instead, it send a signal to a computer that causes if food should be provided or not.
This preventions the pigs "playing" with the dispensing bar, too much food coming out, and the extensive product being washed.
Up to 20 of the latest PT1 Vario-Mix feeders can be linked to one controller, but at present all the units must share the same settings for how many times the feeder can be updated in an hour, the quantity of feed dispensed each time and how much water is dispersed along with the feed .
The company says a controller capable of supporting different settings for each feeder is currently being developed.
PT1 has also launched a new piglet dry feeder, pictured above right, which is made to fit in the condition between two pens.
This latest unit corporations a water dispenser that allows the water to be mixed with the food.
PT1 Piglet Feeder has a capacity of 10 litres and is designed to feed 25 pigs on each side from five to 20kg.
