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Pig Conductor Buyer's Guide

 

Conductors for pigs

 

Electric fences for pigs differ from those designed for other farm animals primarily due to pigs' unique behaviour, physical characteristics, and sensitivity. Pigs are intelligent, strong, and curious animals, so their electric fencing requires specific considerations to ensure both effectiveness and safety.

Pigs quickly learn the association between the fence and the electric shock, creating a psychological barrier. Once they experience the shock, they often avoid the fence, but consistent training and introducing young pigs early to the fence are crucial.

When selecting conductor materials for pig fencing, several important factors should be considered to ensure the fence is safe, durable, and appropriate for both adult pigs and piglets.

 

 

What to look for

Fence Type: Depending on whether you're setting up a permanent or mobile fence, different conductor materials may be suitable. Twine is ideal for mobile fences because it’s affordable, easy to install, and can be quickly rolled up when needed. For convenience, we recommend using fence reels during installation.
For permanent fences, we recommend fencing wire, which is more durable and requires less maintenance. Though installation is more labour-intensive, the fence remains long-lasting and weather-resistant. High Tensile wire is particularly effective, offering strong conductivity and durability due to its aluminium coating.

Durability: Regardless of the material you choose, ensure it is weatherproof and UV-resistant, and that it contains enough conductors (stainless steel and copper). The fencing material must withstand the elements, so higher-quality materials will ensure the fence lasts longer and remains secure.

Cost: The cost varies based on the material, number of conductors, and quality. We offer a wide range of products in different colours and styles, so you can find the perfect conductor for your pig fencing needs.

Recommended materials for pig fences:

  1. Fencing Wire: This material is made of galvanised steel wire. Depending on the application, diameters from 1.6 mm to 2.7 mm are available. The thicker the wire, the greater the conductivity. However, thicker wires also require more effort to install.
  2. Wire Twine: A very conductive material made from 7 galvanised steel strands woven together. Its low resistance makes stranded wire ideal for long, permanent pig fences.
  3. High Tensile Wire: The best fencing wire in our range, suited for permanent pig fences. Its zinc-aluminium coating provides excellent conductivity and high corrosion resistance, making it extremely durable. High Tensile wire offers up to 15 times better conductivity than standard wire. While more expensive, it provides outstanding performance and longevity, making it a great long-term investment for permanent fencing.
  4. Polywire: Polywire is made from a combination of conductive metal threads (stainless steel and/or copper) and non-conductive plastic fibres (PE or PP), this material is durable, cost-effective, and efficient for mobile pig fencing.

Recommended insulators for pig fencing:

Insulators should match the fence material. Special insulators are available for both twine and wire, designed to isolate the conductive material from the posts (whether wood, metal, or plastic). The most common types are plastic insulators, made from durable, weather-resistant materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, which are cost-effective and long-lasting.

Ceramic insulators offer superior insulation and are highly resistant to extreme weather, though they are more expensive and heavier. They are often used only for tension and corner posts, where extra strength is required.

For pig fences, we recommend using ring insulators, W-insulators, and wire clips.

BARBED WIRE? PLEASE DON'T! We advise against using barbed wire as a fence for pigs, as the animals can sustain serious injuries if they try to push through the fence.

Our manufacturers of high-quality conductor material:

  • Gallagher, e.g., for high tensile, strands, ropes, and tape
  • Pulsara, e.g., for affordable ropes and tape

 

 

Choose your conductor material in just 3 steps

 

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If you have any questions or would like personalised advice, we are happy to assist you.