What constitutes an out of feed event? It’s more than just running out of feed when you need it. Sometimes birds can find themselves on empty due to an equipment issue. But a smart controller system can help you monitor your barn for signs of a breakdown.
Feed System Accident Prevention
For example, many poultry feeders use a pressure switch to tell the motor when it needs to run. If the feeder is full, no need to push any more feed; if it’s empty, it’s time to get the feed system running. But if a drop tube comes loose from the hopper and dumps the feed on the floor, that pressure switch might not get triggered, meaning the system wouldn’t get the message that anything was wrong – other than that a feeder was empty. This means the feed line system could be dumping feed onto the floor, maybe even overnight. If it’s a 3.5 inch line, running 220 lbs. a minute all night that’s thousands of pounds of feed making a mess. This can also create a labor issue because someone will have to clean up the spill, loading feed into wheelbarrows and finding a way to keep it from being wasted.
Feed System Alarms and Indicators
A smart controller, such as the EDGE controller, can measure amp draw, so if your system is running excessively – or not at all – you can be alerted that an issue needs to be addressed. You can also set a feed runtime alarm. So, if your fill system has been running for 20 minutes, and you know it only takes five, you can head to the barn to address the issue, but first you can turn the system off – right from the mobile app in the palm of your hand.
Bin Scale Accuracy
Another tool in the smart controller arsenal is the integration with bin scales. Cumberland’s bulk feed tank (BFT) scales and load cells are accurate to within one percent of the actual weight of the feed in the bin, giving producers a better idea of where they stand throughout the production cycle. This lessens the chances they might have to call a reclamation truck after ordering too much feed or make a costly last minute order on a weekend or holiday. [KT1] This also cuts down on the unreliable and unsafe practice of visually checking the bin to assess feed levels. Due to bridged feed in the BFT, this method can also be inaccurate.
Integrator Connectivity
Smart controllers and a quality feed management system can help you predict when you need more feed and can alert you when it’s time to call for a delivery. The system can even connect with integrators to let them know that you’ll need a delivery soon. Integrators can also use the system to plan routes that will make their deliveries more efficient.
Let Cumberland’s feed management system help you keep track of feed inventory, run times and equipment maintenance.
Our Remote Feed Management Program and EDGE controllers can put control right at your fingertips, 24/7.
For more information, contact your equipment dealer or visit CumberlandPoultry.com.
