Precast Feed Bunk Features Inside Posts

Precast Feed Bunk Features Inside Posts LIVESTOCK Feeding Equipment 6-5-10 A new precast feed bunk with posts inside the bunk rather than along the outside surface makes it easier to clean around the bunk with a blade or scraper. "Cleaning equipment cannot catch or tear off posts as happens with posts mounted outside so there's less breakage and less injury to live-stock," says Gregory Schmiesing, New Bremen, Ohio, farmer who designed the bunks. "Also, concrete around them makes for stronger posts. Also, the cross piece for hanging mechanical feeders is shorter and sturdier." The new precast feed bunks are cast in a metal form with block outs to make 4 by 4-in. or 4 by 6-in. slightly tapered square holes inside the trough and the wall of the feed bunk. A square, upright post can be mounted inside the square hole so that a roof may be mounted on the post. Also, a mechanical feeder and a feed rail may be mounted on the post. The H-shaped sections of the feed bunks can be cast in any size lengths. But Schmeising says the most popular size is either 7 or 8-ft. lengths. The sections can be ganged up to any length desired. The first or starter bunk section has four-holes cast for a post in each corner. The following sections have two-holes cast at each end so the posts will always be at the end of the bunk. When using a track or shuttle feeder, the track can be mounted to the end of the bunk. Posts are inserted in the holes of the bunk and fastened by a bolt on the top and a lag screw on the bottom. Concrete mortar is placed around the post for a tight seal. For more information, contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Gregory Schmiesing, Rt. 1, Box 23, New Bremen. Ohio 45869 (nh 419 629-20291.

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