Livestock farming: how to create the best water system?

Efficient water systems in livestock farming: why are they important?

A well-designed water system plays a fundamental role in livestock farming: not only does it ensure adequate water distribution to the animals, but it also guarantees the quality of the liquid supplied. If the water is contaminated or distributed unevenly, it can have negative consequences on the health of the livestock, as well as on the profitability of the farm. For this reason, a good water system must:

• ensure a constant supply that meets the needs of livestock;
• ensure that the water is free of contaminants and pathogens;
• allow for the controlled administration of additives and medications;
• minimise waste and spillage;
• be easy to maintain and clean to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and residues.

What are the fundamental components of a water system for animal husbandry?

A water system for livestock farms must consist of a series of elements that work together to ensure a continuous and safe flow of drinking water for the animals. Here are the main components:

Pumps and dosing systems

In a livestock watering system, pumps regulate the pressure and flow required for uniform water distribution. Depending on the size of the farm and specific requirements, different types of pumps can be chosen:

• centrifugal pumps, ideal for transporting large volumes of water;
• diaphragm pumps, used for dosing precise quantities of additives;
• peristaltic pumps, used for administering sensitive substances such as probiotics and vitamins.

At the same time, dosing systems such as proportional dosing units enable additives to be accurately introduced into the water so that each animal receives the correct amount of active ingredients.

Distribution networks

Every water system for livestock farming must be equipped with a network of pipes specifically designed to prevent stagnation and ensure a constant flow of water. The materials most commonly used for construction are:

• PVC, lightweight, economical and corrosion resistant;
• stainless steel, particularly suitable for systems requiring maximum hygiene;
• polyethylene, flexible and resistant to chemicals.

Water filtration and treatment systems

As mentioned above, poor-quality water can reduce the effectiveness of medications and compromise livestock health. Consequently, it is essential to integrate filtration and disinfection systems that guarantee the supply of high-quality water, such as:

• activated carbon filters, to eliminate impurities and odours;
• sand filters, to remove any solid particles;
• UV systems, for water sterilisation.

Administration of drugs, vitamins and disinfectants: how to control it?

Within livestock farms, water is the ideal vehicle for administering drugs, vitamins and disinfectants, provided that distribution is uniform and controlled. To achieve optimal results, attention must be paid to some very important aspects:

• that dosing is accurate, to avoid overdosing or underdosing that could compromise animal health;
• that the products are compatible, i.e. that the integrated substances are soluble and do not react with each other;
• that maintenance is regular, to avoid the accumulation of residues and ensure correct dispensing.

In this regard, proportional dosing units are the ideal solution for the even distribution of active ingredients, as they automatically regulate the quantity of additives based on the water flow and allow for more precise and functional control.

Mist systems for livestock: why should they be integrated into the water system?

Misting systems help improve the microclimate in livestock farms, reduce heat stress and promote animal welfare. They should always be used in livestock farming, as they offer numerous advantages:

• They reduce the ambient temperature thanks to water evaporation.
• They alleviate heat stress, especially in summer.
• They improve air quality by reducing dust and ammonia.

Misting systems must therefore be integrated into the general water system of livestock farms in order to ensure controlled delivery and, of course, no waste.