Identity

The Chain Feeder System is an automated, open linear mechanical feeding apparatus utilizing a continuous flat-link steel transport chain pulled through galvanized troughs to distribute feed precisely.

Overview

The Chain Feeder System is a medium-priority, automated feeding mechanism essential in breeder and pullet houses where feed restriction and high flock uniformity are required. It operates by rapidly pulling a flat chain through feeding troughs to distribute feed before birds can select it, preventing nutritional segregation. Common operational failures include chain link breakage, track derailment, and seized corner wheel bearings due to dust and feather infiltration.

Structured Facts

Classification

Open Linear Mechanical Feeding Equipment / Automated.

Purpose

Precise feed restriction and high flock uniformity; prevents nutritional segregation and feed selection.

Working Principle

Uses a continuous flat-link steel transport chain pulled through a loop of galvanized steel troughs. Driven by a high-torque motor gear unit, it pulls feed from a central hopper. High-speed drive units pull the chain rapidly to distribute feed along the entire loop before birds can consume it near the hopper, ensuring equal access and uniform nutrition.

Technical Specifications

• Trough Outer Width Profile: 70 to 85 mm (Structural Blueprints).
• High-Speed Transport Rate: 12 to 36 m/min (Roxell Fortena Specs).
• Standard Trough Height Range: Raised up to 2.2 m for house cleaning.

Capacity

• Linear Stocking Capacity: 10 to 12 birds per meter of double-sided trough (Standard Breeder Manuals).
• Drive Unit Mechanical Capacity: Up to 300 m of continuous loop (Manufacturer Manuals).

Installation Requirements

Installed as a continuous loop. Entire loop must be connected to an elevating winching system capable of raising it to 2.2 m for cleanout.

Operating Parameters

• Drive Motor Output Power: 0.55 to 1.5 kW (IP55 Rating).
• Feed Depth Setting: 10 to 15 mm via feed hopper slide.

Maintenance

Daily checks to verify correct chain tension and ensure corner guide rollers turn freely. Feed hopper slide adjusted to maintain 10 to 15 mm feed depth to prevent billing waste. During cleanout, elevate the entire loop, run dry to remove feed debris, then wash.

Cleaning & Disinfection

Loop elevated and run dry to remove debris before washing.

Advantages

Ensures equal access to feed, prevents aggression, prevents feed selection, guarantees nutritional uniformity.

Limitations

Heavy structural loads cause flat chain stretch, link breakage, track derailment, or premature drive sprocket wear. Feed dust and feathers infiltrate corner wheel bearings, causing them to seize and overload the motor. Low chain speeds lead to uneven bird weights and nutritional segregation. Open trough can pose bird injury risks.

Quantitative Data

• Capacity: Linear Stocking Capacity 10 to 12 birds per meter of double-sided trough; Drive Unit Mechanical Capacity up to 300 m of continuous loop.
• Dimensions: Trough Outer Width Profile 70 to 85 mm.
• Power Requirement: Drive Motor Output Power 0.55 to 1.5 kW (IP55 Rating).

Relationships

• Housing Systems: Breeder and Pullet houses.
• Environmental Controls: Smart Controller (coordinates feeding times with light-on cycles).
• Production Stages: Breeders, Pullets.
• Related Equipment: Feeder Space Allocation, Smart Controller.
• Maintenance SOPs: Daily chain tension checks, run dry before wash.