Tal-Tec has been manufacturing cattle scales for over four decades. Initially, their scales relied on a mechanical spring balance system. This design had a significant drawback: it utilized a single point for weight measurement, making it challenging to weigh large animals such as bulls. To address this, levers were introduced to distribute weight from all four corners of the crate to the balance. However, over time, these levers could corrode, bend, or create friction, compromising the accuracy of the scales.
With the advent of electronic scales, which were initially expensive, the industry saw a shift. These modern scales employ load cells that convert weight into an electrical signal for display. Unlike their mechanical predecessors, electronic scales use four load cells—one located at each corner—connected by copper wires to a display unit. However, these wires can also impact accuracy, leading to frustration among farmers.
For instance, if a 100 kg weight is placed evenly on a scale, each corner should register 25 kg, totaling 100 kg. If one corner fails, the total weight displayed would drop to 75 kg. Additionally, if the weight shifts to one side, the distribution alters, resulting in potential inaccuracies, especially if a load cell fails.
Farmers are encouraged to conduct a simple “corner test” before weighing animals. By standing near each corner, they can record the weight and verify that the display resets to zero after they step off. If all corners show the same reading and reset correctly, the scale is accurate; otherwise, the issue must be addressed before further use.
Mobile Solutions for Livestock Handling
Tal-Tec offers a range of mobile livestock handling solutions tailored to meet various farming needs. Their Mobile Neck and Body unit features a neck clamp, body clamp, and guillotine gate, facilitating easy management of livestock. When paired with the LS4 scale, this unit can also function as a scale. Similarly, the Cattle Mobile Crush is designed with a neck clamp and guillotine gate and is roadworthy, allowing for easy transport of kraal sides. Both units can accommodate up to eight kraal sides inside the trailer, enhancing versatility in farming operations.
Constructed from robust steel, the Cattle Crate includes sliding gates for efficient livestock handling and can be transformed into a weighing system when combined with the LS4 scale. The Cattle Working Crate features side panels for easy access to animals for tasks like branding. It also includes a neck clamp and sliding gate, and it is compatible with the LS4 scale for livestock weighing.
For sheep, Tal-Tec provides the Sheep Loadbar Crate, a mobile and lightweight unit equipped with butterfly doors and a convenient handle. Measuring 1.25 m long and 0.5 m wide, this crate efficiently weighs sheep using the LS4 scale. Additionally, the Work and Load Trailer serves as both a working crate and a scale when lowered to the ground, and it can function as a loading ramp when raised, simplifying the process of loading animals onto trucks. Each of these mobile units boosts farm productivity by integrating ease of use, mobility, and precise weighing capabilities.
