Stock troughs are most commonly made from concrete or
polyethylene. Galvanised steel, fibreglass, fibro cement and
stainless steel troughs also available. Home made troughs
using steel and or concrete (typically old pipe) are also
common. Round and rectangular troughs are typically
available. Larger round troughs are more stable and are more
suitable for cattle. Rectangular troughs are usually made in
sections and sit on pedestals, but are prone to leaks and/or
overflowing if the soil underneath erodes.
Trough size will depend on the stock numbers. Size should be
large enough to fit stock around its perimeter. Over sizing may
cause water to become stagnant and unpalatable and may result in
algal growths. Sheep troughs usually sit 300mm high and
cattle troughs 500mm high. Combination troughs of 400mm in
height are available to suit both sheep and cattle.
Concrete troughs are the most common type of trough
Polyethylene troughs are lightweight and easily moved and
relocated
Trough basses
A concrete apron under and around troughs is desirable to prevent
erosion of soil around the trough, potentially causing troughs to
spill or leak. A base will also provide a more hygienic
environment for stock whilst watering.
Trough float valves
A wide range of float valves for stock troughs are available on the
market. There are different float valves for different supply
pressure available and the correct valve for operating pressures
should be chosen. Usually float valves in troughs should be
designed for low pressure as a high pressure float valve can
restrict flow and is more likely to stick. Large floats
provide good water cut off and reduce float bounce, which can
reduce the life of the trough and cause spillage.
Maintenance
Troughs will need periodic cleaning to remove algal growths, dust,
dung, vermin etc. Shade structures can be placed over troughs
to reduce sunlight and thus algal growths, reducing evaporation and
keeping water temperature cooler. Shade structures should not
encourage stock to camp around the trough. Float valve and
inlet pipe work also require periodic maintenance including
cleaning of built up scale and repair damage caused by stock.
Trough condition and operation in remote areas can be viewed
through video telemetry.
Further information on troughs available in Review of Water Reticulation Equipment for
Rangelands pastoral Applications Review compiled by Ralph
William UniSA
(information on this page extracted from review)
Project Partners:
Dinocrete Pty Ltd is one of the north's leading manufacturers of
quality concrete water troughs. Situated in Hughenden, north-west
Qld, Dinocrete makes a large range of troughs to suit the needs of
both cattle and sheep producers.
Stokcrete precast Concrete Water tanks can be manufactured and
distributed through-out Australia ( AUS ) in all states
including South Australia ( SA ), Victoria ( VIC ), New South Wales
( NSW ), Tasmania ( TAS ), Queensland ( QLD ) and the Northern
Territory ( NT ).
Why select precast concrete water tanks?
Here are just some of the benefits concrete tanks have over other
tanks:
- They are environmentally friendly
- No problems with algae, mosquitoes or
other insects
- Concrete tanks are strong, reliable and
bushfire proof
- The water is always cool, clear and good
to drink
