Save Energy in Your Pig Production

Feed supply refers to the process of providing raw materials, ingredients or compound feed to a production facility, such as a factory, plant, or livestock production. Ensuring a consistent and reliable feed supply is crucial for the smooth operation of any production facility and for the animal welfare in livestock production.

The Use of Capacitive Sensors In Feed Supply

One way to improve the efficiency of the feed supply process is through the use of capacitive sensors. Capacitive sensors are electronic devices that measure the capacity or amount of electrical charge stored in a material. They work by detecting changes in capacitance, which is the ability of a material to store an electrical charge.

There are many potential applications for capacitive sensors in the feed supply process. For example, they can be used to measure the level of raw materials in storage bins, silos or tanks. This can help to prevent shortages and ensure that production is not disrupted due to a lack of raw materials or compound feed.

Factors such as temperature, air quality, and overall barn stability shape how pigs behave, how efficiently they convert feed, and how vulnerable they are to disease. Modern production systems increasingly rely on real-time environmental monitoring to maintain these conditions, ensuring pigs live in a stable, predictable climate that supports their biological needs.

Why the Barn Matters for Growth

Pigs are highly sensitive to their surroundings. Even small fluctuations in temperature or air quality trigger stress responses which reduce feed intake, slow weight gain, and increase susceptibility to illness. A well-managed environment supports:

• Optimal feed conversion - Pigs use energy for growth instead of fighting heat or cold stress
• Stronger immune function - Stable conditions reduce respiratory challenges and pathogen pressure
• Better welfare - Comfortable pigs are calmer, more active, and show fewer stress-related behaviors
• Lower mortality and medication use - Healthy environments reduce disease outbreaks and treatment needs

These benefits translate directly into improved productivity and profitability for producers.

Key Environmental Factors That Influence Pig Growth

Temperature Stability

Continuous temperature monitoring helps producers maintain the ideal climate for each growth stage - from weaners to finishers.
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Air Quality and Ventilation

Air quality is one of the most overlooked drivers of pig health. High levels of ammonia, CO₂, dust, and humidity can damage the respiratory system and increase disease risk.
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Humidity Control

Humidity interacts with temperature influencing pig comfort. High humidity makes barns feel warmer, while low humidity increases dust levels in the air.
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Noise and Stress Reduction

Environmental stressors - such as sudden noises, drafts, or inconsistent lighting - can disrupt feeding patterns and increase aggression. A calm, predictable environment supports steady growth and reduces injuries.

Growing Need for Emission Control

Regulations on emissions are emmerging worldwide, creating an increasing demand for monitoring and documenting emissions - including ammonia emissions.

Robust Sensor for Air Cleaning

dol-sensors’ DOL 51 Ammonia Sensor for Air Cleaning is a specially designed, durable sensor for monitoring and documenting the cleanliness of exhaust air from, for example, livestock houses.

Reliable Operation in Harsh Conditions

The sensor is built to perform under extreme conditions with humidity levels of 95–100%. It delivers accurate ammonia measurements at concentrations up to 50 ppm, with negligible cross-sensitivity to other gases.