Electric netting

Electric netting, or electric fencing, is a barrier system that uses electricity to deter animals from crossing the fence line. This system consists of woven wire or mesh material interspersed with electrified strands. The electric netting delivers a mild but startling shock to animals that touch it, effectively training them to stay away. It's often used for livestock containment, protecting crops from wildlife, and security for gardens and homes. Electric netting is popular because it's less expensive and easier to install than traditional fencing. It can also be moved quickly, making it great for rotational grazing and temporary enclosures.

Types of electric nettings

Various kinds of electric nettings are available to meet diverse needs and situations. The key categories are as follows:

• Electric animal fencing

  Electric animal fences are usually used to keep farm animals contained and safe. These fences can be used for different animals, including cows, sheep, goats, and pigs. Electric animal fencing comes in various sizes and heights to accommodate different species and their containment needs. Some popular options include electric sheep fencing, which is designed specifically for containing sheep and other smaller livestock.

• Electric garden fence

  The electric garden fence, also known as an electric fence for gardens, is designed for use in gardens, yards, and other residential settings. These fences help protect plants and landscaping from animals such as deer, rabbits, and raccoons. Garden electric fences are usually shorter than livestock fences and have smaller mesh openings to prevent smaller animals from entering.

• Electric poultry netting

  Electric poultry netting is another popular option for farms and homesteads. This netting is specifically made for containing chickens, ducks, and turkeys. Electric poultry netting provides a safe enclosure for birds, preventing them from wandering off and protecting them from predators. It can be used in conjunction with chicken coops, free-range areas, and poultry pens.

• Temporary electric fencing

  Temporary electric fencing is a convenient, short-term solution for various applications. It's often used for rotational grazing, temporary enclosures, event fencing, and construction site security. These fences are usually lightweight and easy to set up and take down. They can be made from different materials, such as plastic, metal, or composite.

Design of electric netting

Electric netting is designed to be effective and user-friendly. It comes in various dimensions and sizes to fit different fencing needs. The design includes a mesh pattern made of conductive materials like galvanized steel or stainless steel. These materials are chosen for their strength and ability to conduct electricity. The mesh is usually treated to resist rust and weather damage, ensuring a long-lasting fence.

• Materials

  Electric netting is made from a mix of strong materials for good conductivity and durability. The wires are usually made from galvanized steel or stainless steel because they are robust and resist corrosion. These materials conduct electricity well. The mesh fabric is treated with coatings to prevent rusting and damage from weather. This treatment helps the netting last longer outside.

• Mesh Design

  The mesh design of electric fencing includes vertical and horizontal strands formed into a grid pattern. This grid creates small openings that keep animals or people inside or outside an area. The spacing between the wires can vary depending on what the fence is for, with tighter spacing near the bottom to contain smaller animals. The fence posts are often attached to the mesh at regular intervals to maintain tension and support the structure.

• Post and Tension System

  The electric netting is supported by vertical posts spaced along the perimeter. These posts are typically made from durable materials such as galvanized steel, PVC, or wood and are driven into the ground to provide stability. The tensioning system ensures the mesh is taut, preventing sagging or bowing, which could weaken the barrier. Tension wires or straps are used, along with adjustable post anchors, to maintain the netting's shape.

• Electrical Components

  Each strand of the electric netting carries a charge from an energizer via connecting insulators or clips. The voltage can be adjusted based on what the fence is used for, with higher voltages for larger animals that need more deterrence. Insulators are placed along the posts to keep the electric current from grounding through the metal supports. Gateways or openings integrate special devices to allow safe passage while maintaining the fence's electrification.

Scenarios for electric netting

• Personal Property Protection:

  Install electric fencing around homes and personal properties to keep out large animals and potential human intruders. This is very useful for homes in rural areas.

• Protecting Gardens and Orchards:

  Use electric netting to surround gardens and orchards. This will keep out rabbits, deer, and other animals that destroy plants and crops.

• Creating Wildlife Reserves:

  In wildlife reserves, use electric fencing to separate different species. This helps control animal movement and protect endangered species.

• Containment in Zoos:

  Electric netting is used in zoos to keep animals in their areas. It keeps animals safe and visitors from harm.

• Fish Farming:

  Use electric nets in fish farms to keep fish in and predators out of the water.

• Construction Sites:

  On construction sites, use electric netting to secure dangerous areas, such as holes or around large machines. This can help prevent accidents.

• Event Management:

  Use electric netting to manage crowds and secure areas during events or concerts. This can help keep people safe and control access to certain areas.

• Temporary Secure Areas:

  When needed, electric netting can be used to create temporary secure areas for various purposes, such as securing a construction site or enclosing a work area.

• Research Facilities:

  In research facilities, electric netting can be used to contain animals for behavioral studies. This allows for controlled observation without external interference.

• Disaster Management:

  During certain disasters, electric netting can be used to contain animals and prevent them from wandering into human-populated areas. This can help reduce human-animal conflict.

How to choose an electric netting

• Purpose of the Electric Netting

  Determine the primary use of the electric netting. Is it for keeping animals in, keeping wildlife out, or both? This will guide the selection process. For instance, if the netting is for livestock containment, choose one that offers a secure barrier. If it's for gardens or crops, opt for a netting that protects without harming animals.

• Material and Durability

  Select a netting made from durable materials like polyethylene or nylon. These materials can withstand weather elements and provide long-lasting use. Also, consider the gauge or thickness of the material. A thicker gauge may be necessary for areas with rougher animal behavior.

• Voltage and Power Source

  Check the voltage level of the electric netting. Ensure it is suitable for the intended animals or purpose. Higher voltages are typically needed for larger animals. Electric netting can be powered by batteries, solar panels, or AC power. Choose a power source that is convenient and easily accessible for the installation site.

• Ease of Installation

  Look for electric netting that is easy to install, with clear instructions and necessary accessories included. Consider whether the netting can be easily moved or adjusted, especially if it will be used in different locations or for rotational grazing.

• Safety Features

  Select electric netting with safety features such as non-conductive materials to prevent accidental shocks to people and non-target animals. Also, look for features like tensioning systems and grounding rods to ensure proper installation and minimize the risk of accidents.

• Visibility

  Choose a netting with high visibility, such as bright colors or reflective elements. This helps to ensure that animals can see the fence and reduces the risk of accidental collisions.

• Weather Resistance

  Consider the climate and weather conditions of the installation site. Select electric netting that can withstand local weather conditions, such as UV protection for sunny areas or corrosion resistance for humid or coastal areas.

• Cost and Warranty

  Compare the costs of different electric netting options. Consider the features and quality, not just the price. Also, check the warranty period offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty may indicate better quality and durability.

Q&A

Q1: How does electric netting work?

A1: Electric netting works by creating a psychological barrier to animals. When an animal comes into contact with the netting, it completes an electrical circuit and receives a mild shock. This shock encourages them not to breach the fence.

Q2: What are the applications of electric netting?

A2: Electric netting is used for various applications, including livestock containment, wildlife control, garden protection, and temporary fencing for construction sites.

Q3: Is electric netting easy to install?

A3: Yes, electric netting is designed for easy installation. It is lightweight, and panels can be quickly assembled and disassembled as needed. Many designs also come with step-by-step installation guides to make the process even easier.

Q4: How do people power electric netting?

A4: Electric netting can be powered by various energizers, including solar, battery, and AC-powered units. Solar energizers are particularly popular for remote installations or areas with limited access to electricity.

Q5: Is electric netting safe?

A5: Electric netting is designed to deliver a mild, non-lethal shock that deters animals without causing them harm. It is important to set the voltage and design the system properly to ensure safety for both animals and people.