Production manuals published by primary breeders stress the need to achieve uniformity in the growth and development of both cockerels and pullets to attain genetic potential. This is achieved in part by ensuring even and rapid distribution of feed for both sexes during rearing and subsequently after the onset of production.
The Big Dutchman DuoChain system was developed to satisfy the feed intake requirements of breeder flocks and to optimize floor area by saving space.
In response to original customer requests for a single-length chain feeder system for cockerels, Big Dutchman engineers designed a chain feeding system that compresses a complete circuit into a single trough. This allows simultaneous transport of feed in both directions.
After successful field testing, the application of the DuoChain principle was extended to flocks of rearing pullets, mature hens, and cockerels. By combining the proven efficiency and durability of the Challenger feed chain with an innovative drive system, compatible corners, and a divided trough, it was possible to feed flocks within a short period. The DuoChain system eliminates competition and selective eating, resulting in uniform body weight, organ development, and maturity during rearing and even feed intake during production.
Each trough is 4.8 inches in width and 2.5 inches in depth from the inward curved lips to the base. The parallel chains moving in opposite directions are located within the trough with a shallow longitudinal partition. The feed hopper is placed either at the front or centrally along the line. Each unit can accommodate a house length of 500 ft. Separate grills are provided for the exclusion of males from the female trough or with suitably spaced “toast rack” grills to exclude females from the male feeder line.
|
Chains run in both directions for fast
and space-saving feed distribution
|
Single Ttrough chain loop
with center divider
|
 |
With a single-phase power supply chain, speeds of 60, 90, 100, or 120 feet per minute can be selected depending on house configuration. With a three-phase supply, variable speed control is optional.
Since the DuoChain installation comprises a single line, it can be installed in existing houses to increase feeding space or as a retrofit to provide separate male feeding that is considered essential for modern broiler breeds.
Advantages of the DuoChain system include:
- Either a suspended or standing installation is available. In the U.S., most systems are suspended with height adjusted by a winch
- Selecting a range of chain speeds to suit flock size and house layout
- Adjustment of height to accommodate the growth of cockerels and pullets
- Rapid feed distribution is achieved to prevent both skip-a-day and restricted daily issues
- Chain feeding promotes natural wear of the upper and lower beaks
- The open trough allows for ease of cleaning and prevents the accumulation of stale feed that may contribute to mycotoxicosis
- Visualization of the flock is facilitated by the uniform positioning of both cockerels and pullets during feeding throughout the rearing phase and then in laying houses after transfer
Following breeder recommendations for feeding space (2 inches per bird through 35 days and 6 inches for up to 105 days), DuoChain feeders will contribute to uniformity irrespective of whether a grading program is used to achieve low flock CV% values.