Electric fences are commonly used to contain livestock and keep them safe from predators, but over time, the wires can become tense and in need of adjustment. One crucial component of an electric fence system is the wire strainer, which is responsible for keeping the wires tight and secure. However, there may be instances where the tension needs to be released, whether it be for maintenance purposes or to replace a broken wire. De-tensioning an electric fence wire strainer is a critical skill that every livestock owner or fence installer should possess. It requires careful consideration of safety precautions and a systematic approach to prevent any unnecessary damage or harm.
What Equipment Is Used for Pulling a Wire Fence Tight?
De-tensioning an electric fence wire strainer requires the use of specific equipment designed to effectively pull the wire tight. One such tool is a fence stretcher bar. This specialized equipment utilizes steel bars and bolts to securely clamp down on the horizontal wires of various woven fence styles. By applying pressure evenly across the mesh, the fence stretcher bar ensures that the wire is pulled taut and free from any slack.
To achieve even greater tension, a wire stretcher can be used in conjunction with a come along. A come along is a mechanical device that utilizes a ratcheting system to apply force and tighten the wire.
When using a fence stretcher bar and come along, it’s important to follow proper safety procedures. This includes wearing protective gear such as gloves and goggles to prevent injury. Additionally, be sure to inspect the equipment before each use to ensure it’s in proper working condition.
As you begin the de-tensioning process, start by identifying the wire strainer attached to the fence. This is typically a metal device that tightens the wire and holds it in place. Use a wrench or pliers to loosen the wire strainer, gradually relieving the tension on the wire.
Remember to exercise caution and follow safety protocols throughout the de-tensioning process to avoid any accidents or injuries.
When it comes to installing a fence, the depth at which straining posts are dug in plays a crucial role in providing stability and support. To ensure optimal strength, it’s recommended to dig the straining posts to a depth of at least 90cm. These posts should be firmly rammed into the ground and positioned in a straight line along the fence. In cases where the fence changes direction, such as on acute corners, it’s advisable to use two struts per post for added reinforcement. However, on acute corners with an angle of under 90 degrees, a single strut bisecting the angle of turn can suffice. Properly following these guidelines will contribute to the overall durability of your fence.
How Deep Should a Fence Strainer Be?
When it comes to installing a fence strainer, it’s important to consider the depth at which it should be buried. Generally, straining posts should be dug into the ground to a depth of at least 90cm. This depth ensures that the post is securely anchored and provides stability to the fence line.
To properly install a strainer post, it’s essential to ram it into the ground. Ramming the post involves using force to drive it into the soil and create a solid foundation. This process guarantees that the post won’t easily shift or loosen over time, even in adverse weather conditions.
In areas where the soil may not provide sufficient firmness, the use of stones can be employed. By placing stones around the post during installation, additional stability can be achieved, preventing any leaning or shifting of the strainer.
To reinforce the strainer post further, it’s recommended to use struts. The number of struts per post depends on the changes in direction along the fence line. Generally, two struts should be used per post, except for acute corners that are under 90 degrees. In such cases, a single strut bisecting the angle of turn may be used, providing adequate support to the fence.
By following these guidelines for installing a fence strainer, you can ensure that your fence line is properly supported and able to withstand tension. The depth of the post, alongside proper ramming and firming techniques, creates a sturdy base. Additionally, adding struts at appropriate intervals adds further reinforcement, particularly in areas with changes in direction.
Using an electric fence tester is a straightforward process that requires a few simple steps. Firstly, if there’s no ground wire, you can touch the metal tip of the probe into the soil near the fence. It’s important to keep the metal tip of the probe either connected to the ground wire or directly to the ground. Simultaneously, hold the metal prong on the end of the voltmeter to a charged wire. The digital screen on the voltmeter will display the voltage, providing you with accurate information about your electric fence.
How Do I Use an Electric Fence Tester?
When it comes to using an electric fence tester, there are a few important steps to follow in order to ensure accurate readings and safe operation. First and foremost, it’s crucial to identify whether there’s a ground wire present in the fence setup. This ground wire acts as the reference point for the tester and provides a baseline for voltage measurements. If there’s a ground wire, simply touch the metal tip of the probe into the soil near the fence, making sure it’s making good contact.
In cases where there’s no ground wire, the tester must be used slightly differently. In this scenario, the metal tip of the probe should be kept in contact with the ground itself, whether it’s the soil or any conductive material that’s directly connected to the earth. Maintaining this contact is essential for accurate voltage readings. Once the probe is properly grounded, the next step is to hold the metal prong on the end of the voltmeter to a charged wire.
This connection between the voltmeter and the charged wire completes the circuit and allows for voltage measurement. The digital screen on the voltmeter will then display the voltage reading, which indicates the strength of the electric charge flowing through the fence. It’s important to note that electric fences typically operate at high voltages to deter animals, so caution should be exercised when using the tester.
This includes wearing appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, and avoiding contact with the wire itself during testing.
Source: How to Test an Electric Fence: 6 Easy Ways
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Conclusion
It’s crucial to understand the potential hazards associated with high tension in electric fences and to prioritize safety throughout the process. Regular maintenance and inspection of the fence, along with proactive de-tensioning when necessary, will help maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the electric fence system.