For this dirty job, you need the right manure handling equipment.
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Manure handling is one of those jobs that’s a necessary evil for any livestock operation. Having the right equipment to handle the job makes all the difference. Whatever your needs, there’s a Houle manure tank for that.
The kind of manure tank you need will vary depending on several factors, including:
- Ratio of solids vs. liquids
- Size of the livestock operation
- Destination of the manure
- How far and how high the manure needs to be pumped
Houle makes a wide range of manure tanks, manure pumps and other manure handing equipment. We’ll touch on some of the Houle manure pumps we carry here at High Tech Equipment so you can decide which one could benefit your farm the most.
Irrigation Pumps
Irrigation pumps transfer manure over long distances from the reception pit to the main storage area and come in both stationary and mobile models for use on a trailer. These versatile machines can also be used to feed a drag hose system or an irrigation system.
Maxi Pumps
These high capacity centrifugal pumps are best for transferring water, hog slurry, or very liquid manure to wherever you’re storing it. Maxi pumps have a 3-point hitch with adjustable legs for easy transport. When paired with a side mount agitator kit, you can agitate or pump manure to and from a tall vertical reservoir.
Maxi pumps can also work with a port hole agitator for pit pumping or can be used for a solid manure platform to quicken loading time.
PTO Pumps
These come in 3 different varieties.
- Articulated PTO Pump – Far reaching with a solid build and 3-point hitch, these pumps mix and pump manure from concrete pits or lagoons with steep slopes. There are a few different kinds to choose from depending on your operation. Wired and wireless remote-control options are available.
- Lagoon PTO Pump – Used to homogenize and transfer liquid dairy manure or hog slurry containing minimal bedding. Come in several sizes with sturdy trailers to provide excellent reach in large lagoons.
- Vertical PTO Pump – Best for transfer and agitation of liquid dairy or hog slurry in tall concrete reservoirs.
Vertical Electric Pumps
Vertical manure pumps are best for transferring hog or dairy manure from a reception pit to the main storage area when there’s high head pressure. Some can pump a relatively long distance. Others can be mounted on a pontoon. Some also have a belt drive option for farms on 50 Hz power.
Electric Pumps on a Pontoon
Pontoon pumps transfer surface liquid for flushing tanks or to feed low-pressure irrigation systems. They allow pumping or agitation from anywhere within a wide pond or lagoon. A low-profile design provides stability during windy conditions. No seals or bearings are submerged. An anti-slip galvanized steel deck provides easy maintenance access.
How to handle cow manure safely
Though manure pumping is usually done only a couple times per year, it has the potential to be dangerous if not done properly. Manure gases are the biggest risk. When agitating manure that’s been sitting a while, dangerous levels of hydrogen sulfide and methane may be released. These gases are toxic and very flammable.
Remember these tips:
- Evacuate – When agitating or pumping from under the barn floor, evacuate everyone from the building. If you can, also remove the animals.
- Extinguish – To prevent flash fires or explosions, remove flammable materials from the area. Cut off power to any equipment besides that used for ventilation. Extinguish pilot lights and prohibit smoking.
- Signage – Make sure clear warning signs are posted at entrances to storage areas and buildings while agitating or pumping manure. Educate family and coworkers to watch for those signs and be aware of the dangers.
- Ventilate – Pay attention to wind conditions around outdoor manure storage. Ensure your barn has the proper ventilation systems for the type of barn, temperature, and weather conditions.
What are your manure handling needs?
Whether you have a dairy, hog, or other livestock operation, High Tech Equipment has the right Houle manure handling products for your needs. Browse our inventory for high-quality new and used alley cleaners, pumps, agitators, separators, spreaders, and more. Or call us, and we’ll help you find the right machines to handle the job.
