Finding the right pig feeder isn’t just about size — it’s also about choosing materials that fit your farm’s specific needs.
To select the best pig feeder for your operation, compare the pros and cons of both stainless steel and plastic feeder materials. We highlight the benefits and drawbacks of each to help you determine which material makes sense for your farm’s budget, maintenance routine, and durability requirements.
Stainless Steel Pig Feeders
Known for their sturdiness, stainless steel feeders can handle the demands of pig farming, but they often come with a higher price tag. These are among the pros and cons you’ll need to consider when shopping for feeders.
The advantages of stainless steel feeders include the following.
- Better durability and strength: Stainless steel pig feeders are good at withstanding potential damage caused by destructive pig behavior such as chewing and biting. They are also not susceptible to corrosion, making them a good option when rust is a concern.
- More hygienic: Stainless steel is easy to sanitize, which helps keep bacteria in check and can reduce the risk of disease in your pigs.
- Longer lifespan: Stainless steel feeders can last longer than some plastic feeders saving money in the long run.
The disadvantages of stainless steel feeders include the following.
- Higher cost: Stainless steel feeders usually require a higher upfront investment, but they can deliver long-term value. Farms on a budget need to weigh the initial cost against the likelihood that they may have fewer replacement costs over time.
- Heavy and less portable: Due to their weight, stainless steel feeders are harder to install and move, making them better suited for larger farms with the equipment and personnel to position them properly.
- Use of cheap metal: Not all stainless steel is the same and not all are made the same. Some manufacturers use a low-grade stainless steel and have inadequate welds on seams which can require added maintenance and upkeep.
- Hard to clean: While stainless steel is hygienic owing to its non-porous surface, sharp corners and seams are difficult to clean. Additionally, these spaces often build up with spoiled and stale feed which can affect an animal’s appetite.
Note: Other metals do not share these same advantages and disadvantages. For example, some metals may be more prone to rust. So, pay attention to the material specs of any feeder you’re considering.
Plastic Pig Feeders
Plastic feeders are typically less expensive than their stainless steel counterparts, making them a popular choice. But, because they sometimes don’t last as long, consider your short- and long-term budget when comparing feeders.
The advantages of plastic feeders include the following.
- Budget-friendly: Plastic pig feeders cost less, which can be appealing to smaller farms or operations with limited budgets.
- Lightweight and easy to handle: Because plastic feeders aren’t as heavy as stainless steel feeders, they’re easy to move and reposition as needed.
- Flexible design options: Plastic feeders come in various shapes and sizes to suit pigs of all ages and accommodate different types of feed.
The disadvantages of plastic feeders include the following.
- Less durable: Some plastics quickly show wear and tear when exposed to corrosive gases and the active livestock environments found on pig farms.
- Higher chewing risk: Pigs are more likely to chew on lower-grade plastics, which can damage the equipment and lead to risk of ingestion.
Stainless Steel vs. Plastic Feeders: A Quick Comparison
Which features are most important to your operation? The following table shows a side-by-side comparison of these pros and cons to help as you evaluate the options.
|
Feature |
Stainless Steel Feeders |
Plastic Feeders |
|
Cost |
Moderate to High |
Low to Moderate |
|
Durability |
Excellent |
Moderate |
|
Lifespan |
Longer |
Shorter |
|
Weight |
Heavy |
Light |
|
Chewing Risk |
Low |
Deciding between stainless steel and plastic feeders comes down to what matters most for your farm — whether that’s upfront savings, durability, or ease of maintenance. Consider your operation’s budget, environmental conditions, maintenance schedule, and desired lifespan for the feeder. Weighing these factors will help determine the best option for your operation.
Other Materials
Some feeders are constructed with a combination of metal and plastic parts, incorporating high-quality materials such as fiberglass-reinforced composites. Such alternatives, like Osborne’s Big Wheel Feeders, can provide the best of both worlds — durability where it counts with cost-savings benefits. The round trough of the Big Wheel is self-cleaning and has no sharp corners or crevices for feed to build up and spoil. They take up less floor space than traditional feeders, while accommodating similar numbers of animals, so barn space can be better utilized. Discover the Big Wheel difference by browsing our feeder models and finding the right one for your operation.
