PigTek Connections January 2025: Your Source for Swine Industry Advances

PigTek Connections January 2025: Your Source for Swine Industry Advances

Published: Jan 07, 2025


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Core Report - Dealer Spotlight


PigTek Dealer Spotlight: PALS USA – A Legacy of Excellence and Service

For over five decades, PALS USA has been a cornerstone of the agricultural community, delivering high-quality products and services to swine and poultry producers. Established in 1970 by the Willmar Poultry Company (WPC), PALS began as a solution for turkey growers seeking reliable equipment, medications, and barn supplies. Over the years, PALS expanded into the swine business, growing into a trusted provider of hog and poultry equipment, animal health products, and technical services across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Wisconsin.


What Makes PALS USA Unique

At PALS, service is more than a promise—it’s a legacy. With over 35 employees and a robust technical department, the company offers a comprehensive range of products for multiple species, with swine as their primary focus.


“Our mission is simple but powerful: ‘Through our agricultural expertise, PALS provides quality products and services that improve our customers’ productivity and profitability,’” says Jason Reed of PALS USA. “We pride ourselves on being a full-service provider, offering everything our customers need in one place. Whether it’s equipment, animal health supplies, or technical support, we’re here to deliver.”


The company’s core values—Service, Employee Wellbeing, Integrity, Quality, and Dependability—are the foundation of its success, enabling PALS to build lasting relationships with producers throughout the Upper Midwest.


A Partnership Built on Trust: PALS USA and PigTek

PALS USA’s long-standing partnership with PigTek is a testament to the value of collaboration in agriculture. Even before PigTek was officially formed, PALS relied on Chore-Time equipment to meet the needs of local barns. Today, PigTek is one of PALS’ top vendors, providing reliable equipment that aligns with the specifications of many regional producers.


“Our relationship with PigTek has been a key part of our success,” Reed explains. “Many producers in our area choose PigTek equipment because of its quality and compatibility with their barn designs. This has led to strong repeat business and trust in our ability to deliver.”


Local dealers like PALS play a vital role in agriculture by offering easier access to inventory, technical expertise, and cost-saving solutions. Reed emphasizes, “Our logistical reach and variety of equipment and services allow us to meet customer needs in a way that’s both efficient and dependable.”


A Landmark Achievement

One of PALS USA’s proudest accomplishments was equipping a massive 7,000-head sow multiplier, constructed entirely of concrete, with PigTek equipment. The project, the largest in the company’s history, took over a year to complete.

“This project was a milestone for us,” says Reed. “It showcased our ability to handle large-scale operations while maintaining the quality and dependability our customers expect.”


The scale of the project is staggering—it required two and a half times more concrete than Minnesota’s US Bank Stadium or Target Field. Incredibly, within five years of completion, 20% of the world’s pig population could trace their ancestry to this site.


Looking to the Future

As PALS USA continues to expand its reach, its focus remains on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With strong partnerships like the one with PigTek, PALS is well-positioned to remain a leader in agricultural excellence.



For more information on PALS USA and their extensive product and service offerings, visit PALS USA or contact their team of experts. https://palsusa.com/

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“At PALS USA, we’re not just serving producers—we’re building a legacy of excellence in agriculture.” – Jason Reed, PALS USA

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Chris Elvidge Commentary



The Evolution of Swine Ventilation Technology: Advancing Health and Productivity By Chris Elvidge, PigTek


Ventilation systems in swine production have come a long way from basic airflow management to sophisticated technologies that play a crucial role in optimizing swine health, productivity, and overall barn efficiency. As demands on producers increase due to environmental regulations, animal welfare expectations, and economic pressures, advancements in ventilation technology have become indispensable for modern operations.

A Historical Perspective

Traditionally, swine barns relied on natural ventilation or simple mechanical systems to regulate airflow. These methods were often inconsistent, leaving producers to battle seasonal challenges such as extreme heat, cold, or humidity. While functional, these systems lacked the precision required to maintain the optimal environment pigs need for growth and health.

Over time, the industry recognized the need for more efficient solutions, sparking innovation in automated systems and intelligent controls. Early systems addressed temperature regulation, but today’s technology goes far beyond mere climate control.

Modern Ventilation: A Game-Changer

Modern swine ventilation systems integrate sensors, automation, and data analytics to create a dynamic environment tailored to the needs of the animals. These systems adjust temperature, humidity, and air quality in real time, ensuring a consistent and comfortable environment regardless of external conditions.

Key features of today’s ventilation systems include:

• Automated Controls: Systems that automatically adjust based on barn conditions, reducing the need for manual intervention.

• Air Quality Monitoring: Sensors that track ammonia, CO2, and other harmful gases, triggering adjustments to improve air quality.

• Zoned Ventilation: The ability to customize airflow for different areas of the barn, accommodating the needs of pigs at various stages of growth.

• Energy Efficiency: Advances in fan design and heat recovery systems that minimize energy use while maximizing performance.

Impact on Swine Health and Productivity

The direct benefits of modern ventilation systems are evident in the health and productivity of pigs. Proper ventilation reduces the risks of respiratory diseases caused by poor air quality, such as ammonia buildup. It also minimizes heat stress, which can significantly impact feed conversion and growth rates.

Moreover, a well-ventilated barn enhances worker conditions, reducing fatigue and promoting better management practices. Producers often see improved efficiency and lower operational costs, making advanced ventilation systems a sound investment.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

As we look to the future, the integration of smart technology and precision farming tools will continue to revolutionize swine ventilation. Predictive analytics, powered by AI, will allow systems to anticipate environmental changes and adapt proactively. Remote monitoring and control will become standard, giving producers greater flexibility and control over their operations.

At PigTek, we are committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, we help producers create environments where pigs can thrive, productivity can increase, and operations can become more sustainable.

Conclusion

The evolution of swine ventilation technology highlights the industry’s dedication to improving animal welfare, producer profitability, and environmental sustainability. With continuous advancements, producers have access to tools that not only meet today’s challenges but also prepare them for the demands of the future.

For more information on PigTek’s ventilation solutions, visit www.pigtek.net.

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Chris Elvidge is a swine industry expert with PigTek, specializing in advanced agricultural solutions that enhance animal welfare and operational efficiency.



Winter Maintenance Tips


1. Check Thermostat Calibration

Ensure thermostats are calibrated accurately to maintain proper temperatures.

2. Review Winter Ventilation Set Points

Confirm the set points on your winter ventilation speeds to maintain optimal airflow.

3. Adjust Inlets for Minimal Ventilation

Set inlets correctly to accommodate minimal ventilation requirements.

4. Inspect Fan Line Seals

Check seals around incoming fan lines to prevent drafts and maintain insulation.

5. Seal and Insulate Cool Cell Pads

Protect cool cell pads by sealing and insulating to prevent freezing and energy loss.

6. Monitor Inlet Louvers

Verify that inlet louvers open at minimum fan speed for consistent air control.

7. Replace Damaged Door or Window Seals

Inspect and replace any door or window seals that show wear or damage.

8. Fill Cracks and Seal Unused Electrical Openings

Seal any cracks or unused electrical wiring openings to keep the barn draft-free.



Upcoming Events


PigTek is excited to showcase its cutting-edge solutions for swine production at upcoming industry events. As a leader in innovative swine management technologies, PigTek offers advanced ventilation systems, precision feeding solutions, and expert support designed to enhance animal welfare, productivity, and operational efficiency. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with the PigTek team, explore live demonstrations, and discover how their products are shaping the future of swine farming. Visit our booth to learn more about our commitment to delivering smarter, sustainable solutions that empower producers to succeed in today’s competitive market. See you there


Keystone Farm Show; York, PA; January 7-9, 2025 – Attending with Northeast Agri

 

South Dakota Pork Congress; Sioux Falls, SD; January 15 & 16, 2025 - Booth# 1008

 

Iowa Pork Congress; Des Moines, IA; January 22 & 23, 2025 – Booth# 801 -

 

Ohio Pork Congress; Lima, OH; February 4 & 5, 2025

 

Minnesota Pork Congress; Mankato, MO; February 11 & 12, 2025 – Booth# 2 -

 

Missouri Pork Expo; Osage Beach, MO; February 18 & 19, 2025

 

AASV; San Francisco, CA; March 1 – 4, 2025

 

Keystone Expo; Lebanon, PA; March 18, 2025 – Attending with Northeast Agri. 



Product Feature



CENTRO™ Control


The Centro Control by PigTek is an advanced monitoring and control system designed for swine operations. It enables producers to manage critical barn functions such as feeding, ventilation, and climate control remotely, using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. The system provides real-time data, customizable alerts, and actionable insights to optimize productivity and animal welfare. Its user-friendly interface and robust connectivity ensure precise control, streamlined management, and improved operational efficiency across swine facilities. Ideal for modern producers seeking to leverage technology for smarter, data-driven decision-making. For more information, click here








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