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January / February, 2003
Construction Strategies for Minimizing Stray Voltage on Dairy Farms
The potential for stray voltage to affect livestock can be greatly reduced by proper wiring practices. The electrical system needs to be an integral part of the building and equipment plan. Consideration of future equipment needs can minimize future problems and expense. Undersized or overloaded circuits can lead to elevated NEV levels and increase the potential for stray voltage.
Of greater concern than stray voltage is proper wiring for safety of both animals and workers. The cost of wiring and electrical equipment is less than 10% of construction costs for most agricultural buildings. This is not a place to cut corners on building projects. Inferior or improperly installed equipment is a safety concern for both animals and workers. Because of the corrosive and harsh environment in cattle housing and milking parlors, using approved weatherproof fixtures (2002 NEC 547.5 (C)) and using approved conductors and/or conduit increase both the life and reliability of the electrical system on farms. Allowances should be made to protect wiring and fixtures from damage caused by animals and equipment. Only properly trained and qualified personnel should install electrical equipment or wiring on farms. Care should be taken to be sure that equipment grounds are properly installed so that in case of an electrical fault, there is a direct path through the equipment ground back to the transformer. It is important that neutrals are properly bonded and that the neutral and equipment ground are bonded in the main service panel or disconnect.
Proper installation of electric fences and equipotential planes can reduce the potential for problems related to stray voltage. 4-wire electrical systems, balancing 120 volt loads and proper wire sizing can reduce the potential for problems with stray voltage. Selecting equipment that does not use the neutral wire as a current carrying conductor can also reduce the potential for problems with stray voltage.
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January 30, 2003
