Replacement

Every year livestock are killed or injured due to the failure of old or deficient slats. Under current regulations slats have a design life of 20 years, but their lifespan can vary greatly depending on use, load and manufacturer.

Deep or wide cracks allow the sulphates from the slurry to attack the slat and corrode the steel inside causing failure. Farmers must check their slats every year to ensure their own safety and that of their cattle.

Fig. 1

Fig.1. Top-side of 20-year slat showing minor damage

Fig. 2

This is the underside of the same slat as seen in image Fig.1. and the extensive damage can now been seen

How to check your slats

The ideal time to check your slats is when the cattle have been turned out.

Slats should be washed down so cracked & damaged slats can be identified.

Carry out a simple straight edge test to check for deflection.

Another tell-tale sign is concrete in slurry or in fields after slurry has been spread.

Slats may seem to be in good repair on the top but there might be deep or wide cracks on the underside.

Check slurry agitation manholes for damage, wear & tear too.

If slurry has been allowed to build up to the underside of slats their lifespan will be significantly reduced as both the concrete and reinforcing steel will have corroded.

When in doubt replace slats.

Take proper care

Never drive over slats with tractors or machinery unless they have been specifically designed to carry those loads.

Clean down slats every year and make sure that they have a good drop-off with smooth sides to minimise blockages.

Replacing slats

The best time to replace exiting slats is when cattle have been turned out.

For safety reasons tanks must be empty before slats can be replaced.

We have specialist equipment which helps us to get into tight spots!

Each shed is different so access to site needs to be assessed by one of our team prior to replacement. Call our team today to book in a free assessment/inspection.

Replacement

How to check your slats

The ideal time to check your slats is when the cattle have been turned out.

Slats should be washed down so cracked & damaged slats can be identified.

Carry out a simple straight edge test to check for deflection.

Another tell-tale sign is concrete in slurry or in fields after slurry has been spread.

Slats may seem to be in good repair on the top but there might be deep or wide cracks on the underside.

Check slurry agitation manholes for damage, wear & tear too.

If slurry has been allowed to build up to the underside of slats their lifespan will be significantly reduced as both the concrete and reinforcing steel will have corroded.

When in doubt replace slats.

Take proper care

Replacing slats

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