Understanding Industrial Equipment

Water troughs are a common and convenient tool for providing livestock and other animals with drinking water.  They also serve as excellent water reservoirs, coming in handy for various uses when other sources run dry.

For a water trough to be useful, it needs to be made of a durable and quality material that is less prone to leaking, stains and other forms of damage. Here are some of the most commonly used materials for manufacturing water troughs.

Steel

Steel has been used to manufacture water troughs for many years. In particular, galvanised steel (the coating of the material with a zinc layer that prevents corrosion) is a popular option due to its durability, sturdiness and convenient design. Steel water troughs come in multiple shapes and sizes, including circular and rectangular troughs, as well as hanging feed troughs.

Because steel is still prone to rust and corrosion over a period of time, the inside surface of the water trough can be lined with a material such as polyethylene to prevent the water from having a metallic taste.

Fibreglass

For those who prefer lighter and thinner water troughs, fibreglass is a popular option. Fibreglass is light and makes it convenient for the trough to be installed in many different locations.

Ultimately, the quality of a fibreglass trough will depend on the manufacturer. It is important to look closely at how the trough was made in order to avoid purchasing brittle troughs that can be prone to cracking.

Concrete

Concrete water troughs are incredibly durable and sturdy. They are an excellent option for those who prefer to install a permanent structure that will not be easily tampered with. They can also withstand the wear and tear of animals that may trample on the water trough during use.

The downside of concrete troughs is the difficulty in shaping them and the cost of repairing cracks and breaks. For as long as the trough is in good condition, its functionality is excellent. You will have to prepare yourself for repairs in the event of damage to the concrete.

Polyethylene

To merge the benefits of convenience and durability, polyethylene is an excellent material for manufacturing water troughs. It is a strong, lightweight and easily shaped for multiple purposes. You can even access a wide variety of colours for your water troughs if aesthetic appeal is a concern.

Whether you're using floor standing troughs, tyre feeds or even drinking bowls, polyethylene offers a convenient and flexible material for satisfying your watering needs.