Reinforced feeder for livestock

摘要

A livestock feeder with improved corrosion resistance and collapse resistance is described. The feeder comprises a polymeric cylinder with an open top and an interior surface. The interior surface defines a hollow interior where feedstuffs can be placed. One or more feeding portals extend through the cylinder to provide livestock access to feedstuffs. The feeding portals include a lower ledge against which livestock exerts a force while accessing feedstuffs in the feeder interior. A reinforcing annulus extends around the interior surface of the feeder proximate to and below the lower feeding portal ledge. The reinforcing annulus may be integrally formed with the polymeric cylinder or separately formed and attached to the polymeric cylinder. The feeder can withstand repeated feedings without collapse.

主权项

1. A livestock feeder, comprising: (a) a polymeric cylinder with an open top, an interior surface, and at least one feeding portal with a lower ledge in a vertical arcuate sidewall section, wherein the polymeric cylinder has a molded polymeric structure of vertical polymer reinforcing posts on the interior surface; and (b) a reinforcing annulus located along the interior surface beneath the lower ledge of the at least one feeding portal, the reinforcing annulus comprising multiple arcuate segments and having a radius of curvature substantially the same as a radius of curvature of the polymer cylinder at the interior surface, wherein the reinforcing annulus is secured by fasteners to the interior surface of the polymeric cylinder and provides horizontal hoop strength at the elevation of the lower ledge on the interior surface.