Discover how partition gates are fabricated for livestock pen division and herd management. Learn about material selection, hardware systems, and real-world farm installations.
Introduction
Partition gates divide livestock pens into smaller sections for sorting, feeding, treatment, and management. These gates must be strong enough to withstand animal pressure while being easy to operate by farm staff. At Fulei Metal, we fabricate partition gates for livestock operations across Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia.
Partition Gate Applications
Pen division gates create temporary or permanent divisions within larger pens. Sorting gates allow animals to be directed into different pens with diverter mechanisms. Treatment access gates provide access to treatment areas and race systems with slam-latch mechanisms. Feed barrier gates allow animals to be locked in or out of feeding areas. Calf and creep gates allow young animals to access special areas while excluding adults with adjustable openings.
Material Selection
Hot-dip galvanized steel is the standard material with zinc coating providing corrosion resistance in livestock housing. We use 1.5 to 2.5 mm steel tube, with heavier construction for gates facing significant animal pressure. For dairy operations and veterinary facilities, stainless steel (grade 304) provides superior hygiene and corrosion resistance. Powder coating over galvanized steel provides a smooth, easy-to-clean surface in various colors.
Hardware Systems
Partition gate hinges must support gate weight while allowing smooth operation in dirty environments, fabricated from galvanized or stainless steel with replaceable pins. Gate latches must secure against animal pressure while allowing easy one-handed operation, including slam latches, drop-bar latches, and chain latches. Self-closing mechanisms use weighted or spring-return hinges. Remote operation uses cables, levers, or pneumatic actuators for single-person management of complex sorting systems.
Fabrication Process
Our TRUMPF fiber laser cuts gate components, hinge brackets, latch plates, and reinforcement gussets. Steel tubes are cut to length and notched for frame assembly. Some designs incorporate bent components using CNC tube bending. Gate assembly uses MIG welding for steel frames and TIG welding for stainless steel, with all welds ground smooth. Galvanized gates are hot-dip galvanized after fabrication, with stainless steel gates possibly electropolished and powder-coated gates finished in client-specified colors.
Case Study: Pig Farm Partition System
A European pig farming operation required partition gates for a new 2,000-head finishing facility including 200 partition gates, 30 sorting gates, and 20 treatment access gates. We fabricated all gates from 2.0 mm galvanized steel tube with hot-dip galvanizing after fabrication, slam-latch mechanisms, and self-closing hinges. The farm manager reported excellent durability and smooth operation, and has ordered gates for an additional facility.
Conclusion
Livestock partition gate fabrication requires structural engineering, hardware expertise, and understanding of herd management operations. Fulei Metal’s experience in livestock equipment fabrication makes us a trusted partner for partition gate projects.