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785-Pound Finishing Pig Feeder
In a mechanical-flow feeder, pigs operate a feed wheel to release feed into the trough rather than relying solely on gravity to keep the pan full. This can help limit the amount of feed exposed at any one time when the feeder is adjusted correctly. The listed 785-pound hopper capacity reduces refill frequency, but daily checks are still necessary to verify feed flow and animal access.
Managing Feeding Stations and Competition
Place the feeder where pigs can approach and leave without blocking a doorway or water source. Observe whether the group can use the available feeding positions without persistent pushing or exclusion. Stocking density, pig weight and feeding behavior affect the amount of trough access needed. Adjust management and feeder placement if smaller pigs are consistently displaced.
Adjustment and Feed Quality
Use the feeder's specified settings for the ration and pig size. Check that the wheel moves freely and that feed dispenses consistently when operated. Remove damp or spoiled feed promptly, and keep the hopper protected from moisture. Do not assume that a larger hopper compensates for poor feed flow or inadequate trough space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a gravity-fed feeder? No. The listed design uses a pig-operated mechanical wheel to dispense feed.
Does the capacity describe the empty feeder weight? No; 785 pounds is the approximate feed capacity.
Osborne RF3 Big Wheel Finishing Pig Feeder - 785 lb Capacity
Mechanical-flow feeding for finishing pigs, not a gravity-fed FAST Start model. The Osborne RF3 Big Wheel Feeder holds approximately 785 pounds (15 bushels) of feed and is designed for growing and finishing pigs from about 50 pounds to market weight. Pigs turn the multi-spoke feed wheel in the trough to dispense feed from the hopper. Unlike gravity-flow feeders, the RF3 does not release feed continuously: feed moves when pigs operate the wheel, helping keep the trough from overfilling.
The RF3's reinforced fiberglass hopper and round trough provide durable feeding equipment with 360-degree access for up to 60 pigs. An internal feed sweep moves feed from the hopper while the wheel turns. When pigs stop moving the wheel, feed delivery stops. This makes the standard RF3 particularly useful for finishing operations focused on reducing spilled and wasted feed.
Need a feeder for newly weaned pigs? The RF3FS FAST Start wean-to-finish feeder is a different model that begins with gravity flow and automatically changes to mechanical flow as pigs grow.
RF3 Finishing Pig Feeder Specifications
| Model Number | RF3 |
|---|---|
| Feed Capacity | Approx. 785 lb (15 bushels) |
| Height | 60 in (152 cm) |
| Trough Diameter | 38 in (97 cm) |
| Recommended Pig Weight | 50 lb to market weight |
| Recommended Maximum Group Size | Up to 60 pigs |
Feed capacity is approximate and varies with feed density.
RF3 Finishing Feeder with Lid
Key Features
- Mechanical feed flow operates only when pigs turn the wheel
- Feed sweep distributes feed to the trough, helping reduce excess feed and waste
- Round, self-cleaning trough allows access from all sides
- Reinforced fiberglass hopper and trough designed for durability
- Approximate 785 lb capacity helps reduce refill frequency
- Designed for pigs from roughly 50 lb through market weight
- Ships knocked down with assembly instructions
- Includes hopper lid as described in this listing
How Does RF3 Mechanical Feeding Work?
Unlike the RF3FS FAST Start model, the standard RF3 operates in mechanical-flow mode from the beginning. The pigs rotate or move the feed wheel in the trough, driving an internal sweep that dispenses feed from the hopper. Feed is delivered when pigs operate the wheel and stops flowing when they stop. This animal-operated approach reduces the uncontrolled feed accumulation that can occur with conventional gravity feeders.
RF3 Finishing Feeder Frequently Asked Questions
Does the RF3 automatically convert from gravity feed to mechanical feed?
No. The RF3 is a standard mechanical-flow finishing feeder. Choose the RF3FS FAST Start for the automatic gravity-to-mechanical conversion feature.
What size pigs can use this model?
Osborne rates the RF3 for pigs weighing approximately 50 pounds through market weight, with capacity for up to 60 head depending on management and animal conditions.
Efficiency Boosting Design:
The Big Wheel Feeders are engineered to keep profits high by significantly reducing feed waste with minimal human intervention required. The feeder's innovative design slows or stops the feed flow into the trough when pigs stop eating, preventing overconsumption and spoilage. Additionally, the self-cleaning trough and turning paddles ensure a clean feeding area, further enhancing efficiency.
Below is a comparison chart for all of the pig feeders (and) hog feeders that details and compares the feed capacities, dimensions, and number of animals that can be served by each of the different feeders.
Hog Feeder Anchor Brackets
If you're going to be using your feeder outdoors, you want to make sure it doesn't get blown over or knocked over when empty. These handy little anchor brackets are designed to secure the trough and connect the feeder to the ground. They can be used to attach to a buried railroad tie, a pallet, or even a concrete pad if available. To keep your feeder upright and working properly in the elements, consider bolting it down so your hogs may have free access to feed and the weight gains they need.
Picture of the Anchor Bracket
The anchor brackets are straightforward. They make securing the feeder direct and easy. When the pig feeder is empty, it gets light as the empty weight is only 130 pounds. If you have a lot of pigs rooting on one side for food from an empty feeder, they could easily move it or even tip it over. It’s best to secure the feeder to a pallet or the floor if possible to prevent it from being moved around. The simple brackets make quick use of securing the feeder.
Pictures of the Pig Feeder Fence-line Adapter
The optional fence line adapter provides a convenient method of attaching the feeder to your existing pens and allows you to feed each one individually from the same feeder. Below are pictures of the adapter connected to the feeder, which is then attached to an existing fence line.
Here is a feeder with a lid being used out in the pasture.
Pig Feeder Video Review
Osborne Big Wheel Pig Feeder
In modern swine facilities, feed expenditure often constitutes a significant portion, up to 65%, of overall production costs. With a proven track record spanning over three decades, Osborne's big wheel pig feeders for nursery and finishing operations continue to set industry benchmarks.
Other Design Features for Optimal Swine Feeding:
- Original Round-Trough Design: Prioritizing spaciousness, our feeders create an inviting feeding environment that encourages consumption. Arranged in a 360° spoke-like formation, they offer ample room for multiple animals to access the trough simultaneously without crowding, promoting non-confrontational feeding interactions.
- Mechanical Flow System: Ensures a steady supply of fresh feed while ceasing feeding when demand subsides. This on-demand mechanism prevents feed from lingering untouched in the trough, where it risks being displaced by the pigs or becoming spoiled if exposed to moisture.
- Paddle Sweeps: Integrated into the feeder bar, they assist in cleaning the trough's bottom and maintaining hygiene by sweeping away debris as pigs turn the wheel to request food.