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Osborne Wean-to-Finish Pig Feeder
The FAST Start Big Wheel Pig Feeder is designed to support pigs from the early weaning stage through finishing weight while maintaining consistent feed availability. This large-capacity wean-to-finish feeder uses Osborne’s FAST Start feeding system, which begins with gravity-flow feeding to help newly weaned pigs start eating quickly and then automatically transitions to mechanical feed delivery once pigs are strong enough to activate the feeder wheel. The result is a feeding system that supports early pig growth while helping reduce feed waste as animals mature.
Built for long-term durability in swine production environments, the RF3FS feeder features reinforced fiberglass construction and heavy-duty metal components. Its round trough allows pigs to feed from all sides, providing 360-degree access that helps reduce crowding and improve feeding comfort. The feeder’s larger hopper capacity makes it well-suited for operations that require dependable feed availability with fewer refilling cycles.
RF3FS FAST Start Pig Feeder Specifications
| Catalog Number | FF-00RF3FS |
|---|---|
| Model Number | RF3FS |
| Feed Capacity | 785 lbs (356 kg) |
| Feeder Height | 60 in (152.5 cm) |
| Trough Diameter | 38 in (97 cm) |
| Recommended Hog Weight | 10 lbs to market weight |
| Maximum Hog Capacity | Up to 60 head |
Feed capacity based on feed density of approximately 42 lbs per cubic foot.
Feeder with Lid
Key Features
- FAST Start feeding system supports newly weaned pigs before transitioning to mechanical feeding
- Large hopper capacity reduces refill frequency in swine feeding operations
- Mechanical feed delivery helps reduce wasted feed compared to gravity-flow feeders
- Round, self-cleaning trough eliminates corners where feed can accumulate
- 360-degree feeding access allows pigs to eat comfortably from all sides
- Reinforced fiberglass hopper and trough designed for durability
- Easy-to-clean design suitable for livestock barns and hog pens
- Ships knocked down on a pallet with assembly and operating instructions
- Includes hopper lid to help protect feed
Product Details
The RF3FS FAST Start Big Wheel Feeder is designed to simplify feeding management from the nursery stage through finishing. During the first 10 to 14 days after pigs are introduced to the feeder, small slides located in the hopper bottom remain open. This allows feed to flow freely into the trough, ensuring young pigs can easily access feed before they develop the strength needed to operate the feeder’s agitation wheel.
As pigs grow and begin interacting with the feeder wheel, the system automatically transitions into mechanical-flow feeding mode. In this stage, pigs control feed delivery by rotating the wheel in the trough. This controlled feed dispensing helps prevent excess feed buildup and supports more efficient feed use throughout the finishing period.
The feeder is constructed with abrasion-resistant reinforced fiberglass for both the hopper and trough, helping it withstand daily livestock use. Structural metal components include hot-dipped galvanized, zinc-plated, painted, and stainless steel parts to provide strength and corrosion resistance. The round trough design eliminates corners where feed can collect, helping maintain a cleaner feeding area while allowing multiple pigs to feed comfortably at the same time.
Swine Feeders
The RF3FS FAST Start Wean-to-Finish Pig Feeder is ideal for swine operations feeding pigs from approximately 10 pounds through market weight. Its larger hopper capacity makes it particularly useful for producers managing larger groups of pigs or facilities where maintaining a consistent feed supply with fewer refills is important.
The feeder can be installed in the center of a pen to provide full feeding access or positioned along a fence line, depending on pen layout. Its durable construction and self-cleaning trough design make it suitable for use in commercial swine barns, finishing facilities, and small farm hog operations.
Pig Feeder Frequently Asked Questions
How does the FAST Start system help newly weaned pigs?
The FAST Start system allows feed to flow freely into the trough during the first days after pigs are introduced to the feeder. This helps newly weaned pigs begin eating quickly before they learn to operate the feeder wheel.
How does mechanical feed flow improve feeding efficiency?
Mechanical feed flow requires pigs to activate the feeder wheel to release feed from the hopper. This prevents continuous feed flow and helps reduce overfilled troughs, allowing pigs to access feed when needed while minimizing wasted feed.
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 simple and 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.