Barrett Engineering has launched additions to its popular manual squeeze crate at this year’s National Ploughing Championships.

Niall Barrett of Barrett Engineering said there had been increased demand from farmers handling calves in dairy calf to beef systems, as well as suckler farmers seeking a better means of handling young calves.

The solid block on the left keeps the calf in the centre of the crate, with the squeeze action coming from the right-hand side.

ADVERTISEMENT

A semi-permanent solid block sits on one side of the crush. This can be fixed at different heights or along a wall, while the manual squeeze press at the alternate side incrementally narrows, as required, to hold the calf in a safe position.

Removable bars along this side allow easy access to the calf for any task, while the calf’s head is firmly secured in the manual head gate, which is also fitted with the ratcheted head scoop.

All manner of tasks, from dehorning to vaccinating, can be completed by using the crate.

The unit is also fitted with a backing bar, meaning the animal is firmly secured, with an Easifix mat incorporated into the floor for grip.

The whole system includes integrated weighing scales, and qualifies for the Farm Safety Capital Investment Scheme at a 60% grant rate.

Double chute

The Galway engineering company also debuted its double-chute system, which can be added to new or existing cattle crates.

Modelled off similar systems in large-scale US ranches, the double chute allows for easier filling of the crush unit, with cattle more relaxed in a side-by-side situation.

The head of the unit can be moved from one side to the other to allow loading of the front crate from either side.

The double entry leading to the cattle crate.