Surface temperature of piglets in creep feeders submitted to different heating systems

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the well-being and surface temperature of piglets submitted to different heating systems in creep feeders during the first three weeks of life, using infrared thermography. This work was carried out in a swine maternity of the Experimental Center on the Swine Industry of the Federal University of Lavras (MG), from October to November, 2015. A prototype solar water heater was constructed using alternative materials - SASA, which was compared to three other heating systems (conventional solar water heater - SASC, infrared lamps - SALI and concrete floor heated by means of electric resistance (SAEL). The use of thermographic images allowed a greater accuracy in the measurements of sensible heat dissipation in piglets, showing variations during the first weeks of life, as well as in the different heating systems evaluated.