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of the Energiser. While simple, a
drawback is that the strength of the
electrical pulse weakens as it travels
further through the soil to the Earth
Electrode.
Multi-Wire Fence
As an alternative, there's the multi-wire
fence which includes one or more Earth
Wires. These Earth Wires can be
connected through metal support
posts, ensuring consistent grounding.
They also allow adding more Earth
Electrodes along the fence, boosting
its effectiveness.
This type of fence may consist of 3, 5,
7, or even more wires, with alternate
connections to the Live or Earth
Terminals. It's ideal for fencing that
spans more than 1km (or 3000ft) or in
regions with specific conditions like
low soil moisture, sandy terrains, shallow topsoil, or droughts. It's also a preferred choice for
managing hard-to-contain animals, pest control, or enclosures housing animals of various sizes.
The multi-wire fence offers two return paths for the electrical pulse to the Energiser:
A/ Via the Live Wire, through the sub-soil moisture, back to the Energiser. Its efficacy is contingent
on the soil's moisture content and the distance from the animal to the nearest Earth Electrode.
B/ Directly through the animal, between its contact points with the Live and Earth Wires. This
design offers the highest deterrence due to its minimal electrical resistance, ensuring a strong
electrical pulse.
Mesh Fence
For controlling pests like foxes and wild dogs, a grounded high-tensile mesh fence topped with one
or two Live Wires provides an excellent barrier. The mesh prevents these animals from squeezing
through or under, while the Live Wires deter them from climbing.
Earth Electrode
You must install a proper Earth Electrode. Use ONLY GALVANISED steel, pipe or fence posts (star
pickets). DO NOT use bitumen-covered posts or rusty metal because these will reduce the intensity
of the pulse to the animal. You want the Earth Electrode to have as much conductive surface area
in contact with sub-soil moisture as possible. Typically, you should drive the Earth Electrode 1.5m
into the ground. Don’t overlook this point! Then at distances of about every 500~1000m along the
multi-wire fence, add more Earth Electrodes and connect these to the Earth Wires of the fence.
For more design information & worthwhile tips, visit our website at:
Electric Fence Design: www.sureguard.com.au/page/electric-fence-design
Tips and videos: www.sureguard.com.au/page/video-pro-tech-5