How to measure flow rate in a poultry nipple drinker system

Measuring water flow rate is critical to ensuring adequate poultry flock hydration.

Nipple drinker systems, by nature, are closed. So, it’s impossible to know that the water supply is reaching the birds, unless you have an indication.

Whilst a moist drip tray or cup is a good qualitative visual cue. It’s not a quantitative indicator.

In other words, a moist drip tray tells you water pressure is enough, but not how much.

And the precision of knowing how much provides finite control over flock performance.

To obtain a quantitative view of water flow through the nipple drinker system, it is recommended that you use a water flow meter.

Using a poultry nipple drinker water flow meter

Requirements:

• 1x water flow meter
• Active nipple drinker line
• Stop watch
• Record log

Step 1.

Select a nipple under a drinker line in active use

Step 2.

Place the gauge opening under a nipple and push the nipple at an angle to activate flow.

Step 3.

Time the water flow for 30 seconds exactly.

Step 4.

Stop water flow after 30 seconds and record water gauge level.

Target nipple drinker water flow (by broiler age in weeks)

• Recommended water flow requirements increases by 5 m per 30 seconds (as seen above)
• Flow of nipples along the entire length of the drinker line will ensure consistency, especially where there is a floor gradient