MS Gas operated tail docker Super
A device for painless and effective docking the tails of new-born piglets.
Cuts and cauterises at the same time, to reduce the risk of infection.
Economical: a cylinder full of gas will be sufficient for approximately 120 piglets.
Built-in electronic ignition.
Operating instructions
Temperature: Approx 400°C
Burning time: Approx 1 - 1½ hours.
It is recommended to refill the gas cylinder before each use in order to avoid running out unexpectedly. In normal use, you
should expect to be able to treat approximately 10 litters with one full cylinder. A clear window at the back of the cylinder
enables a visual check that it contains gas.
Refilling
Refilling with a gas cigarette lighter refill cartridge is easy.
Do not smoke while carrying out this operation.
Select an adaptor to suit if necessary. Hold the Tail Docker with the filling end upwards, and invert the refill cartridge, fitting
it to the filling point in the base. To purge air from the cylinder, open the gas valve by pushing it towards the blade (Position
"I") and press the two cylinders together. Once gas has come through the burner end (you will notice a slight reddening of
the blade), close the gas valve (Position "0"), and continue to apply pressure until gas escapes from the filling nozzle. We
recommend that after filling you stick a small piece of adhesive tape over the end, as it is possible for any dirt which gets in
there to be blown inside the gas cylinder when refilling, and this can eventually block the valve at the burner end and stop
the burner from working.
The temperature can be adjusted with the rotary knob at the back of the cylinder.
In a couple of minutes, the blade will have reached operating temperature (Approx 400°C), and the tail docker is ready for
use. To save fuel, you can turn down the burner between litters.
It is the heat of the blade which does the work, not the sharpness. Cut gently until the tail falls
off. Don't apply excessive pressure, as this can cause bleeding, which may result in infection. It
is important not to cut the tail too short, as this can damage the nerves of the tail. If there is no
sensation in the tail, the animal is more likely to be the victim of any future tail-biting.
When you have finished using the device turn it off by returning the slider to the "0" position,
taking care that the blade will remain hot for a while.
Changing the blade
Undo the screw from the metal ring to enable the blade to be removed and replaced.
Caution!
To clean the blade use a dry cloth, or possible some fine sand-paper. The gas cylinder contains gas under pressure. Do not
expose it to temperatures over 50°C or to direct sunlight.
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