Southwest Agri-Plastics Inc is the latest sponsor of EGG-NEWS.  The company located in Addison, TX has provided plastic components and equipment to agriculture for over 50 years.

The advantage of plastic over wood relates to efficiency of decontamination critical to maintain health of flocks. Plastic components are frequently superior to metal that is subject to corrosion and is more durable provided that composition resists wear and fracture.

Southwest Agri-Plastics manufactures plastic components for the poultry industry, horticulture, warehousing and the energy sector.  Victor Sahm III, president of Southwest Agri-Plastics maintains that all of his company products have one thing in common, “that they make it easier for customers to do business”. 

Products used extensively in the egg industry include:-

• Dura-Plast egg transport system. The 3-part interlocking design can be customized to meet specific needs carrying up to 246 dozen eggs per pallet.  The system comprises a pallet base, plastic dividers, and 30-egg trays. The integrated egg transport system was developed to replace wooden pallets to enhance biosecurity. The transport system contributes to optimal protection of shells. Dura-Plast pallets are available as rackable with feet or nonrackable with caps. Dura-Plast egg trays incorporated Bio-Pruf antimicrobial protection to reduce levels of bacterial pathogens. Dura-Plast pallets can be converted from rackable to nonrackable and vice versa by installing pallet caps with feet.  An effective egg transport system offers a rapid payback and given a reduction in downgrades and leakers.

Dura-Slat poultry flooring systems fabricated from high impact wear resistant polypropylene plastic. Plastic flooring systems reduce foot pad problems and if eggs are laid on the slatted area, they generally are cleaner than on either wooden slats or litter.  Dura-Slat flooring systems have reinforced stress points and are designed for ease of cleaning.

• Dura-Pad inserts for nests. These inserts are fabricated from high grade polyethylene to provide wear resistance.  The rounded tops contribute to hen comfort and ensure safe egg roll out.  Dura-Pads inserts are easy to clean and cost effective. 
• Dura-Ramp units are placed adjacent to nests in barns and contribute to cleaner nests and eggs. Dura-Ramp modules are constructed of high-impact polypropylene providing optimal resistance to wear and impact.

• Dura-Grow chick feeder available in oval or round configuration are recommended to start chicks on floor systems

Details of Southwest Agri-Plastics products can be obtained from the company website by clicking onto the logo on the right side of the welcome page.