Conductor Material: The Core of Every Electric Fence

Conductor Material – Secure Current Flow in the Pasture

An energizer can be as strong as possible – if the conductor material does not transport the current properly, the fence is ineffective. The conductor material forms the physical and electrical barrier of your fence. The fine conductor wires made of copper or stainless steel inside ensure that the current delivers the necessary shock upon animal contact.

Depending on the animal species, fence length, and location conditions (like strong winds or heavy vegetation), different materials are used. While simple polywire or solid steel wire is often used for cattle, horses absolutely need a highly visible material like polytape or thick polyrope.

What you need to pay attention to when making your selection:

• Electrical resistance (Ohm/m): This is the most important value! A low Ohm value means that the current flows very well. For long fences, you absolutely need material with low resistance.
• Breaking strength: This indicates the load at which the material breaks. Solid wire withstands enormous tensile forces, while a tape is designed to give way during panic to prevent injuries to horses.
• Visibility: Thick ropes and wide tapes are immediately recognized as a boundary by the animals from a distance.

Choosing the Conductors (Stainless Steel vs. Copper)

The current-carrying wires in the material are usually made of stainless steel or copper. Copper conductors have excellent conductivity but are softer and more susceptible to mechanical stress. Stainless steel absolutely does not rust and is extremely break-resistant, but it slows down the current slightly more. High-quality premium conductor material often combines both metals to achieve a perfect mix of durability and strong conductivity.

FAQs about Conductor Material

Why shouldn't I knot the conductor material?
A knot interrupts the clean contact of the internal metal wires. The current drops massively at this point. Instead, always use matching metal connectors to guarantee a smooth flow of current.

Which material do I use for horses?
For horses, you should only use wide polytape or thick polyrope. These materials are highly visible and, in the event of a breakthrough, do not cut deep into the skin like a smooth steel wire.

What does a high Ohm value mean?
A high Ohm value means a high electrical resistance. The conductor material severely slows down the current. Such material is only suitable for very short strip grazing without vegetation.