The Edstrom controller is a reliable, programmable electronic controller that has the ability to store in its memory two complete operating programs. This permits the operator to program one cooling program to activate at a lower range of temperatures; while a second, more intensive cooling program can be entered to come on at a higher temperature when the cows are being subjected to more heat stress.

The controller could activate in sequence, to permit showering for a 2-minute period of time during a 20-minute cycle followed by 12 minutes with no showering. At the end of this cycle, the controller checks the temperature again, and if the temperature is above the programmed level, the cycle will start all over again.

There should be a continuous flow of air over the backs of the cattle any time the cooling system is in operation. This causes the water to be evaporated, which takes the heat away from the cattle in the process. Fans would be controlled separately from the cooling system, and could be set to operate continuously above a temperature of 70°F.  An air velocity of 400 to 600 feet per minute over the cows’ backs is recommended. A 36-inch fan providing 11,000 cfm will move air effectively for 20 to 30 feet, and a 48-inch fan will move air up to 40 feet. Fans should be placed as low as possible, while still allowing clearance for cows and equipment. The fans should be angled downward approximately 30° (aim toward the floor beneath the next fan in line).

Programming of the controllers is easy to do. Time and temperature settings in both LO-Range and HI-Range are easily viewed and adjusted as desired. The shower times and interval times can be set anywhere within the range of 0 – 99 minutes, while the actuation temperature can be set anywhere between 40° – 99°F in either the LO or HI-Range settings. You can also select the number of electric solenoid valves that are to be operated. Once the settings are entered, they are saved automatically, and will not be lost if the electrical power is interrupted.

Mist and fogging nozzles are often used to cool dairy cows by cooling the air around the cows. Unfortunately, the mist can be easily blown away under windy conditions or when used with fans. If a mist or fog builds up on the cow’s hair, it can trap a layer of air between the skin and the water holding in body heat. In addition, mist and fogging nozzles are often operated at high pressures and require regular maintenance. In comparison, high-capacity Edstrom soaker nozzles produce a coarse droplet spray which penetrates the hair and wets the cow to the hide. Edstrom soaker nozzles operate at reduced water pressure of 10 to 20 psi. The water is then allowed to evaporate, pulling heat from the animal, just like sweating. Air movement across the wet hide, provided by fans, makes this system most efficient. Proper control is critical to ensure that the cow gets soaked to the hide along the topline while not getting wet to the point of having water running off the sides.

There are two types of showers on a Cool Sense system, unidirectional shower and bidirectional showering. Unidirectional showering consists of one manifold that disperses water in one direction, while bidirectional showering has two manifolds that disperse water in opposite directions. Normal recommendations are to shower the animals for a short period of time, 0.5 - 3 minutes, to soak the hide. After the shower shuts off, the water is evaporated from the cattle by fans blowing across their backs for 5.0 to 15.0 minutes, before repeating the shower cycle.

Common locations for installing a shower cooling system are in the Holding Pen area, where cows are crowded together tightly, and in the feed line area. There are several steps to follow when designing a system layout.