Design and Comparative Cost Analysis of Alternative Prefabricated Beef Cattle Barns with Conventional Barn Types

Abstract

In this study, planning, design and cost analysis of prefabricated beef cattle barns carried out. Steel mesh was used to strengthen the foundation of the structure. Galvanized-sheet material was used as the carrier and cover material, and shaped like a trapezoid cross-section. The barns, which are planned in the form of tunnel cross-section and tie-stalls type, are designed for 10, 20 and 30-cattle to be particularly suitable for family enterprises. Polyurethane (PU) foam and extruded polystyrene sandwich panel (XSP) were used to provide heat and sound insulation. Cost analysis of the galvanized-sheet barns was compared with the barns constructed by the traditional production method. After analyses, we found that as the number of animals increased, barn cost per animal decreased. The cost reduction rates in the PU foam insulated galvanized-sheet barn were 30.1%, 32.7% and 30.6% for the 10, 20 and 30-cattle respectively. These values were 24.9%, 27.8% and 25.5% for the sandwich panel insulated galvanized-sheet barn. The most economical combination was the polyurethane foam insulation of galvanized sheets. Galvanized-sheet barns are technically sufficient, and economically advantageous than the conventional ones, so it can be recommended to both newly established enterprises and enterprises that want to improve their old barns.