Abstract: In the gradient controller according to the invention, the value arrangement (32) has a valve pin (33) closing as a result of its own weight. Springs are therefore unnecessary. The valve pin (34) can be guided directionally so as to be capable of being moved up and down, thus ensuring that the gradient controller has a high degree of reliability. Also provided is an insert part (37) which can be taken out of the gradient controller and in which the valve pin (34) is capable of being moved up and down and is secured against falling out. The insert part (37) and the valve pin (34) thereby form a unit which can be taken as a whole out of the gradient controller, specifically both for maintenance purposes and for exchanging the valve pin (34) for one with a different weight, with the result that it is possible in a simple way to change the pressure compensation ratio of the gradient controller.

Abstract: Water storage tanks (15) for animal watering troughs serve for reducing the water pressure of a water supply pipe which feeds the watering line to a defined lower watering pressure. In contrast, water of a higher rinsing pressure is required for rinsing the animal watering trough. For this purpose, the water supply pipe has to be connected directly to the watering line via a bypass which bridges the water supply tank (15).To avoid the bypass pipe, the water supply tank (15) is constructed according to the invention in such a way that its regulating device (27) can be retained in a position which does not reduce the water pressure. In this way, water for rinsing the watering line can flow from the water supply pipe with non-reduced pressure through the water storage tank (15), which obviates the need for a bypass pipe.

Abstract: Pressure reducers (15) for animal watering troughs serve for reducing the water pressure of a water supply pipe which feeds the watering line to a defined, lower watering pressure. In contrast, water of a higher rinsing pressure is required for rinsing the animal watering troughs. For this purpose, the water supply pipe must be directly connected to the watering line via a bypass which bridges the pressure reducer (15).To avoid the bypass pipe, the pressure reducer (15) is constructed according to the invention in such a way that, by a suitable means, in particular a retaining device (47), the regulating device (46) of the pressure reducer (15) which reduces the water pressure is put out of operation in terms of functioning. The water from the water supply pipe can thus flow at non-reduced pressure through the pressure reducer (15) for rinsing the watering line.

Abstract: Floor-watering systems for feeding water to animals such as poultry have at least one vent (22). This vent (22) has to be closed in order to flush the floor-watering system (10), so that a flushing pressure can build up which is higher than the watering pressure. In prior art floor-watering systems (10), the closure and opening of the vents (22) requires a substantial amount of time and effort. To provide a remedy in this respect, a water supply line (17) of the floor-watering system (10) is associated with at least one shut-off member (27) or the like which is actuable by a movement of the vent (22). As a result, the readily accessible and easily actuable vent (22) forms an actuating member for closing the shut-off member (27) or the like in a simple fashion. Consequently, no tools are required for the closure and opening of the vent (22).