Equine flotation tank design and technique.

This research study details the design and technique of using a flotation tank for horses. Through partial immersion in a saline solution, the tank allows for long term confinement and weight reduction. It has potential clinical applications for cases where a sling might typically be used, such as major fractures or limb trauma.

Design of the Flotation Tank

• The tank is designed to be 2.3 m long, 0.9 m wide and 1.7 m high with an annex that is 0.5 m by 0.4 m. The tank is reinforced with a 2.6 m post at each corner and cross members to counteract the pressure of the water when the tank is full.
• The tank also features a sturdy girder which allows for slings or ropes to be attached to the patient (the horse), and is constructed from fibreglass-lined marine plyboard on a metal frame.
• The tank has a viewing window and the doors of the tank are made from polycarbonate to allow for viewing of the immersed patient. The doors are also sealed with a strip of 2 cm diameter rubber gasket to prevent leaks.
• The height of the saline solution within the tank can be adjusted to accommodate horses of varying heights. This allows for comfortable access to feed and water bins which are attached in front of the tank.
• To ensure safety and comfort of the horse, the tank is equipped with a non-slip rubber mat on the floor. The tank also has a 20 cm diameter gate valve for draining the tank when necessary.

Temperature Regulation in the Flotation Tank

• The temperature of the tank is maintained within a range of 2°C (36°C ± 1°C) using three thermostatically controlled 2.5 kW heating elements. These are located in a separate compartment that is divided from the main tank by a fenestrated perspex partition.
• This design allows for free circulation of the saline solution around the heating elements while ensuring the horse’s safety by preventing direct contact with the heating elements.
• The tank is also equipped with a float switch fixed above the heating elements. This acts as a safety measure to automatically shut off the heating elements, pumps, and filters if the fluid level drops too low. This not only protects the equipment but also prevents potential scalding of the horse.

Overall, the flotation tank offers a promising solution for situations where long term immobilization and reduced weight bearing are indicated, such as in recovery from major bone fractures or limb trauma. The design of the tank ensures both the safety and comfort of the equine patients.