Design, Simulation, and Mechanical Evaluation of Modular Aluminium-Based Goat Housing for Tropical Conditions

Abstract

The development of durable and climate-resilient livestock infrastructure is critical for sustaining productivity in tropical goat farming systems. This study presents the design, structural simulation, mechanical characterization, and field fabrication of a modular goat housing system using Aluminium Alloy 6063-T5 (AA 6063-T5) and Galvanized Iron (GI) components. The housing frame, constructed with 28 mm × 1.7 mm grooved hollow aluminium pipes, was assessed through tensile and Brinell hardness tests, yielding an average tensile strength of 266.3 MPa and hardness of 60 HB. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) under live loads ranging from 294 N to 686 N demonstrated that the structure remained within elastic limits, with a safety factor above 1.2 under typical load conditions. The modular goat housing maintained integrity under static and behavioural loading scenarios, while offering improved hygiene and reduced maintenance via corrosion-resistant GI mesh flooring. Behavioural comparisons from prior studies affirmed enhanced animal comfort and thermal regulation in aluminium-based structures. The findings validate the potential of AA 6063-T5 as a lightweight, low-maintenance alternative to wood for sustainable livestock housing. The study recommends structural reinforcement for high-load scenarios and further field validation to support wider adoption among small-scale farmers.