With the majority of spring-calving cows now dried off and the milking season coming to a close on dairy farms, now is a good time to check the milking machine.
The milking machine is one of the most important assets on a dairy farm, so it is paramount that it remains operational and functioning correctly going into 2021.
A milking machine should be serviced at least once a year. If the machine is due a service it may be a good idea to book that in over the next few weeks.
The following parts of the milking machine should be checked:
- The vacuum – should be a maximum of 48 kilopascal (kPa);
- The liners – research has indicated that they should be changed every 2,000 milkings;
- The short pulse tubes and long milk tubes for cracks and wear and tear;
- The claw bowl seals and shut off valve seals – replace if necessary;
- The claw bowls for cracks or chips.
In addition to these checks, the meal feeders should be inspected to ensure they are working properly and that they are correctly calibrated. Similarly, the bulk tank should also be checked.
This time of the year is also a good opportunity to make any other necessary adjustments to the parlour you’ve been considering making.
Possible list of upgrades to be carried out to the milking parlour:
- Installing floor mats;
- Enter and exit gates need to be changed or altered;
- Increasing space in the collecting yard;
- Updating or installing a drafting system;
- Installing automatic cluster removers (ACRs);
- Upgrading feeders;
- Fixing any other issue identified with the parlour during the last lactation.
Finally, stock up on milking machine and bulk tank cleaning products, teat dip and spare parts. It is always a good idea to have a supply of spare parts on hand in an emergency.
- Claw bowls;
- Pulsation tubes;
- Liners;
- Vacuum pump oil and belts.
Having these parts easily accessible, will mean any issues that occur can be sorted quickly, rather than having to purchase them after the issue has occurred.