Understanding dynamic milking machine tests

Abstract

The milking machine can transmit infection onto teats and disturb normal teat health. Milking-time tests allow advisors to quantify the degree to which the milking machine might be contributing to the risk of new intra-mammary infection. Cows' teat size and position have changed as have milk flow rates. Milk yields have been rising faster than unit attachment times. Milk flow rate has been shown to be positively associated with risk of new intra-mammary infection. Vacuum traces collected during milking can illustrate problems with biphasic milk flow or over milking and pressure records can help assess liner function. Lightweight data logging equipment is now available with excellent software to assist with interpretation.