MN Dairy Quality Cares

Just like a car or tractor, milking equipment needs regular maintenance and replacement of parts that experience wear and tear. Failure to properly maintain milking equipment can lead to cow comfort and udder health issues, including increased clinical mastitis and SCC, improper cleaning and high bacteria counts, as well as parlor inefficiency. Dairies that milk round-the-clock must pay even more attention to preventive maintenance, as unscheduled down time for repairs can be particularly costly.

Whether a dairy contracts out for equipment service or has dairy staff perform regular maintenance, it’s critical that an owner or manager take responsibility for ensuring that important tasks get accomplished on schedule. Too often, without a schedule and check system, things get pushed aside until what could have been a simple preventive measure becomes a costly repair.  Tasks can be spread out over the year, which helps with budgeting and reduces parlor down time. Work with your equipment dealer to make sure all necessary items are included in the schedule according to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance interval. Some examples of the most common preventive maintenance items include:

Replacement of Rubber Goods

     ♦ There are many liners on the market, and all have a definite lifespan for optimal performance. Replace liners according the manufacturer recommendations.

     ♦ Milk hoses should be replaced at least every 6 months.

     ♦ Pulsation hoses, wash hoses, milkline and other gaskets should be replaced at least yearly.

Milking Claws

     ♦ Regularly check for cracks and buildup of milk film on internal surfaces. If vented, check that vents are open and use the right size tool to open plugged vents.

     ♦ Claw gaskets should be replaced at least every 6 months.

Pulsators

     ♦ Pulsators should be rebuilt according to the recommended interval (depending on manufacturer, may be every 1500-3000 milking hours). If not following manufacturer recommendations, rebuild at least 1-2 times per year.

Filters & Drains

     ♦ Check and clean or replace filters on airlines, regulators and pulsators regularly.

     ♦ Airlines should have drains installed at low points and vertical elbows. Check and clean drains (and airlines) regularly to prevent leaks and bacterial growth.

Routine Assessment of Cleaning System

     ♦ Don’t forget air injectors, chemical pumps, mechanical valves and rubber goods associated with the cleaning system.

Pump Maintenance

     ♦ Vacuum and milk pumps need regular service to maintain capacity and prevent failure.