Top best milking units for 2021

Milking cattle by hand is a thing of the past. It is much more convenient to use a special device that allows you to quickly obtain milk without experiencing fatigue. Such devices are purchased both for large industries and for small farms. Choosing the right device requires the right and wise approach; our article will help you make a successful purchase.

What it is

The milking machine is a device that operates via a vacuum pump.

The pump can function thanks to machine oil, but this method is inconvenient, because it requires constant monitoring and checks, in addition, equipment of this type can quickly fail in the cold season. One of the advantages is the silent operation.

There are also dry models. They are very easy to operate, do not require special skills, but are very noisy.

Making a small manual milking machine

After each specified element has been selected, the assembly of the device from the purchased parts begins.

The hose (its diameter is from 12 to 20 mm) is connected at one end to the glass, and at the other end to the pump. The second sleeve is also secured to another glass and manifold.

The transparency of these overpasses allows you to control the delivery of milk to the collecting container.

Be sure to read:

What to feed a dairy goat for good milk yield: proper diet

The glass should press well against the animal's nipple. To do this, rubber cuffs are glued along its edges. It is recommended to seal each unit well.

The electric motor is taken from the washing machine. Its power can be 0.55-0.75 kW. It is installed on a homemade welded cart. A vacuum pump is connected to its shaft.

If there is no motor, then the pump unit is turned manually. The result is a simple mechanism.

Milking machine diagram

Goat milking machine

Who will need

The owner of one or two cows should not buy such units; such equipment will require more effort to maintain. But for a farmer who keeps more than three heads of livestock, a milking machine will become a necessity, especially if there are other responsibilities. Also, for people suffering from severe back pain and diseases of the musculoskeletal system, such a purchase will not be superfluous.

Sometimes there are cases in which the animal simply does not allow itself to be touched: the individual characteristics of the cow, anatomical defects (flat or sore nipples). In such a situation, the use of a milking device will become a necessary measure.

Design and operating principle

The operating principle of milking machines imitates the sucking of the udder. The product is equipped with special glasses that are placed on the goat's nipples. Due to this, a vacuum is created. As a result, milk under pressure enters portable containers through special hoses. This makes it possible to quickly get results. Moreover, the procedure is carried out in compliance with all hygiene recommendations.

The key difference between milking devices for goats is that they have 2 cups. The composition includes the following elements:

Storage tank. It usually resembles a classic can or bucket. It is closed with a lid. There is a hygienic coating inside the container.
Pulsar. This element maintains the desired milking rhythm.
Milking cups. They are equipped with suction cups, silicone elements or clamps.
Vacuum and milk hoses.

Criterias of choice

We have already described the features of the pump above. In addition, there are a number of other parameters that should be taken into account. To avoid making a mistake when choosing, we advise you to pay attention to the following characteristics.

Pulsator

This element is responsible for the speed and volume of milking. It is this that is placed on the cow's udder. Also, a properly selected device will make it easier for the animal to endure milking and protect it from mastitis. What options are there?

Unregulated pulsator - an element that processes constant vacuum into pulses characterized by pulsation. During the milking process, the vibration of the membrane is replaced by rest for the animal. Then the next cycle begins. During operation, milk is completely pumped out of the udder. Such units are loved for their unpretentiousness, ease of operation and repair, and also for their low cost.
Pair milking - this device creates an imitation of manual milking. The cost of such models increases significantly. Two nipples are involved in the process alternately, while the other two are resting. The unit will protect the animal from complications that arise in case of milking. We recommend purchasing devices of this type for large farms where the issue of livestock health is acute.

Both types of pulsator do not in any way affect the amount of milk, however, paired milking ensures that the animal is protected from injury during the process.

Advice! Not a single veterinarian recommends using a machine to milk the last drops out of livestock. It is better to interrupt the automated process and collect the balance manually. Otherwise, the cow or goat may develop mastitis.

Collector

This part of the unit consists of several hoses, one tube is connected to the vacuum distributor, the other four are combined with elastic bands that apply to the nipples. These hoses are combined with a massive one, which drains the milk into the container. The larger the volume of the collector, the more intensively it is filled.

The standard volume is 140 cubic meters. cm, you can also find 240 cc on sale. cm. If we talk about ordinary operation and milking of 2-3 cows, then it is better to choose a standard system without overpaying for increased capacity. But if we are talking about a large farm, then you should not skimp on a large-volume collector.

Material of manufacture

When the question concerns technology, this point should be given maximum attention. This parameter is responsible for the service life and safety. For example, the glass of the device can be made of plastic. This will reduce the cost of the product, but will make it unreliable for winter use. Plastic containers, unable to withstand low temperatures, often burst and crack. You can also find glasses made of stainless steel or with a metal cylinder on sale. They have a high level of strength, but are somewhat more expensive.

The lid of the container into which the milk flows also affects the price of the device. It can be made from polypropylene or metal. We recommend purchasing a device with a replaceable plastic cover. This way, the user can save money by purchasing the required item later. It is also worth considering that careful operation of the unit will allow even the most fragile parts to last for a long time.

Terms of use

The milking unit must be maintained daily. What does care include?

Do not leave even a minimal amount of milk in the appliance.
After use, the entire system should be thoroughly cleaned. Milk is an excellent environment for the development of pathogens. The device can be washed with clean running water.
Once every seven days, the tubes are washed with brushes and the outer part with a dry rag to remove dust and external contaminants.

For cows

DeLaval Mmu11

The Swedish brand produces a universal and convenient device, approved for use in both cows and goats. The unit is reliable, it meets all the requirements of international organizations, and only high-quality and efficient elements are used in its design. Users also praise the device for its high level of security. Positive reviews inspire confidence among potential buyers. Such a model will be needed in a large farm when it comes to high-quality, uninterrupted milking that does not cause discomfort to the animal.

The device is easy to move and hygienically clean, despite its heavy weight of almost 70 kg. The pump is a dry type, the noise level is low, and there are additional hoses for greater ease of use. Energy consumption is low, which once again confirms the need to use the model for a large number of livestock.

DeLaval Mmu11

Advantages:

high performance;
positive reviews;
ease of use;
long service life;
reliable components.

Flaws:

high price.

The average cost is 65,000 Russian rubles.

Farmer ADE-03M CR

Productive unit of domestic production, type – dry. This design will provide the user with not only financial savings (no need to spend money on oil and additional maintenance), but also time savings - the equipment can milk two cows at the same time.

The weight of the device is small, it is only 27 kg, so it is so easy to transport if necessary. All manufacturing materials are safe and certified, there is a guarantee from the manufacturer. In addition, there is additional protection against liquids entering the running engine.

Farmer ADE-03M CR

Advantages:

large volume of milk container;
ergonomics;
ease of operation;
affordable price;
light weight.

Flaws:

not identified.

The average cost is 25,000 Russian rubles.

Burenka Tandem

An excellent option for small family production. The device can operate with several animals at once, providing a high level of productivity and safe milk yield. There is no need to complete the process manually, since the udder is emptied as efficiently as possible, but, most importantly, the animal will not suffer at all from such a technique.

All components are made with high quality; the controls will not raise any questions even for beginners. A special design will protect the animal from infection and mastitis. The nozzles are made of silicone, which guarantees the delicacy of the process. Quiet work also does not have a traumatic effect on the animal, which increases milk yield and quality of milk. Dry type vacuum pump.

Burenka Tandem

Advantages:

quiet operation;
Ease of Management;
high performance;
reliability and strength.

Flaws:

heavy weight.

The average cost is 35,000 Russian rubles.

Melasty TjK 1-AK

The Turkish unit will delight users with a long service life and resistance to long-term loads. Despite the fact that the device is equipped with a dry type pump, it does not make much noise during operation and tolerates low temperatures well. Among the component elements, a pump that has undergone special treatment should be distinguished. Thus, the farmer will receive a large amount of milk in a short time.

During operation, observation by the operator will not cause him fatigue, and animals also do not experience discomfort. The period of adaptation to automatic milking occurs quite quickly. The paired milking pulsator simulates the process manually, which also does not cause rejection among the livestock. The strength of all components does not cause any complaints from the user; all parts last a long time without causing unexpected breakdowns. The udder pad is made of safe rubber that does not cause allergies in the animal. The small dimensions of the model make it easy to transport, store and carry out hygienic treatment. The device can last at least 8 years.

Melasty TjK 1-AK

Advantages:

long service life;
safety;
performance;
high-quality assembly.

Flaws:

not found.

The average cost is 32,500 Russian rubles.

Ard-U2200AL

And another representative of the device with a paired milking pulsator. The unit completely releases the cow's udder, delicately removing all remaining milk. The device easily adapts to the individual characteristics of each animal, guaranteeing a painless process. According to the manufacturer, the use of this technique will increase the total amount of milk obtained.

A special trolley is included with the device, allowing you to easily transport the device. This model is useful in a large farm where it is necessary to quickly process a large number of livestock. Although the unit is powerful and productive, it does not consume a large amount of electricity.

Ard-U2200AL

Advantages:

saving energy and operator effort;
able to increase milk yield;
positive reviews;
ergonomics.

Flaws:

some users noted difficulties in servicing;
high price.

The average cost is 57,000 Russian rubles.

For goats

DaMilk AID-1

The convenient device will delight the user with ease of control. The unit is easy to maintain and does not cause rejection in animals. The long service life will please the farmer; the special design will protect the body from falls and impacts from livestock.

The components are made from durable materials. Stainless steel glasses are not afraid of frost and temperature changes. The cover of the device is made of aluminum, the nipple rubber is of high quality. The manufacturer also took care of safety: there is engine overheating protection, food hoses do not contain toxic materials.

DaMilk AID-1

Advantages:

many positive reviews;
convenient, well-thought-out design;
wheels for transportation;
long warranty period;
safety.

Flaws:

only for large farms.

The average cost is 20,000 Russian rubles.

Leader 20.2

The domestically produced product is made from the highest quality components. The model is universal, it can be used not only for goats, but also for cows. The dry type pump is designed for long service life. The engine power is capable of serving one animal without interruption. The pulsator is combined: it combines paired and synchronous milking. This eliminates the need for additional hand milking.

According to reviews, the product is not prone to breakdowns and frequent repairs. Management does not cause difficulties; operation is not capable of developing complications and pathologies in the animal. The durable design will withstand many years of service in farming of any size.

Leader 20.2

Advantages:

long service life;
strength and reliability;
safety;
ease of operation.

Flaws:

none.

The average cost is 34,000 Russian rubles.

Mini Milka MDU – 5K

Ideal option for a small farm. Using such a unit, the user has the opportunity to quickly and efficiently obtain large volumes of milk. The main advantages of the product include its productivity - it is capable of serving livestock daily for 15 years. There is a system that controls the filling of the udder, which will prevent harm to the animal. If there are restless animals in the herd that do not allow the operator and the machine to approach them, it is possible to milk from a distance. A long hose is provided for this.

Long service will not affect the engine; it is reliably protected from burnouts and heating. Also, do not be afraid of temperature changes and cold air. The system is designed with these features in mind.

Mini Milka MDU – 5K

Advantages:

well-thought-out system;
affordable price;
safety;
long service life;
performance.

Flaws:

not suitable for a large farm.

The average cost is 22,200 Russian rubles.

Varieties

Milking machines differ in type of design. If the glasses squeeze the nipple and then pump out the milk, they are called push-pull. If there is a pause between these actions, which allows the nipple to return to its original position and restore blood flow, the product is called three-stroke. This is the most physiological milking option, which helps prevent health problems. Taking into account the type of engine that is used to produce vacuum and suction milk, oil and dry devices are distinguished. Dry products make a lot of noise and get very hot.

They also need to be maintained very carefully. Oil engines require constant addition of oil. In this case, it can get into the milk.

Milking machines may also differ in the number of goats served. They can be household, mini or used for one animal. Industrial devices are capable of serving several dozen goats.