Topics:
Animal Refresher, Dairy Science
Heart of the Milking Machine
Which component of the milking machine is known as the 'heart of the milking machine'?
- Pulsator — Correct Answer
- Vacuum pump
- Regulator
- Teat cup shell
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Pulsator
The pulsator is known as the 'heart of the milking machine'. It creates alternating vacuum and atmospheric pressure cycles that simulate the suckling action and massage the teats.
Functions of a Milking Machine
- Opens the streak canal with partial vacuum → allows continuous milk flow.
- Massages the teats → prevents congestion of blood in the teat.
Key Milking Machine Parameters
- Pulsation rate: Optimum = 60 cycles/minute (not <40 or >120 cycles/min).
- Pulsation ratio: Cattle = 60/40; Buffalo = 50/50.
- Ideal vacuum: Cattle = 352 mmHg; Buffalo = 400 mmHg.
- Recommended vacuum: 10–15 inches of mercury.
- Minimum herd size for machine milking: 20 animals.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Vacuum pump → creates and maintains the overall vacuum; important but not called the 'heart'.
- Regulator → controls vacuum pressure; a supporting component.
- Teat cup shell → physical interface between the machine and the cow's teat.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Refresher
This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Dairy Science. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
