Pulsation Rate in Machine Milking

In machine milking, pulsation rate (per minute) should be:

Correct Answer: 55–65

The recommended pulsation rate in machine milking is 55–65 cycles per minute. The optimum is 60 cycles per minute. The rate should not be less than 40 or more than 120 cycles per minute.

Key Machine Milking Parameters

• Optimum pulsation rate: 60 cycles/minute
• Pulsation ratio for cattle: 60:40 (milk phase : rest phase)
• Pulsation ratio for buffalo: 50:50
• Ideal vacuum for cattle: 352 mmHg
• Ideal vacuum for buffalo: 400 mmHg
• Minimum herd size for machine milking: 20 animals
• Heart of milking machine: Pulsator

Functions of Milking Machine

1. Opens streak canal with partial vacuum → allows continuous milk flow.
2. Massages teats → prevents blood congestion in the teat.

Why Other Options Are Wrong

• 35–45 → too slow; may not adequately stimulate milk ejection.
• 65–75 → slightly above the ideal range.
• 40–60 → partially correct but does not capture the ideal range of 55–65 with optimum at 60.