What is a milk parlor?
A milk parlor is a specialized area on a dairy farm where milking of cows takes place. This space is designed to efficiently manage a large number of dairy cows and ensure the milking process is as smooth and efficient as possible.
The design and operation of the milk room directly affects the productivity of the company, the quality of the milk produced and the well-being of the cows.
What are the types of milk parlors?
There are several types of milking parlors used in the dairy industry, each with its own unique design and functionality. Here are some of the most common types:
Tandem milking parlours
Tandem milking parlours, similar to tandem bikes, are designed with cows standing nose-to-tail inside individual stalls. This configuration provides the milker with a side-on vantage point of the udder, allowing for special attention to each animal. Key features of Panazoo’s tandem parlours include:
- Individual stalls for focused milking
- Side-on access to the udder
- Ability to release cows one at a time
Herringbone milk parlours
Herringbone parlours are commonly used on farms with smaller herds. In this design, cattle stand at a 45-degree angle, providing a different access point to the udder. Panazoo’s herringbone parlours ensure high adaptability, harmony, and attention for the animals.
Parallel milk parlours
In parallel parlours, cows stand parallel to each other. This design leaves one access point for the milker to reach the udder: the rear end. Panazoo’s parallel parlours are designed to provide top safety and comfort for both the operator and the cows.
Rotary milking parlours
Rotary parlours, often likened to carousel rides for dairy cows, feature milking stalls arranged in a large circle on a platform that rotates slowly. Panazoo’s rotary parlours offer greater comfort and profitability during milking.
Regardless of the design, the main purpose is to enable efficient and humane milking of cows.