Are you changing your liners on time?

Regular maintenance and timely replacement of milking liners are key for optimal milking performance, milk quality, and cow health. DairyNZ recommends changing liners after 2,500 milkings. Since liners are the only part of the milking system that comes into direct contact with the cow’s teats, adhering to this regular replacement schedule can mitigate animal health issues and maintain optimal milking hygiene.

Over time, liners deteriorate, leading to common issues such as:

• Flex cracking in the barrel: Increases the risk of splits and bacteria growth, which can contaminate milk, affect milk grade, and spread mastitis infections between cows.
• Mineral deposit build-up: Creates an abrasive surface, leading to teat damage and an increased infection risk.
• Liner mouthpiece and barrel distortion: Swelling caused by milk fat and chemical absorption can affect mounting tension critical for pulsation and maintaining a high milk flow rate.
• Inelastic, swollen, or cracked liners: Cannot apply the necessary massage pressure to stimulate milk let-down, resulting in lower milk yields from a worn liner compared to that of a new one.

Liner deterioration can lead to cup slip, increased average milk out time, reduced milk quality, and increased risk of mastitis infections due to incomplete milk out and teat damage.

For advice choosing the right liner and setting up a maintenance plan, book a free Dairy Shed Rubberware Review today!