• 12 January, 2024

What is a Pulsator? How Does It Work? Importance in Milking

Pulsator, an important component used in milking machines, is a mechanism that regulates the milking process and increases animal comfort. Understanding what a pulsator is, how it works and its role in milking is important to increase productivity in modern animal husbandry.

 

What is a Pulsator?

Pulsator is a part of the vacuum milking system in milking machines. This mechanism includes a valve system that connects the milking units to the animal's udders and performs milk extraction by applying vacuum. The pulsator allows the vacuum to change cyclically between the milk extraction and rest phases.

 

How does it work?

A pulsator is a valve system that operates at a specific stroke rate (e.g. 60/40 per minute). This stroke rate regulates the operations in the milking process. Here is the basic working principle of the pulsator:

 

Milk Extraction Phase:

In the milk extraction phase, the pulsator compresses the animal's udders by transmitting the vacuum to the milking units. In this process, milk is drawn from the milking unit towards the milk hose.

 

Rest Phase:

After the milk extraction phase, the pulsator enters the rest phase. In this phase, the valves close and the vacuum is cut off. The teats are released, which allows the animal's teats to relax and blood circulation to improve.

 

Cyclic Continuation:

These withdrawal and rest phases continue according to a set rate of beats per minute. The cycle is repeated throughout the milking process.

 

Importance in Milking:

Regular operation of the pulsator affects both animal comfort and milk quality. The correct stroke rate and cycle ensures proper stimulation of the udders. Furthermore, regular interruption of the vacuum helps to relax the udders and reduce stress during milking. This in turn positively affects the milk yield and overall health of the animals.

The pulsator is a technological element that has an important role in milking and forms part of efforts to improve animal comfort and milk quality in modern animal husbandry practices.