Factors Affecting Milking Parlor Selection for a New Dairy Facility

摘要

The optimum dairy parlor configuration is one of the most important decisions made during the design of a new dairy facility. Parlor style and size are usually selected by dairyman preference or hourly milking rate, with limited evaluation of other factors. Construction cost, equipment cost, maintenance cost, equipment life, labor efficiency, labor turnover, milk production, cow health, and facility resale value are additional issues that should be considered. Actual construction, maintenance and operating costs, and production information have been obtained from a variety of parlor styles in the San Joaquin Valley of California. This information is summarized to create selection criteria, to assist dairymen and designers in parlor selection on newdairy facilities.