DeLaval advances milking with next-level automation

DeLaval has launched a new series of milking automation control systems designed to meet the evolving needs of dairy farmers milking in parlor systems. These systems are built to deliver connectivity, flexibility and performance, DeLaval Milking Automation can help producers optimize their operations with features such as real-time data insights, scalable functionality and cloud connectivity.

Once the milking clusters are manually attached, Milking Automation takes charge, automating the process and enabling precision milking — from flow-adjusted stimulation to measuring milk yield and automatically detaching the clusters when milking is finished.

“Milking Automation represents a significant step forward for dairy farmers seeking to improve efficiency and productivity without having to replace their current milking equipment,” said Jeff Hahn, Solution Manager of Milking Systems at DeLaval. “This is a great option for producers looking to do more with less.”

This latest technology from DeLaval is available in three models, each tailored to meet the specific needs of different farmers. Milking Automation MA100 features the most basic automation for those seeking simple efficiency improvements, the MA200 gains additional system connectivity and integration features, and the MA500 is the most advanced model, offering a display at each stall showing key cow, milk and herd management data.

Simplified operations for dairy farmers

Ease of use is a cornerstone of DeLaval Milking Automation, which includes a one-touch button that allows farmers to toggle between milking functions, such as manual take-off, manual mode, stimulation, high vacuum and sorting cows. This simplified interface reduces manual input and streamlines workflows. A color-coded LED alert system also notifies farmers when intervention is needed.

“It can tell you right there, she’s low three pounds or she’s plus ten pounds…and that’s pretty quick. You don’t even have to come to the office to look at the cow. You can do it right in the parlor,” said Patti Dolph, a Wisconsin dairy farmer using Milking Automation.

There are four hero features of DeLaval Milking Automation representing the system’s core capabilities:

• FlexiCommand is designed to provide flexibility and effortless control with tools like our Interactive Data Display (IDD) or our new apps for mobile devices.
• FlexiFit enables compatibility with all parlor types and brands and is suitable for both new installations and retrofits.
• FlexiFuture allows the system to grow with the farm, ensuring it meets future needs. With its modular and scalable design, it can function as a standalone solution or be upgraded with DeLaval Plus for real-time data insights and cloud-based services.
• FlexiMilk is about seamless integration with other DeLaval solutions, such as DeLaval milk meters, Flow-Responsive™ milking and the Evanza™ milking cluster.