GEA Farm Technologies Introduces Automated Teat Dipping and Backflushing Milking Unit
Naperville, Ill. – GEA Farm Technologies brings dairy producers a modern solution for better 
mastitis control and improved milk quality with the introduction of the ApolloMilkSystem. Apollo utilizes extremely innovative technology to automatically dispense teat dip from within the milking unit, just prior to removal, to ensure postdipping is performed completely and consistently. After removal, a sanitizing backflush solution neutralizes any remaining bacteria in the milking unit before it is attached to the next cow.
mastitis control and improved milk quality with the introduction of the ApolloMilkSystem. Apollo utilizes extremely innovative technology to automatically dispense teat dip from within the milking unit, just prior to removal, to ensure postdipping is performed completely and consistently. After removal, a sanitizing backflush solution neutralizes any remaining bacteria in the milking unit before it is attached to the next cow."The ApolloMilkSystem offers dairy producers the next level of technology in terms of further automating the conventional milking process," says Steve Pretz, U.S. national sales manager for milking and cooling products. "Apollo is also the only automatic dipping system on the market that is AMDERC approved, and therefore State Inspector accepted. At GEA Farm Technologies, we take great pride in always putting milk quality and milk safety first, and we are the only company to go the extra mile to achieve the proper approvals by milking equipment regulatory agencies on technology of this nature."
The ApolloMilkSystem makes certain milk is harvested safely through its patent-pending separation technology. A safety valve, constructed of tough Radel material, guarantees milk and teat dip always remain in separate channels, safeguarding the purity of the milk supply. The "Block-Bleed-Block" shutoff design provides redundant safety that producers can rely on.
The unique geometry of the liner dome ensures that equal amounts of dip are distributed around each teat for complete coverage and protection – milking to milking. The ApolloMilkSystem replaces dip cups that can become heavily soiled and potentially transfer mastitis-causing bacteria between cows, as well as automatic postdip spray systems that rarely provide dip coverage to all sides of the teat. Plus, by automating the postdipping process, dairy producers can reduce the labor required in the parlor, improve milking procedure efficiencies and often increase parlor throughput.
"Labor cost is one of the biggest concerns plaguing today’s commercial dairy producers," Pretz adds. "The ApolloMilkSystem uses technology to help reduce labor and improve efficiency – the constant goals of every profitable operation."
The ApolloMilkSytem is integrated into the IQ Milking Unit, a unique four-chamber milking unit that features a vacuum control system that blocks airflow just prior to attachment (or kick-off), which means manure, bedding and other contaminants are not sucked into the milk line.
"From attachment to unit removal, this milking unit provides the ultimate in milk quality," Pretz emphasizes. "The ApolloMilkSystem eliminates human error and facilitates a superior milk harvesting process."
For more information, contact GEA Farm Technologies at 1.877.WS.DAIRY or 1.877.973.2479.
