DeLaval has launched the P500, a new parallel parlour that speeds up cow exit times by 56%. The design features independently controlled, suspended, non-overlapping sequence gates, which also lift during milking to minimise cow stress.
The P500 is the only parallel parlour in the dairy industry with three options to control cow flow. The design has no sequence gates in the floor and focusses on increasing cow comfort, yield, and safety. “This design and process creates a quieter environment and a faster exit,” said DeLaval’s parlour specialist Gary Edwards. “Data collected on our pilot farms shows that this parlour can speed up cow-exit cycle times by 56%.”
Importantly, the new parlour is able to achieve this increased efficiency while occupying a smaller footprint than other parlours with the same capacity. “The P500 is 30% smaller than parlours with similar capacities. This makes it a more attractive choice for both new farms and existing dairy units that want to improve their milking efficiencies using existing buildings,” said Edwards. The SynchroArc patented design also enables a more fluid flow with no obstructions. “It is a faster design that also offers better indexing of mixed herds in a smaller area.”
The compact design of the P500 means the parlour can be installed in buildings with lower roofs. “The ceiling height can be as low as eight feet which means this parlour can be accommodated in most farm buildings. This offers those looking to move into dairy an opportunity to utilise existing buildings rather than bear the cost of building new ones,” said Edwards.
The development of the P500 has also focused on greater automation. “Our SynchroControl system enables farmers to configure multiple indexing management styles which can improve safety and comfort for cows while delivering a more efficient overall milking operation,” said Edwards.