An initial economic assessment of fully automatic milking of dairy cows

Abstract A simulation model of a fully automatic on-demand milking system is described. It is used to determine the number of milking units needed for various herd sizes from twenty to two hundred cows. It can also be used to determine some operational parameters such as the required holding area capacity. The costs and benefits of changing from a conventional parlour to automatic milking are calculated using these numbers and increases in milk yield are predicted due to more frequent milking. Compared with conventional twice-daily milking, if labour costs are excluded, there is an annual saving for herds over 60 cows of £48 to £72 per cow without quotas or £1 to £25 per cow with quotas. If labour costs are included, the annual savings are £71 to £103 per cow without quotas or £24 to £62 per cow with quotas. Benefits in improved health and oestrus detection could save £17 per cow or more annually. Comment is also made on other benefits which may arise from automatic milking, but which cannot be given monetary values.