Question

What should be the effective vacuum pressure for auto machine milking in buffaloes?

• A. 400 to 420 mm of Hg
• B. 430 to 450 mm of Hg
• C. 330 to 350 mm of Hg
• D. More than 450 mm of Hg

Hint:

Cows \(\rightarrow\) Lower vacuum (\(330-360\text{ mm Hg}\)).
Buffaloes \(\rightarrow\) Higher vacuum (\(400-420\text{ mm Hg}\)) due to harder teat sphincters.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Machine milking relies on a continuous vacuum to hold the teat cups in place and pull milk out of the teat cistern. The vacuum level must be adjusted according to the species and physiological traits of the animal.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
1. Buffaloes have tighter, stronger teat sphincter muscles and thicker teat skins than dairy cows.
2. Consequently, they require a higher vacuum pressure to overcome sphincter resistance and ensure rapid, complete milk flow.
3. While dairy cows are successfully milked at a lower vacuum of \(350-380\text{ mm of Hg}\), the optimal effective vacuum pressure for buffaloes is 400 to 420 mm of Hg (approximately \(53-56\text{ kPa}\)).
4. Excessive vacuum pressure (above \(450\text{ mm of Hg}\)) must be avoided as it can cause tissue damage and hyperkeratosis at the teat ends.

Step 4: Final Answer
The correct option is (A).