milker

A milker is a device used to extract milk from a female mammal, typically a cow or goat. Early milking was done by hand, a process that was labor-intensive and time-consuming. The development of mechanical milkers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries revolutionized dairy farming, allowing for much larger herds to be managed and increasing milk production efficiency.

Mechanical milkers work by creating a vacuum that stimulates the teat and draws milk out. This process is designed to mimic the natural suckling action of a calf. Modern milking machines are sophisticated pieces of equipment, often automated, and can milk multiple animals simultaneously. They consist of a pump, pulsation system, and teat cups that attach to the udder.

The use of milkers has significantly impacted the dairy industry, enabling higher volumes of milk to be produced and distributed. While efficiency is a primary benefit, proper hygiene and maintenance of milking equipment are crucial to prevent mastitis and ensure milk quality. Hand milking is still practiced in some smaller operations or in specific cultural contexts, but mechanical milking is the standard in commercial dairy farming worldwide.