Machine milking: experimental observations on the life of teat-cup liners

The useful life of neoprene teat-cup liners used in milking machines was determined by physico-mechanical, optical and microbiological studies. The various tests showed that after more than 1,000 hrs' use, that is the milking time plus disinfection time, there were physico-mechanical and biological changes that could have an adverse effect on the health of the udder as a result of a loss of elasticity and a dissemination of mastitis-producing microorganisms (S. agalactiae, S. aureus) which settle in cracks in the surface of the rubber.