New technics for mastitis research & control: rubber surfaces
Heckmann, R.; Coleman, B.; Noorlander, D.
Modern Veterinary Practice 62(5): 375-380
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0362-8140 PMID: 7290049 Document Number: 169296
During the past 2 yr, different types of liners and milk tubes have been investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), elemental analysis with X-ray microprobes, and microbiological methods The cracks and pores in most rubber liners increase in width with use, whereas a new silicone rubber (Silastic) liner does not crack with use. Analysis by X-ray microprobes attached to the SEM showed that most milking machine liners and tubes accumulate Ca, Mg and Cl from milk, Cl and I from cleaning solutions and detritus carried by the cows or in the milking parlour. Silicone rubber showed no such accumulation due to its smooth, nonporous surface. The types and antibiotics sensitivities of microorganisms present on the surfaces and in the cracks of rubber and silastic liners are also discussed briefly.