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Scanning Electron Microscopy, A Technique for Evaluating Milking Machine Inflations and Tubes

Department of Zoology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602

Daniel O. Noorlander

508 West 630 Street Orem, UT 84057

ABSTRACT

Scanning electron microscopy is an effective tool for evaluation of inner surfaces of milking machine inflations and milk tubes. It can show differences in formulation of inflations and use. There were prominent differences among inner surfaces of new rubber inflations from different methods of manufacture and formulation. Silastic,® a silicone rubber, appeared to have a smooth inner surface even after use while inner surfaces of rubber inflations showed cracks and depressions which became more prominent with use. Potential habitats for harmful bacteria can be demonstrated. Inner surfaces of rubber inflations after 1000 milkings contained deep cracks and caverns. At 5000 milkings bacteria were common in these openings of the inner surfaces of rubber inflations.