Famille Koster: "The milking cluster seems lighter, and we are saving time.”
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Operational data
| Company | Koster family |
| Location | Amstelveen, the Netherlands |
On their dairy farm in Amstelveen, the Koster family milks 140 dairy cows every day in a BouMatic 2×12 herringbone milking parlor with rapid exit, equipped with the Apollo management system. In addition to their dairy activity, they also run holiday cottages as a supplementary business. It is therefore essential to work efficiently in the milking parlor. To make the work easier, the farm decided to install the BouMatic EZ-Arm. This ergonomic hose support by BouMatic is designed to further enhance comfort, milking speed, and milking completeness in parallel milking parlours. “The main reason for us was to make the work easier and save time during milking,” explains Jan Koster.
Quick installation, easy to use
The installation went smoothly. All the arms were installed between the morning and evening milking sessions, allowing the system to be put into operation almost immediately.
“In two to three days, we were completely used to it.”
From the very first milking sessions, several improvements were immediately noticeable.
“We immediately noticed the difference compared to the previous system. We have fewer air leaks, and the milking cluster hangs more straight under the udder.”
Support when attaching the milking cluster
Previously, a hose guide attached to the edge of the pit was used. With the EZ-Arm, a large part of this work is now taken over. The arm carries the milk hose and supports part of the weight of the milking cluster.
“The arm follows the milking cluster very well and even tracks the smallest movements.”
This results in a more stable position of the milking cluster and makes attachment easier. According to Jan Koster, the system works well with all cows, regardless of udder height.
“Whether the udder is high or low, the arm always follows perfectly.”
Less physical strain in the milking parlor
One of the biggest advantages noticed by the Koster family is the reduction of physical effort.
“With the EZ-Arm, the milking cluster feels much lighter. We have less to lift, and it really shows in the shoulders, arms, and back.”
The other milkers on the farm notice the same difference.
“Everyone says it’s very light and easy to milk with.”
Faster and more consistent work
In addition to comfort, the arm also improves efficiency. Since the milking cluster is correctly positioned from the start, attachment is faster.
“Attachment is quicker, and it makes the work in the pit smoother.”
Because the arm positions the cluster the same way every time, the process also becomes more consistent. No additional handling with a hose guide is needed, so nothing can be overlooked.
Reliable and low maintenance
During milking, the arm continues to operate smoothly and responds quickly to the cows’ movements or any unexpected tugs.
“The arm reacts very quickly to everything. It is practically maintenance-free and easy to clean.”
Work comfort immediately noticeable
When Jan Koster sums up the EZ-Arm, the main advantage is clear.
“Work comfort is better, we save time, and the milking cluster feels much lighter during attachment.”
For the Koster family, the conclusion is simple. When asked to rate the system, Jan answers without hesitation:
“9 out of 10. I would recommend it without hesitation to other dairy farmers, especially those with a herringbone milking parlor.”
Discover the EZ-Arm in video, presented by Romain Wolfer.
