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Project overview

For this 250-cow dairy farm, including 113 in lactation, the transition to the next generation, led by two sisters and one of their spouses, was guided by a clear vision: modernize operations to improve efficiency… without compromising their quality of life.

A natural transition to an automated feed kitchen

In 2023, the farm reached a major milestone with the addition of an automated feed kitchen. This strategic decision was made easier by the presence of Valmetal feeding conveyors already installed in 2012 and still in excellent condition.

Rather than starting from scratch, the new system was built around the existing equipment, maximizing the initial investment while ensuring a smooth and sustainable transition.

A flexible solution that transforms everyday operations

This project perfectly illustrates how automation can transform a farming operation, while seamlessly adapting to the realities of existing facilities.

Listen to their full success story

 

More frequent, more precise, and higher-performing feeding

More frequent, more precise, and higher-performing feeding

With the new system, rations are distributed three times a day, ensuring freshness and palatability.

The benefits were quickly observed:

  • Increased feed intake
  • Improved milk production
  • Greater precision and consistency in ration preparation, thanks to automated weighing of silage and micro-ingredients

Designed to support the farm’s growth, the automated feed kitchen can easily adapt to herd expansion, up to three times the current size.

Up to 4 hours saved… every day!

Up to 4 hours saved… every day!

One of the most significant impacts of feed automation is the considerable time savings. The owners estimate they have freed up approximately 4 hours per day, previously spent on repetitive tasks.

That time is now reinvested in:

  • Higher-value tasks on the farm
  • Improved operational management
  • And, most importantly, a better quality of life

They now have more time for family and friends, greater flexibility to delegate, and the freedom to enjoy time away from the farm.

Energy performance and equipment optimization

Energy performance and equipment optimization

The project was also designed with energy efficiency in mind. The goal was to use the smallest motors possible to optimize the existing electrical panel.

The results:

  • Main motor limited to 20 HP
  • Use of a variable frequency drive (VFD) to eliminate power spikes
  • Noticeable reduction in electricity consumption
Significant savings and environmental impact

Significant savings and environmental impact

Since installation, the owners of Ferme Filiale have achieved substantial savings:

  • Up to 18,000 liters of diesel saved annually
  • One tractor now retired from use
  • Over 50 tons of greenhouse gas emissions reduced per year
Simplified maintenance

Simplified maintenance

System maintenance is minimal and straightforward, resulting in savings in time, labor, and maintenance costs:

  • One major maintenance period in winter
  • One preventive maintenance cycle in summer

Additionally, tractor maintenance has been significantly reduced. Previously, oil changes were required every 4 to 6 weeks, now, they are far less frequent.

A seamless transition with no operational downtime

A seamless transition with no operational downtime

The system installation was carried out smoothly, without ever interrupting farm operations, ensuring continuous productivity and maintaining animal well-being.

Smart management, even remotely

Smart management, even remotely

Thanks to the mobile app, system adjustments can be made at any time, directly from a smartphone. This provides flexibility, responsiveness, and peace of mind in day-to-day operations.

Milking cows
250
Location
Saint-Ludger, Quebec
Dealer
Équipements de ferme Haute-Beauce

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