New sensor generation for conventional GEA rotary milking parlors supports high flow rates and supplies data for digital herd management.
The new GEA Digital Flow Meter measures milk yield directly in the milk flow and is designed for use in conventional GEA rotary milking parlors in combination with the GEA Digital Control Unit. Source: GEA
GEA is launching the Digital Flow Meter, a new generation of milk yield measurement for conventional rotary milking parlors. The sensor captures actual milk yield directly in the milk flow, supports high flow rates, and integrates the measurement data into GEA’s digital system architecture. In doing so, GEA is responding to the increasing performance requirements of modern dairy farms and the growing importance of precise, digitally available data for the milking process, herd management and milk recording. The Digital Flow Meter replaces GEA’s Metatron milk meter.
Precise measurement data for modern milking processes
Measuring directly in the milk flow keeps the milk path consistent and supports a stable, gentle milking process. Thanks to its design and measurement principle, the sensor can accurately capture both low and high milk flows. Its free-flow design avoids bottlenecks in the milk path and keeps the milk moving freely. Flow rates of up to 18 kg per minute, determined under controlled laboratory conditions, demonstrate the sensor’s high performance potential compared with previous systems and its suitability for high-yielding herds. At the same time, its design supports excellent vacuum stability by reliably guiding air and milk volumes throughout the milking process. This contributes to a smooth milking routine and can help prevent disruptions in milk flow. With only a few static, long-lasting seals, the service-friendly design also reduces routine maintenance requirements during ongoing operation.
Digital integration for herd management and milk recording
The Digital Flow Meter provides measurement data for control, herd management and, in the future, additional digital applications. Continuous, high-frequency measurement and data transmission via CAN cable create the basis for setting milking parameters faster and more precisely and for optimizing the milking process for each animal. This also supports more accurate detaching at low milk flows. In addition to milk yield, the sensor captures conductivity and temperature. In combination with sampling, it supports monthly milk recording and provides a data basis for performance tracking, breeding decisions and herd management.
Availability and presentation at EuroTier 2026
The Digital Flow Meter is currently undergoing the ICAR certification process and is initially available for the GEA DairyRotor T8600 and T8900 models. Customers who operate one of these GEA rotary milking parlors or are planning a corresponding system can use the sensor in combination with the GEA Digital Control Unit.
GEA will also present the Digital Flow Meter at EuroTier 2026. The world’s leading trade fair for professional animal farming will take place from November 10 to 13, 2026, in Hanover, Germany. Visitors will find GEA in Hall 13, Booth C25.
Simple, reliable sampling supports monthly milk recording and provides important data for herd management and breeding decisions. Source: GEA
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Lilian Schmalenstroer
About GEA
GEA is one of the world’s largest suppliers of systems and components to the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries.
The international technology group, founded in 1881, focuses on machinery and plants, as well as advanced process technology, components and comprehensive services. For instance, every second pharma separator for essential healthcare products such as vaccines or novel biopharmaceuticals is produced by GEA. In food, every fourth package of pasta or every third chicken nugget are processed with GEA technology.
With more than 18,000 employees, the group generated sales of about EUR 5.5 billion in more than 150 countries in the 2025 fiscal year. GEA plants, processes, components and services enhance the efficiency and sustainability of customers’ production. They contribute significantly to the reduction of CO2 emissions, plastic usage and food waste. In doing so, GEA makes a key contribution toward a sustainable future, in line with the company’s purpose: ”Engineering for a better world.”
GEA is listed on the German DAX, the European STOXX® Europe 600 Index and is also a constituent of the leading sustainability indices DAX 50 ESG, MSCI Global Sustainability and Dow Jones Best-in-Class World.
