Feed & TMR Equipment
Part of Nutrition and Feed
What Is TMR Feeding Equipment?
Total Mixed Ration (TMR) equipment blends forages, grains, minerals, and supplements into a homogeneous ration that provides consistent nutrition in every bite. TMR mixers range from simple vertical mixers to sophisticated horizontal systems with weighing and loading automation. The goal is to deliver the nutritionist's formula accurately and efficiently.
Why TMR Matters
Compared to component feeding (where cows select from separate ingredients), TMR ensures every cow receives the intended balance of nutrients. This prevents sorting behavior, improves feed efficiency, and supports consistent milk production. Modern TMR systems also provide data on what's actually fed versus the recipe.
Key Benefits
- Consistent nutrition: Every bite contains the balanced ration
- Reduced sorting: Proper mixing prevents cows from selecting preferred ingredients
- Better feed efficiency: Precise formulation minimizes waste
- Improved production: Consistent nutrition supports stable milk output
- Labor efficiency: Mechanized mixing and delivery reduces hand labor
Types of TMR Mixers
Vertical Mixers
Single or multiple vertical augers mix ingredients in an upright drum. These are popular for small to medium herds (100-500 cows), offering good mixing with moderate cost. They handle long hay well and are relatively simple to maintain.
Horizontal Mixers
Horizontal augers or paddles mix ingredients in a trough-style body. These excel at processing dry hay and creating uniform mixes. Often used in larger operations where mixing quality is critical.
Reel/Drum Mixers
Rotating drum tumbles ingredients for mixing. Less common for dairy TMR but used in some applications.
Stationary vs. Portable
Stationary mixers stay in one location with feed delivered via conveyors or trucks. Portable mixer-wagons travel to feed storage, mix on board, and deliver directly to bunks.
Key Features to Consider
Scale Systems
Accurate weighing is essential for ration precision. Look for load cells with digital displays, data recording, and connectivity to management software.
Mixing Capacity
Mixer size should match your feeding routine. Consider total ration weight per batch and time available for mixing/feeding.
Auger/Knife Design
Auger style affects mixing quality and ingredient processing. Some mixers include knives for hay processing; consider your forage sources when selecting.
Automation Options
Advanced systems offer automated ingredient loading, recipe management, and feed-to-weight recording. These features add cost but improve accuracy and data collection.
Do You Need New Mixing Equipment?
Consider upgrading if:
- Current mixer doesn't achieve uniform mixing (visible sorting at the bunk)
- Weighing system is inaccurate or unreliable
- Capacity is insufficient for herd size
- Maintenance costs are escalating on aging equipment
- You want better data on what's actually being fed
Cost Considerations
Vertical mixer-wagons range from $50,000-150,000 depending on size and features. Horizontal mixers may cost more for equivalent capacity. Stationary systems with automated loading can exceed $300,000. Consider cost per cow capacity and expected lifespan when comparing options.