i7 



In choosing a separator it is advisable to select one with a capacity 

 somewhat larger than is required for immediate use. The feed tap may 

 then be slightly closed, and the skimming done with the separator running 

 a little below its capacity. This makes a favorable condition lor the sep- 

 arator to do close skimming, and also for the production of a rich cream 

 which is so desirable at the present time. All, except the smallest sized 

 machines, are so constructed that they may be connected with power and 

 much labor may be saved m this way. The most common power in use 

 is the tread power. It may be run by any farm animal with good satis- 

 faction. A small gasoline engine is also a very efficient power where the 

 separating room can be placed at a suitable distance from the barn, to 

 avoid any possible danger of fire. There is also danger of tainting the 

 cream from the odor of the gasoline. 



There are many different makes of separators on the market at the 

 present time, but which is the best it is impossible to say, as no one 

 separator comprises within itself all the points of merit that the ideal might 

 possess. The best separators might be described as those best suited to 

 the special conditions under which they are to be used. It may be that 

 the less capable of two separators is the better, for the reason that it may 

 have advantages and conveniences which at first might seem of little 

 importance, yet be of great value in the peculiar circumstances under 

 which it is to be used. For example, the closest skimming separator may 

 be more difficult to operate, more inconvenient to clean, or possess other 

 disadvantages in its mechanism less desirable than a machine which skims 

 less closely, and these diadvantages may more than counterbalance its 

 closer skimming power. A hand separator may be considered to be doing 

 good work, when, running at its full capacity, it will produce a cream 

 testing over 30 per cent, fat, and leave not more than one-tenth of a per 

 cent. (.1) of fat in the skim-milk, or a reading not extending over one 

 space, in the graduated neck of a skim-milk test bottle. 



The points of merit which a separator should possess are : 



1. Simplicity and strength of construction. 



2. Cheapness and durability. 



3. Maximum capacity with minimum power required to turn. 



4. Closeness of separation. 



5. Desirable richness of cream. 



6. Ease of cleaning. 



With each separator is sent a book containing full directions for set- 

 ting up, and operating the machine. This should be carefully read be- 

 fore removing the machine from the box. A suitable place for setting it 

 up should then be chosen, care being taken to select one that is well ven- 

 tilated, and where a pure atmosphere can at all times be assured. It is most 

 convenient to have the separator in the barn, as it saves the labor of carry- 

 ing the milk to the house and the skim-milk back to the barn, but the prac- 

 tice of allowing it to occupy a stall in the stable is very objectionable, on 

 account of the injurious effect on the flavor of the cream, and injury to 

 the machine due to dust and dirt getting into the bearings. 



