A SHROPSHIRE dairy firm has launched the world’s first expandable milk cooling silo.

Fabdec’s new HI-KOOL tank can grow upwards as dairy herds increase in size to accommodate higher milk production. This comes ahead of next year’s end of milk quotas, when some dairy farmers may plan to increase capacity.

This means that rather than lose out on initial investment, producers can add on more volume up to a total of 40,000 litres.

With more dairy herds growing in size, Fabdec’s chief engineer, Lee Chamberlain, said the ability to increase capacity will provide greater flexibility for farmers.

“Should the need arise, our engineers can come out and simply add on more storage capacity in situ. The vertical design also helps save on space,” he said.

The HI-KOOL starts at 20,000 litres and can be expanded in different multiples. Dairy farmers also have the option of installing an alcove. This means the silo, which is positioned outside, can be accessed from inside the adjacent building.

“This removes the need to put a lockable cabinet outside and means the milk delivery pipe can be run inside, avoiding problems with freezing in the winter,” explained Mr Chamberlain.”

He added: “The Hi-KOOL is not an adapted silo technology. It has been specifically designed for the farm, to meet the needs of the farmer.”