Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-07-28 Origin: Site
Feeding livestock with a Total Mixed Ration (TMR) has become a standard practice in modern animal agriculture, especially in dairy and beef operations. A TMR ensures that each mouthful an animal eats contains the correct balance of fiber, protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals. To achieve this uniform blend of feed ingredients, choosing the right mixing equipment is essential—and that’s where the vertical TMR mixer plays a central role.
However, not all vertical TMR mixers are the same. Selecting the right model depends on several key factors, particularly herd size and the type of feed ingredients you plan to use. The wrong choice can result in poor mixing performance, inefficient feeding routines, or equipment that doesn’t suit your long-term needs.
This guide explains what a vertical TMR mixer is, how it works, and what you should consider when selecting a model that fits your farm’s size, feed materials, and feeding strategies.
A vertical TMR mixer is a feed-mixing machine designed to combine different ingredients—such as silage, hay, grains, and supplements—into one complete ration. It uses one or more vertical augers, which are spiral-shaped screws that rotate to lift, tumble, and mix feed materials inside a large mixing chamber.
This lifting motion helps achieve a uniform mix while preserving the structure of fibrous materials like long-stem hay. Vertical mixers are known for being gentle, efficient, and capable of handling a wide variety of feed textures. They are commonly used on dairy farms, beef feedlots, and other livestock operations where consistency in nutrition is critical.
Every farm is different. The number of animals, the type of feed you use, the amount of space available, and even the type of tractor you own all influence which mixer will work best. Choosing the wrong vertical mixer could lead to:
Incomplete mixing of feed ingredients
Overloading or underutilizing the mixer
Wasted feed and higher operating costs
Increased wear and tear on equipment
To avoid these issues, you need to carefully evaluate your herd size and feed type before purchasing a vertical TMR mixer.
The most important starting point is determining the correct mixer capacity for your herd. Mixer capacity is usually measured in cubic meters (m³) or in pounds/kilograms of feed it can handle in one batch.
Here’s a simple approach:
If you operate a small farm with 50 to 100 head of cattle, you’ll likely need a small to mid-size vertical mixer, typically in the range of 5–10 cubic meters.
Why it works: You don’t need to mix huge amounts of feed at once. A smaller mixer allows for quick mixing and feeding without excess energy use.
Tips: Make sure the mixer can still process roughages like hay or baled silage if you include them in your ration.
For medium-sized operations, look at mixers with capacities between 10–20 cubic meters.
Why it works: A mid-sized mixer allows you to prepare larger batches or feed different groups in fewer trips.
Tips: Consider mixers with twin augers to help move heavy or sticky materials more efficiently.
Larger farms require high-capacity mixers—often 20–30+ cubic meters—to handle large volumes of feed.
Why it works: You’ll be feeding in bulk, so time savings and batch consistency are essential.
Tips: Look into self-propelled or stationary models for even greater efficiency.
Important: Always factor in feed density. Silage weighs more than dry hay. The same mixer may hold less silage by volume than chopped hay, so don't rely on volume alone. Ask the manufacturer for guidance based on your ration's typical bulk density.
The second major consideration is the type of feed ingredients you plan to include in your ration. Vertical mixers are known for handling fibrous and rough materials well, but some configurations are better suited for certain tasks.
If your rations contain whole or baled hay, your mixer needs to be capable of chopping and blending these materials without clogging.
What to look for: A vertical mixer with high-quality knives on the augers and a robust gear system.
Single vs. Twin Auger: Single augers may work for small loads, but twin augers improve cutting action and speed for larger bales.
Silage, both corn and grass-based, is commonly used in TMR. It's heavy, moist, and sometimes sticky.
What to look for: A mixer with strong auger strength and smooth interior walls to reduce build-up.
Tips: Pay attention to discharge systems—wet silage mixes may require improved slide gates or conveyor belts.
Grains and powdered supplements are much lighter and prone to settling if not mixed well.
What to look for: Augers with good lifting action to prevent separation and ensure even distribution of fine materials.
If you include feed byproducts like beet pulp, distillers' grains, or liquid supplements, your mixer should be equipped to blend different textures and moisture levels.
What to look for: Flexibility in design, possibly with liquid injection ports or improved knives for semi-wet materials.
In addition to herd size and feed type, there are a few more things to keep in mind when choosing a vertical TMR mixer:
Do you need a stationary, trailer-type, or self-propelled mixer?
Stationary: Best for centralized feeding systems; often used with conveyors or bunk feeders.
Trailer: Most popular on medium farms; towed by tractor and suitable for on-the-go feeding.
Self-Propelled: Ideal for large farms with long feeding routes and multiple groups.
Make sure the machine is simple to load, operate, and clean. Check for:
Hydraulic controls
Digital scales and programmable batching
Easy discharge options (side door, front conveyor, etc.)
If you’re choosing a PTO-powered mixer, check your tractor’s horsepower. A mixer that’s too large may require more power than your existing equipment can supply.
Feeding is a daily task. Look for mixers built with:
Heavy-duty augers and bearings
Corrosion-resistant steel
Reinforced chassis and blades
A well-built mixer not only lasts longer but also reduces downtime and repair costs.
Don't Overbuy or Underbuy: It’s tempting to get the biggest mixer “just in case,” but overbuying may waste fuel and mixing time. On the other hand, too small a mixer will lead to more trips and overworked equipment.
Focus on Uniformity: Watch how well a mixer combines ingredients. Ask for a live demo if possible.
Ask About Support: Choose a brand or dealer that provides solid after-sales service and parts availability.
Plan for Growth: If your herd will grow significantly over the next few years, consider buying a mixer with some extra capacity to avoid needing a replacement too soon.
Selecting the right vertical TMR mixer doesn’t need to be complicated. By considering your herd size, the types of feed ingredients, and your operational workflow, you can find a machine that delivers the perfect mix—every time. A well-chosen vertical mixer boosts feeding efficiency, reduces labor, minimizes feed waste, and improves overall herd performance.
If you're looking for a reliable, durable, and high-performing vertical TMR mixer, Qingdao JointTech Machinery Inc. is a trusted name in the industry. With years of experience in manufacturing livestock feeding equipment, they offer a wide range of vertical mixers tailored to meet the demands of farms both large and small. Their products are built with quality materials and designed to ensure consistent mixing, ease of operation, and long-term durability. Whether you're just getting started or upgrading your equipment, Qingdao JointTech Machinery Inc. can help you find the perfect solution for your feeding needs.
