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The baling of early, bulky cuts of silage is still regarded as more costly and time consuming than clamping. In an effort to cut the amount of resources (and therefore cost) needed to produce wrapped bales from two to three men with baler, loader and wrapper, to a single operation with one worker, a number of machinery manufacturer have launched baler/wrappers. These manufacturers are venturing into previously unexplored areas and the result means the unwrapped bale never has to touch the bare ground again. Martin Rickatson, deputy editor with specialist machinery magazine Profi International, says this new machinery delivers benefits to animal health, animal production and cost reduction. “Any reduction in soil contact has to be a positive development,” he says. “Soil contact reduces the quality of the fermentation and introduces potentially harmful organisms into the bale, so this will help silage quality. Manpower requirements should also be significantly reduced.” He adds that bales can often start to ‘slump’ between baling and wrapping, leaving a more difficult shape to wrap cleanly and effectively. Immediate wrapping negates this. However, Mr. Rickatson also points out that many mechanical developments ultimately try to minimise operator error. “At the end of the day, human failure is where most problems occur. Bad bale handling scoops up earth with bales and punctures wrap, and poor settings under or overstretch wrap, both of which cause holes and splits. “Making baling and wrapping as foolproof as possible is the biggest development anyone could make!” |
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