Newer baler designs feature adjustable double rollers that are staggered. This allows for a sharper and more aggressive turn of the bale. But most balers now used in the fields are simpler. The simple bar and chain bed system makes submission more consistent and convenient, according to many operators. It also allows you to quickly adjust the size and shape of the wrapped bales.

An important role is played by the power of the baler. In case of its lack, the tractor can pull down and stop the entire process.

Important! The more uniform the feed, the less performance problems and the higher the efficiency. Accordingly, this is how you will make the most efficient use of fuel.

Some models of balers have a “fine cut” option. It reduces the size (length) of forage plants to be packed and increases work efficiency. This is also good for your feed mixers, if you use them, as it will allow for more thorough mixing.

Tips for getting the most out of your baler when wrapping bales with net

The first thing you should always do is to carefully read the instruction manual. You don’t have to neglect it. There is all the necessary information for the most efficient operation on a particular type of equipment. The manual will indicate the points that need to be adjusted, controlled and checked for correct operation. It will also indicate the recommended frequency of maintenance: in the number of wrapped bales or a time interval.

In general, for all balers, the following should be considered and controlled:

• Hydraulic cylinders and hoses (kinked or worn);
• Bearings (wheels, rotors, drums);
• Chains (worn or damaged);
• Clutches and clutch components;
• Drivelines (lubrication, safety items, foreign material);
• Lube recommendations (grease points, gearboxes, etc.);
• Flail replacements (worn or damaged);
• Proper tire pressure;
• Loose or worn bolts and hardware;
• How to make axle adjustments for different terrain;
• How to remove net wrap and twine from the rotor;
• How to make adjustments for processing different crops/conditions;
• Safety checks – shields, guards, highway slow-moving vehicle signs and lights.

The first thing the operator needs to do before starting to wrap the bales with the round bale net wrap is to set the baler parameters according to the material to be packed depending on the material being packed.

For straw and new crop baling, a medium level for cutting and chain speed adjustments is usually best. Some minor adjustments may be made as the work progresses. The use of mulching may allow some of the cutting control bars to be removed. This will shorten the time of wrapping with bale netting.

When working with corn stalks, you can add more rods. The flails will then handle the crop more thoroughly before it enters the wrapping chamber of the rotor.

Important! Keep a close eye on the condition of the chains. This should be done regularly and in relation to the crops you are processing, as the degree and speed of wear depends on it. For example, corn stalks have a greater impact on equipment compared to alfalfa.

When flails lose their square edge, tractor power increases, increasing fuel consumption and reducing stability.

Important! When you change flails, do it in pairs. That is, on both sides of the rotor. This will then ensure the proper balance.

When wrapping bales with the bale net wrap, the rotor usually picks up only 90-95% of the wrapping material. This suggests that every 25-35 bales it is desirable to remove the remnants of the net from the flails. If this is not done, then it will wrap around the flails and will restrict their movement.

Tip: Wrapping temperatures below 0ºF can also reduce bale wrapping performance by affecting gearboxes. It is therefore recommended to let the tractor and baler run idle for a few minutes before starting wrapping. This will warm the oil in the gearbox and improve its operation.

Baler storage at the end of the season

If you’re done with the tying season or just don’t plan to use your baler for a while, you need to prepare it for storage. First of all, the instruction manual will help you to do this correctly.

But there are also important general recommendations for all models:

• remove plant material and hay netting from the rotor;
• remove dirt, grease and other excess materials from the bale chopper with compressed air (do not use steam cleaners or pressure washer!);
• replace worn or broken parts;
• lay the bale chopper down for storage in a dry and sheltered place or cover with a weatherproof protective material;
• if there are areas with worn paint, repaint them to prevent rusting.

Important! All manipulations with the baler should be carried out in accordance with the operation, maintenance and safety manual.