In the lush green landscapes of Australia, farmers have long been preserving fodder using silage techniques.
Silage Wrap, is also called Bale Wrap or Silage Film. It is a specialized type of silage film and has become an indispensable tool for them. But how does one navigate the maze of products to find the right wrap for their silage wrapping needs?
Introduction to Silage Wrap in Australia
What is Silage?
Silage is the outcome of fermenting green fodder, often softer grasses, under anaerobic conditions. It’s like nature’s own canning mechanism for preserving the nutritional quality of feed.
Why Quality Silage Wrap Matters
In Australia’s varied climatic conditions, having a quality Silage Wrap ensures that the baled silage remains protected. It’s the difference between a simple umbrella and a high-quality raincoat during a downpour.
Choices of Silage Wrap
Mainstream brands: Silotite, Plastag, SilageGuru, Unipak, etc.
Manufacturers: BPI, SilageGuru, Aspla, etc.
Standard Thickness: 20μm, 22μm, 25μm, etc.
Standard Size: 750 mm*1500 m, 500 mm*1800 m, etc.
Types of Silage Film Used in Baling
UV Protected Wraps
In order to suit Australian conditions, these wraps offer high UV protection under 180kly severe climates.
They’re the protective sunglasses for your silage wrap bales, ensuring no quality is lost due to the harsh sun.
Silage Stretch Film
Stretch films are excellent for wrapping round bales. They offer an air-tight seal, ensuring minimal oxygen ingress, and preserving the fodder’s quality. Typically, a 7-layer stretch film of 750mm x 1500m size provides an excellent oxygen barrier.
Benefits of Quality Silage in Silage Wrap Bales
Nutrient Preservation
A quality UV-stabilised especially those with plastic cores, assists in retaining essential nutrients. Think of it as the vacuum-sealed bag that keeps your coffee beans fresh.
Economic Impacts
Baling with a quality film, like a 7-layer silage film, results in fewer breaks during the wrapping process. This leads to cost savings, making it a great economical choice for farmers across Australia.
Techniques in Wrapping Bales
For optimal results, wrapping round bales requires care. The choice of film matters, with UV-stabilised films being ideal for Australian conditions.
Using machinery suitable for the type of bale and crop type is essential. The number of layers, usually around 7 for high performance, can influence the longevity of the stored fodder.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Silage Films
UV Resistance
Given Australia’s strong sunlight, UV resistance is paramount. A film with high UV resistance ensures that the silage bales remain unaffected by the sun’s rays.
Tear and Puncture Resistance
The last thing any farmer wants is their silage film tearing midway through the wrapping process. Opting for films with both tear resistance and puncture resistance guarantees a smooth baling experience.
Pricing Issue
Except for quality products & friendly service, the best price is a KEY for everyone.
It’s always better to compare one to another, but do not be attracted by the incredibly low prices.
Production Technology
The silage wrap can be produced by Blown or Cast technology, which is very difficult to distinguish from the appearance of the silage film.
Based on all the features in common, the KEY to differentiate the Blown & Cast film is: the difference between TD & MD of Blown silage wrap is smaller than 10MPa, while the cast silage wrap will be bigger than 10MPa.
Basically, the two types of silage wrap have no clear difference used for round silage bales.
Australian Conditions and Silage Protection
Australia presents unique challenges, from its intense sun to its varied moisture levels. A Silage Wrap that is UV-stabilised has puncture and tear resistance, and is suited to Australian conditions is crucial. These wraps, when used correctly, prevent moisture and air ingress, providing an ideal environment for baled silage.
Conclusion
The world of Silage Wrap, from silage stretch film to UV-protected varieties, offers Australian farmers a range of options. By considering factors like UV protection, puncture resistance, and suitability for local conditions, they can ensure their feed, hay, and crops remain of high quality.
FAQs
- What’s the importance of UV protection in silage wrap?
- Given Australia’s sunny conditions, UV protection prevents the degradation of the baled silage, preserving its quality.
- How does the quality of the silage wrap affect the feed?
- A quality Silage Wrap, especially one that offers high anti-UV performance, puncture, and tear resistance, ensures minimal nutrient loss and spoilage.
- Why are there different films for round and square bales?
- Round and square bales have different structural needs. The right film ensures an air-tight seal and optimal protection.
- How does moisture affect silage bales?
- Excessive moisture can cause spoilage. Quality silage film prevents moisture ingress, preserving the feed’s quality.
- Are there recycling options for used silage wraps in Australia?
- Yes, many regions in Australia have recycling programs for silage films. It’s essential to dispose of them responsibly.
- What distinguishes a 7-layer silage film from other films?
- A 7-layer film offers multiple layers of protection, each designed to provide specific benefits like UV resistance, tear resistance, and excellent oxygen barriers. This layered approach ensures a high-quality wrap suitable for various conditions.
- How often should I check the wrapped bales for any damage or spoilage?
- It’s advisable to inspect your wrapped bales every few weeks, especially after severe weather events. Regular checks help in identifying and rectifying issues before they escalate, ensuring the quality of the silage is maintained.
- Why is silage stretch film recommended for wrapping round bale?
- Silage stretch film is designed to stretch and adhere securely around round bales, ensuring an air-tight seal. This quality prevents oxygen ingress, which is crucial for the anaerobic fermentation process required for silage.
- How can I ensure the best tear and puncture resistance when selecting a Silage Wrap?
- When choosing a silage wrap, it’s essential to go for renowned brands that have been tested for Australian conditions. Checking product specifications, and user reviews, and seeking recommendations from fellow farmers can also help. When using a new product, make sure the film is tested on your wrappers.
- Is there a specific time of day best suited for wrapping silage in Australia?
- While there isn’t a strict time, many farmers prefer wrapping in the cooler parts of the day, either early morning or late afternoon, to reduce the effects of heat on the wrapping process and to ensure optimal adhesion of the film.
- When looking for a supplier with great customer service, what should I consider regarding the Silage Wrap they offer?
- Consider suppliers that not only offer excellent customer interactions but also provide a comprehensive product range that caters to varying needs and is specifically manufactured to suit Australian conditions.
- I’ve heard some wraps come with a plastic core. What are the advantages of this feature?
- A plastic core provides added durability to the roll, preventing damage during handling and ensuring that the wrap remains intact and free from contaminants.
- With so many wrapping products available in the market, how can I determine which one is right for my farm?
- It’s crucial to research and understand the product range offered by suppliers. Look for wraps that have been manufactured keeping in mind Australia’s unique conditions and your specific needs. For further information, consulting experts or other farmers can also assist.
- How do green practices in the manufacture of silage wraps impact their quality and performance?
- Wraps that are manufactured with green practices often ensure sustainable, environmentally friendly production without compromising on quality. Such wraps tend to have high-level performance features like tack, UV resistance, and durability.
- What advice can you offer about the storage and delivery of silage wrap rolls?
- For optimal storage, keep silage wrap rolls in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight. When considering delivery, choose suppliers that guarantee timely delivery, especially if you’re in a remote location.
- How does the tack level of a silage wrap affect its performance, especially for wrapping round bales?
- The tack level determines the wrap’s stickiness. A higher tack ensures the layers of wrap adhere well to each other, creating an airtight seal, especially crucial for round bales.
- Is there a difference in the pack sizes available for silage wrap rolls?
- Yes, silage wrap rolls come in various pack sizes to cater to different farm sizes and requirements. Consulting with the supplier will assist in choosing the right pack for your needs.
- How do I ensure I’m getting a wrap that offers a high level of puncture resistance for round and square bales?
- Look for wraps within the product range that highlight features like puncture and tear resistance, ensuring the wrap remains intact irrespective of the bale’s shape.
- Where can I get further information about the range of silage wraps suitable for Australian conditions?
- For detailed information, consult with suppliers known for their comprehensive product range tailored for Australia, attend local agricultural workshops, or visit specialized websites dedicated to farming in Australia.
- I’ve noticed some wraps are tackier than others. How does this affect the wrapping process?
- Tackier wraps ensure better sealing as layers stick firmly. This is beneficial in creating an oxygen barrier, especially vital in the fermentation process of silage.
