Converted Baler Wraps Bales In Plastic

Converted Baler Wraps Bales In Plastic CROP STORAGE Round Bale Silage 4-2-4 "Cuts spoilage down to practically zero," say company engineers about M & W Gear's new "Raincoat" baler, a big round bale machine that wraps bales in plastic, rather than twine, leaving only the ends exposed to the elements. (Another plasti-wrap baler, produced by Lundell Mfg., Cherokee, Iowa, was featured in FARM SHOW one year ago.) Along with the new-style baler (which is being manufactured for M & W by McKee Mfg.), the company may offer their plasti-wrap system as a retro-fit kit for do-it-yourselfers. Spokesmen say its design will adapt to any belt or roller-type big round baler. According to M & W design engineer, Ken Fackler, the new baler wraps bales "with about three layers of Saran Wrap-like plastic that adheres to itself while holding the bale. No twine is needed. Plastic per bale will range in price from $1.50 to $2.00, and will be more than paid for when spoilage is cut from 20% to practically zero. If you plan on feeding the bales soon after they're made, just turn off the plasti-wrap and wrap them with twine." Ends of the bales are not covered to allow the bale to breathe, yet they're protected when stacked end-to-end. The plastic is 1.5 mil., or about 4.5 mil. total with three layers, points out Fackler. Limited production of the baler is planned for 1980 with full production scheduled for 1981. The proposed retro-fit kit is not yet available. For more information, contact: FARM SHOW Followup, M & W Gear, Route 47 South, Gibson City, Ill. 60936 (ph 217 784-4261, or toll-free 800 637-1144).

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