Various equipment and materials ensure crops are adequately protected and secure in the agricultural industry. Two such items are net wrap and baler twine, both commonly used to bind bales of hay or straw. Both net wrap and twine have their unique benefits and drawbacks that should be considered when deciding which one to use.
Net Wrap or Baler Twine Cost
Generally, net wrap bales will be more expensive than those bound with twine. Both on material cost and wrapping cost.
The net wrap itself is more costly and requires special equipment. Whereas twine can be used by hand, net wrap needs to be applied with a machine.
Net wrapping bales tend to be more uniform in shape and size, which can be advantageous if you sell your hay by the ton. Net wrap or twine? Let’s discuss which one is better.
Net Wrap Or Baler Twine
Net wrap is a relatively new invention when compared to twine. The bale is completely wrapped in a netting material with a net wrap. This has several advantages over twine. However, baling twine has been around for much longer and is the Cheaper option. There are many significant factors to consider when debating which one is better.
Baling
The net wrap goes around the bale and completely covers it. This offers more protection to the hay, as there are no gaps for wind or rain to get in. The twine is tied around the bale, leaving gaps where the hay is exposed. This can cause the hay to rot if it gets wet. Round bales wrapped in a net wrap tend to keep their shape better as the netting hugs the bale tightly.
Net wrap balers also have the advantage of being able to bail wetter hay. This is because the netting material can stretch, which allows it to accommodate a giant bale. Twine will break if you try to bail wet grass with it, as it is not as flexible.
Baling Cost
Net wrap is more expensive than twine, both in terms of the materials and the equipment required to apply it. A net wrap system costs you more to make, as you need to buy the netting material and use a machine to apply it. Twine can be applied by hand, which makes it a cheaper option. Net-wrapped alfalfa bales can also be more difficult to break apart by hand, as the netting can be tough to cut through.
Wrapping losses were also significantly higher for net wrap bales. This is because the netting material is more expensive and can be challenging to apply evenly. If you use a machine to apply the net wrap, you will need to avoid wrinkles and gaps. Twine can be applied more loosely, as it doesn’t need to be stretched to fit around the bale.
Lower Outdoor Storage Losses
Net wrap bales also have the advantage of being more resistant to storage losses. This is because the netting material protects the hay from weather and pests. Baler Twine does not offer as much protection as it is made of a natural fiber that can rot if it gets wet. In many cases, it’s been shown that net-wrapped bales experience reduced outdoor storage losses. However, inside storage is the best option for both types of bales rather than outdoor storage, but net wrap bales are stored outside for a more extended time without rotting.
Pest problems were also significantly lower for net wrap balers. This is because the netting material keeps pests from being able to get to the hay. Large round bale storage stacks tend to be more stable when wrapped in netting. The net wrap material holds the bales together tightly, preventing them from toppling over.
Other Pros Of Net Wrap
Net wrap bales also have the advantage of being easier to transport. The net wrap material keeps the bales together tightly, preventing them from shifting during transport. Plastic twine does not offer as much protection as it is made of a natural fiber that can be easily broken. If you are selling hay by the ton, net-wrapped bales will also weigh more. This is because the netting material hugs the bale tightly, preventing it from losing its shape.
Ease of Use
Net wrap is easier to use than twine. This is because the netting material can be applied by machine, making it faster and easier to apply. Twine also can be finished by balers, however, with low efficiency.
Net wrapp bales also have the advantage of being more uniform, as the netting material holds them together tightly. Plastic twine-wrapped bales can also be more difficult to break apart by hand, as the twine can be tough to cut through.
Easier To Transport
Net wrap is much easier to transport than twine. It is lighter and can be carried in a smaller space. This makes it ideal for farmers who have to move their equipment around frequently or don’t have a lot of storage space.
Low moisture-wrapped silage bales can also be transported without fear of falling apart and spilling their contents. Nets also protect silage from shed rainfall, wind, and snow. This is important because it can help keep the grass fresh for extended periods. In contrast, twine-wrapped bales can be more susceptible to weather damage.
Less Fuel And Labor Costs
Net wrapped bales have the advantage saves fuel and labor to produce. This is because the netting material can be applied by machine faster and easier than using twined wrapped bales by hand. Bale integrity is also improved with net wrap, as the material holds the bales together tightly. This results in less wasted hay, as bales are less likely to be damaged during transport or storage by hay producers. Net wrap balers also have the advantage of producing more giant bales, as the size of the bale chamber does not limit them.
Improved Water Shedding Ability
Net round bales have the advantage of shedding water better than twine-wrapped bales. This is because the netting material is less absorbent than twine, and it also protects the bales from weather damage. In contrast, twine-wrapped bales can absorb water, leading to storage problems and frozen twine hay loss. Sisal twine is particularly susceptible to this problem, as it is made of a natural fiber that can absorb water.
Less Damaged Bales
Usually, fewer bales are damaged when stored in under-covered storage and wrapped in netting than those kept in uncovered storage and wrapped in twine. The netting material protects the bales from weather damage, while twine does not and results in significantly greater productivity. In addition, the dry hay inside the bale is less likely to come into contact with moisture when it is wrapped in netting, which can lead to mold growth. Deciding between net wrap or twine depends on the farmer’s needs and preferences.
Cons of Net Wrap Compared To Baler Twine
Net wrap, compared to twine, has some apparent disadvantages. Large round bales are more expensive than twine, requiring special equipment. Some other disadvantages include:
Difficult To Remove From Bale
A net wrap can be challenging to remove from a bale, as it is made of a synthetic material that clings to the outside hay rind. This can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially if you try to remove the netting. Large round bales wrapped in a net can also be difficult to unwrap, as the netting material can be tight and hard to cut through.
Can Be Harmful To Animals
If animals ingest net wrap, it can be harmful to their health. The synthetic material can cause digestive problems and become entangled in the animal’s intestines. In contrast, twine is made of a natural fiber that is not as harmful to animals if they ingest it. Before feeding animals wrapped in hay bales, net wrap or twine should be removed.
Degrades Quickly In Sunlight
Net wrap degrades quickly when exposed to sunlight. This is because the synthetic material is not as durable as twine, and it can also become brittle and break easily. This can be a problem if you store bales outdoors, as they will need to be replaced more often. Outdoor hay storage results in excessive moisture, which causes mold and fermentation. Storing hay inside in case of intense sunlight is advised. Typically, netting will only last for one storage season before it needs to be replaced.
Environmentally Unfriendly
Net wrap is not as environmentally friendly as twine, as it is made of a synthetic material that is not biodegradable. This means that it will stay in the environment for a long time after it is discarded, and it can also pollute the soil and water. With proper disposal, however, this environmental impact can be minimized.
Injury Risk
A net wrap can be dangerous, as it can slice skin if it is not handled correctly. This is because the synthetic material is very sharp, and it can also become entangled in clothing or hair. When removing net wrap from a bale, it is essential to use gloves and long sleeves to protect your skin.
Less Forgiving
Net wrap is less forgiving than twine, as it is less likely to stretch or give when applied. This can make it challenging to apply, as you need to be careful not to over-tighten the netting bale integrity. If you do not have experience using netting wrap, it is recommended that you practice on a few bales before using it on a larger scale. If you are confused between net wrap or twine, you can always consult with your local hay supplier.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the net wrap has many advantages over baler twine, but it also has disadvantages. Overall, net wrap is more expensive and less environmentally friendly than twine. However, it is also more durable and easier to apply. If you consider using a net wrap, weigh the pros and cons before deciding.
