Performance of Large Balers for Collecting Rice Straw
ABSTRACT Alarge rectangular baler was tested and evaluated for application in harvesting rice straw. Baler performance is compared to that of big roll balers and other handling systems. Large bale systems offer economic advantages over small rectangular bale systems. Large rectangular bales are excellent for transport but must be provided with covered storage to avoid spoilage. Big roll bales are less desirable for long distance transport but can be left in uncovered storage without excessive dry matter loss. Total delivered cost of straw depends on packaging system, transporation distance, processing requirements, and utilization mode.