Silage wrap is a plastic film that covers hay or straw bales for preservation. It is a valuable tool to prevent spoilage and help farmers save on feed costs.
Before wrapping, ensure the forage is harvested correctly and compacted to minimize air pockets and maximize density. Also, remove any debris that might puncture the film. For more information about silage wrap suppliers, click here.
It Prevents Oxygen Ingress
Aerobic bacteria carry out the preservation process in a silage bale, which requires oxygen. The more oxygen the bacteria have, the faster they will work, resulting in loss of sugars and dry matter and a lower nutritional value for the silage. An oxygen barrier film can cut this loss by up to 20%.
During the wrapping process, the wrap should be applied tightly around each silage bale to create an airtight seal and prevent oxygen ingress. Ensuring the bales are clean and free from sharp objects that could puncture or damage the wrap is also essential. The proper tension should also be used to provide a tight and secure seal.
A good quality silage wrap can protect your forage against harsh environmental conditions while discouraging weeds from growing in the crop. This helps save on costs and gives you a better return on your investment by having more quality feed available for your livestock.
The Grass Cuvva 5 Silage Wrap is a high-tack plastic film available in a one or 1.5-millimetre thickness and has been engineered to suit the harsh Australian climate. This film is suitable for use with all the Paddock Machinery bale wrappers range. It has been designed to provide excellent puncture and tear resistance and prevent oxygen ingress.
It Prevents Heat Accumulation
Silage wrap can prevent the formation of harmful bacteria that can spoil the feed for livestock. It also protects birds and weather, which can reduce the nutritional value of hay and straw, and it discourages weed growth and other environmental hazards. Combined with PolyMax Bunk Top Covers, this film can provide even more excellent protection from animal damage and weather, making it an essential tool for preventing premature feed degradation.
The primary function of silage wrap is to limit the availability of oxygen inside the bale, preserving the nutritional value of the forage. This is because hay and straw spoil when microorganisms are active, consuming nutrients as they respire and create heat. By limiting available oxygen, the organisms will go dormant and cause a lack of heat production.
Choosing the correct film for your specific needs is essential. Look for a puncture-resistant blown stretch film designed explicitly for crop application with UV protection, strength and durability. A good choice will have low-temperature resistance, a high viscosity, and an excellent low-strength bond.
Regardless of which method of wrapping you choose, it is essential to ensure the forage you use for silage meets optimal moisture requirements to achieve controlled anaerobic fermentation. This will ensure the highest quality of finished product and a better supply of nutritious feed for livestock.
It Prevents Bird Damage
When wrapped correctly, silage wrap can help preserve hay or straw bales for winter feed, preventing spoilage and maintaining the crop’s nutritional value until it is ready to be converted into animal feed. A suitable wrap can also help protect the produce from the elements and pests.
When choosing a silage wrap, look for one with an appropriate thickness and strength. A good quality film will be thick enough to resist oxygen penetration and allow the crop to ferment in an oxygen-free environment, resulting in higher yields of premium silage. The thickness of the plastic will also be a factor in its ability to resist tearing and puncture.
Birds are a significant cause of damage to bales. A specialist wrap, such as Volac Silanet, can help prevent this. These settings are designed to be placed over stacks of bales, keeping birds away from them while allowing for easy harvesting access. This is especially important in wet conditions, where a net will protect against rot or mould and allow for easier haymaking and less risk of damage to the bales.
A quality silage wrap will also have high UV stability and puncture resistance. It should be suitable for use in various weather conditions, from sunny to rainy and even snowy. It should also be easy to use and tear, lasting 18 months or more when stored correctly.
It Prevents Liquid Penetration
A silage wrap prevents liquid penetration from the bale’s surface, which protects the forage from rot and keeps harmful bacteria and mould away. This prevents spoilage, which can lower hay quality and reduce feed costs for livestock. It also helps farmers preserve the nutrients in grass and hay by promoting controlled anaerobic fermentation, which can help them sell their forage more efficiently. For more information about silage wrap suppliers, click here.