When using Round Bale Netwrap, a few moments, must be taken to ensure correct preparation of your machine in order to achieve the best results. The most common problems of net splitting, tearing or fouling on feed rollers arise from the net ‘laddering’, where threads become broken, leading to a running stitch in the net running opposite to the direction of the net, eventually causing the net to separate where the ‘ladder’ has occurred. This can be caused by many different and varying circumstances but will always have the same effect. ‘ladder’

Check that the area in which the roll sits is free from dirt and debris. Ensure that all metal surfaces the net comes into contact with are free from rust or sharp edges or weld spots (net box sides, spreader bars and rollers etc.), or dried paint ‘lumps’ on any surfaces which could damage the net.. Clean-up with emery paper if necessary. Also, check that the path for the net to the bale behind the feed mechanism is not dirty or rusty which could restrict the net’s passage when feeding - often identified by a ‘lump’ of net at the start of the wrapping cycle.

This is especially important when starting baling after winter storage.

Ensure the net is threaded correctly. Incorrect feeding of the net will cause incorrect tension being applied, leading to feeding and cutting difficulties which, in turn will cause problems on subsequent net feed cycle. Where the net is fed through a series of fixed tension bars, always make sure these are clean and polished to avoid excessive friction.

Excessive net friction or an un-even surface will cause the net to tear.

Where two rollers are used to feed the net it is imperative these are correctly aligned and tensioned against one another, to enable the net to feed in evenly and under the correct tension. Incorrectly aligned rollers will produce a corresponding un-even net feed and, subsequent cutting action at the end of the wrapping cycle. This will result in poor bale coverage and possible net fouling on the feed rollers at the start of the next cycle. The rollers’ surface should also be closely inspected for abrasions or damage, which could snag the net when feeding.

Ensure the feed rollers are clean of any moisture or residue.

NEVER use an aggressive cleaning agent such as petrol or turpentine to clean rubber roller.

Always dust rubber rollers down with French chalk or talc powder when loading a new roll of netwrap, or use anti-static spray to reduce net static when operating.

This avoids the net fouling and wrapping around the rollers when feeding in.

Carefully inspect the condition of the belt joiners on variable chamber balers for damage or worn connections, as this will snag the net and cause a tear, which will split the net on the bale.

Make sure the knife or cutting surface is clean and un-damaged. Poor cutting action will result in an un-even ‘tail’ to the net, which can become tangled in the rollers and feed mechanism.