Bale types & Sizes

In the 1960s, hay and straw were baled in small HD bales (W:46 x H:36cm x L:100cm) with a typical weight of 10–15kg. In the 1970s, large round balers were introduced on the market and were a part of the ongoing agricultural mechanization process.

In the 1980s, large square balers were introduced, and the most common bale types/sizes on the market are:

Round bale Ø120 – Ø180vm / W:120cm – typical weight 200 – 300kg – density approx. 85kg/m3
Hesston square bale H:130cm / W:120cm / L:220 – 260cm – typical weight 400 – 550kg – Density approx. 135 kg/3 – Tied with 6 strings
Krone square bale H:90cm / W:120cm / L:220 – 260cm – typical weight 400 – 600kg – density approx. 190kg/m3 tied with 6 strings – density approx. 230kg/m3 tied with 8 strings
Class square bale H:70cm / W:120cm / L:220 – 260cm – typical weight 275 – 350kg – Tied with 6 strings.

There are several advantages of using large square bales for biomass plants

Large square bales are the most efficient because of their high density and ability to store and transport in high amounts with minimum spillage, mainly to the gaps between the bales.

Round bales are predominantly for “on-farm” use. The high density of the square bales also reduces water penetration, and this is important because large amounts of water in bales are crucial for any process and can create blockages in the process line.

Furthermore, the use of square bales ensures:
·        Faster baling in the field.
·        Easy handling in the field
·        Full fitting on truck = optimum transport

By using baled biomass for bio plants, you achieve higher efficiency and:

·       High compression density, which also ensures optimum transport conditions.
·       Convenient- and efficient stacking
·       Higher density prevents/reduces water penetration
·       Automatic crane handling is possible
·       More smooth material preparation
·       Uniform size – no wrong turning as when unrolling round bales