© 2022 Staheli West
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Baling With Steam
Large Square Bales
Small Square Bales
Max Bale Temperature
135° F (57°C)
145° F (60°C)
Max Bale Stacking
Temperature
115° F (45°C)
115° F (45°C)
Max Moisture Increase
With Steam
4-5%
6-8%
Suggested Moisture
Range (Alfalfa)
12-14%
14-22%
Accumulators
Horizontal = OK
Horizontal = OK
Bale Band-it & Bale Baron
only if bales are ≤ 115° F
(45°C)
Suggested Moisture
Sensor
Gazeeka 870
Gazeeka 180s (Colt)
Contact Moisture Sensors
(Hand Probe, Star Wheel
+ Other baler mounted
sensors)
Contact moisture sensors read 3-5% high when
testing recently steamed bales. Wait 24 hours for
the steam to dissipate and then the hand probe
moisture sensor will read accurately.
Condition of Alfalfa
Before Steaming
Fully Cured (6-10%)
Condition of Cereal Grain
Before Steaming
Fully Cured (6-10%)
Don’t be tricked by green nodes on plants that
appear dry
Condition of Mixed
Grass/Alfalfa Before
Steaming
Fully Cured (6-10%)
