DewPoint 6210 FAQs
In terms of quality, how does steam compare to natural dew?
University studies have shown that using steam to bale hay reduces leaf loss by 58% compared to natural dew. However, one of the main differences is that you can produce high-quality hay in dry and even windy conditions both day and night. Won’t I lose a lot of leaves at the pickup? No. Steam is injected and absorbed into the hay before and during the baling process. Because steam reacts to the hay so quickly, we have to apply the steam right at the pickup, which is proven to increase leaf retention. What are the operating costs of running the DewPoint 6210? You will consume approximately 1/2 gallon of diesel fuel per ton of hay on average to produce steam. So, the cost of fuel will drive the cost of operation. You will also spend about 15-20¢/ton for water conditioning. Currently (August 2018), the total cost of operation is less than $2/ton. The operating costs are more than offset by improved leaf retention. How often do I have to refuel and refill the water tanks? The 1,000 gallons of on-board supply water will last 3-6 hours, depending on the steam injection rate. The 300 gallons of on-board fuel will last for 3 loads of supply water (9-18 hours). How is maneuverability? I don’t know how to drive a train. Thanks to the geometric design of the DewPoint 6210 you will have at least the same maneuverability as a tractor with only a baler attached. Some owners have said it actually decreases their turning radius. How difficult is it to operate the DewPoint 6210? Easy! If you already know how to operate a large square baler you are 80% of the way there. The touch screen operating system is very intuitive and easy to learn. How much moisture will I be adding? You are in total control of the amount of steam injected into your hay. When your hay is completely cured and you’re working in dry conditions, you will likely add around 2-3% moisture, which equates to around 5-7 gallons of water per ton of hay. I don’t need to add moisture. I already have too much. When the dew burns off, go bale hay. Situations that would normally create dry, shattery hay, are perfect times to start up your DewPoint machine. This might mean baling in the middle of the day, but why not? Any time your hay is dry, the DewPoint machine shines. Some customers have even paired the DewPoint machine with hay preservative systems and significantly expanded their baling window, especially during monsoon weather and in higher humidity areas. Not only will you make great hay, but you will also lose less leaf than you would with a perfect natural dew. |
Simon Meagher
(03) 5335 8609 simon@westag.com.au |