Tama Assist Round Bale Wrapping: Exploring the Best Options for Modern Farming
Netwrap has been the go to solution for round baling for decades, and for good reason. It’s quick to apply, holds bale shape effectively, and has a wide range of machine compatibility. Over the years, Netwrap technology has advanced significantly, with manufacturers like Tama bringing stronger, longer, and more consistent products to market.
Key Advantages:
- Widely compatible with all round balers
- Fast application and efficient wrap cycles
- Good weather protection and shape retention
New developments are also reducing environmental impact. For example, lightweight netwraps that maintain strength and incorporate recycled plastic are now available, such as TamaCycle. Developments beyond a simple net, also include our upcoming EZ Web, which offers a new approach to round bale wrapping (more details below).
Net Replacement Film is gaining visibility as an alternative, offering a one material wrap solution (using only film). This approach allows bales to be wrapped entirely in stretch film, theoretically simplifying recycling and reducing the need for net separation during feed out.
However, this system isn’t without challenges:
Things to Consider:
- Specialist equipment required: not all balers are compatible without modification or upgrades
- Higher plastic use: NRF requires more layers of film, increasing overall plastic per bale
- Cost per bale: when factoring in the film volume and machine requirements, NRF can result in a higher cost per bale
- Silage quality: independent testing has shown no clear advantage in forage quality between NRF and Netwrap + film combinations
NRF may suit some systems well, especially if you have already paid out for the costly baler enhancements. Additionally, you may find a benefit in closed loop operations or where specific recycling schemes are in place, to manage the increase in agri-plastic waste.
One of the most exciting developments in this space is EZ Web, a hybrid web solution designed to combine the efficiency and ease of use of Netwrap with improved recyclability.
Unlike traditional Netwrap, EZ Web does not need to be separated from stretch film at feed out, as the two materials can be recycled together within the same stream. And as you would expect from any Tama product, it also offers the same number of wraps per bale as netwrap (so no increase in wrapping cycle time), consistent results and supports more sustainable bale wrapping practices on farm.
Why EZ Web Stands Out:
- Recyclable alongside stretch film
- No need to separate wrap and film at unwrapping
- Compatible with conventional balers
- Lower total plastic use than NRF
- Faster wrapping time than NRF due to less wraps required on the bale
EZ Web is a great choice for professional round balers looking for a practical, farm friendly balance between performance, cost, and sustainability.
Sisal and Recycled Twine
While sisal twine remains a biodegradable option for certain applications, it’s less common today due to limitations in strength and durability for high output baling. However, recycled twine is advancing rapidly, particularly with products like TamaCycle Twine, which is made from recovered agricultural twine and offers the same performance and strength as standard high density twines. This makes it a genuine, sustainable alternative for modern, high volume baling operations, combining environmental responsibility with commercial practicality.
Edible Netwrap
Another innovative option gaining attention is edible netwrap, a biodegradable wrap designed to be safely consumed by livestock. Made from natural, digestible materials, it eliminates the need for removal and disposal altogether. While this technology is still in its early stages and not yet widely available, it presents an interesting future solution, especially for operations looking to reduce labour and minimise environmental impact.
However, considerations around cost, strength, and bale protection still need to be fully addressed before it becomes a mainstream alternative.
At the end of the day, the best choice for your farm depends on a few key factors:
- Machine compatibility: What is your current kit designed to handle?
- Cost per bale: Not just product price, but the total cost across wrapping, feed out, and waste handling.
- Labour and workflow: Which option minimises your personnel, machine and product downtime?
- Sustainability goals: Are you focused on reducing plastic use, improving recyclability, or both?
By looking at all the facts, farmers and contractors can make informed decisions based on their unique needs, not just unsubstantiated claims from manufacturers.
The good news is that there are more options than ever for round bale wrapping, each with its own strengths. Whether you choose traditional Netwrap, explore Net Replacement Film, or adopt next generation solutions like EZ Web, what matters most is finding the solution that delivers performance, value, and long term practicality for your business and round baling challenges.
As the industry continues to innovate, it’s vital to stay informed and make sure any change is a step forward, helping to properly future proof your business and is not just a change for change’s sake.
