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Torsion Bar Tensioning System
The torsion bar tensioning system maintains uniform
pressure throughout the range of roll movement as
the crop mat passes through, providing better control
and reducing potential crop plugging. In most
conditions, a good starting point for tension on
intermeshing rolls is to increase the roll tension by
turning the adjusting crank 8 full turns after you start
to feel resistance on the crank handle.
Too large a roll gap or too little roll tension
under-conditions the crop, resulting in extended dry
down times and increased potential for weather-re-
lated damage. Too close a roll gap or too much roll
tension can severely over-condition the crop,
breaking the tops away from the plants and causing
excessive leaf loss. It can also cause excessive wear
of the conditioning rolls if they touch while turning.
Properly Conditioned Crop
Properly conditioned crops will show a pattern of
cracks at regular intervals along the plant stem. Each
SECTION 2 - OPERATION
crack will be about 25--50 mm (1--2 in.) in length. The
stem should look flat in these cracked areas.
Depending on crop height when cut, there will be at
least two or three cracks along the plant length. The
plant leaves should show only minimal bruising. Leaf
bruising is characterized by dark green streaks or
marks across the leaf surface. While some leaf
bruising can't be avoided, too much bruising is not
good because the bruises allow moisture to escape
the leaf. When this occurs, the leaf dries too quickly,
resulting in loss of the plant leaf before or during
packaging. This in turn reduces the overall feed
value of the crop.
Checking Crop
As a general check, grab a handful of crop directly
behind the machine after it has been processed and
hold it in one hand. The plant stems should be fairly
limp and just fold over your hand. Nine out of 10
stems in a random sample should show stem cracks.
Inspect the leaves in the same random sample, and
no more than 5% of the leaves should have bruising.
2-16
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