The latest round balers from Deutz-Fahr, Fendt, John Deere, Krone, Kuhn and Pöttinger were used for the second cut on a mixed meadow and for the third cut on field fodder to press wilted silage and to press barley straw on an innovative practical farm in Ennstal, Styria. Before the test use, the plant populations in the test areas were assessed, yields were determined, feed samples were taken and the swath weights were ultimately recorded. The adjustment of the round balers was carried out by a company employee and the test driver. The aim was to find the right setting between the required power requirement on the PTO and an optimal, not necessarily maximum, baling density. The required PTO power was measured during the pressing process. The driving speed and engine speed were kept as constant and comparable as possible. After pressing and wrapping the round bales, they were measured (diameter and width) and weighed, and feed samples were taken. After wrapping, the round bales were marked accordingly for the final feed quality assessment. The feed samples were taken after 10 weeks of storage. Samples were also taken to determine the cutting length profiles.

Initial results reveal interesting differences at the different assessment levels. In terms of bale density, obvious differences could already be seen during round bale manipulation. Individual brands also had to recognize their application limits when pressing barley straw and others had to recognize their operational limits during practical use for the fourth and final cut of the year. In any case, interesting findings can be expected from the comparison test not only for practice, but also for the manufacturers themselves.