Evaluation of Friction Seals for Cotton Bale Strapping

W.S. Anthony


 
ABSTRACT

The forces exerted against the strapping that restrains cotton bales are primarily a function of compression density, restraint density, fiber distribution, fiber moisture content and storage time. The tie forces can exceed the break strength of the seal-strap connection in some cases. Friction seals were developed by Signode Corporation(1) to allow slight controlled slippage at the seal to lengthen the tie, reduce the force load and prevent breakage. This study evaluated the performance of the friction seals and compared the moisture transfer properties of extrusion-coated and uncoated woven polypropylene bagging on four universal density bales of cotton during 69 days of storage under high humidity conditions. One of the bales was also dropped from a height of 12 feet to apply additional force to the bale straps. The seals allowed the straps to slip as much as 1-3/4 inches without breakage. The seals performed well and should aid in the reduction of bale strap failures. No differences were observed in moisture transfer between the two types of bagging.



Reprinted from 1986 Proceedings: Beltwide Cotton Production Research Conferences pp. 445 - 448
©National Cotton Council, Memphis TN

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Document last modified Sunday, Dec 6 1998