ARS | Publication request: Spontaneous heating

Submitted to: Symposium Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: February 25, 2013
Publication Date: March 1, 2013
Citation: Coblentz, W.K. 2013. Spontaneous heating. Symposium Proceedings. February 28 - March 1, 2013. Burley, ID.

Technical Abstract: Increased use of large-rectangular or large-round balers has been observed throughout the US. In part, this move away from small (100-lb) rectangular hay bales has occurred because of the high cost and limited availability of labor required to handle these bales. Although the efficiency of harvest is improved with large hay packages, there also is greater susceptibility within these large bales for spontaneous heating, and in extreme cases, spontaneous combustion. Furthermore, heating is directly associated with losses of DM and undesirable changes in forage nutritive value. Therefore, producer diligence and proactive action may be required to limit or prevent this undesirable phenomenon.