How to Use Baling Wire on Industrial Recycling Balers
Instructions for Tying Bale Wire on Vertical Balers
Baling wire (also called bale ties) is used to secure compressed material from industrial recycling balers into tight, manageable bales for transport to recycling mills. Proper wire selection and tying technique ensures safe handling, structural integrity, and efficient shipment.
Recycling Equipment Corporation (REC) supplies a full range of baling wire products, including:
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Black Annealed Baling Wire
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Single Loop Baling Wire
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Double Loop Baling Wire
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Galvanized Baling Wire
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Painted Baling Wire
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High Tensile Baling Wire
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Square Lock Baling Wire
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Boxed Baling Wire
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Coiled / Spool Baling Wire
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Stem / Stump Baling Wire
Wire length and gauge (thickness) vary depending on baler size and material being baled. If you are unsure which wire is correct for your application, contact REC for expert selection assistance.
How to Tie a Bale on a Vertical Baler
(Using Single Loop Baling Wire)
Most standard vertical balers use single loop baling wire to secure completed paper, cardboard, plastic, or metal bales. The process is similar across most baler manufacturers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Safety First
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Always wear eye protection when handling baling wire.
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Only trained personnel should operate recycling equipment.
2. Feed the Wire
Insert one end of the baling wire through the slots located at the bottom of the platen (plunger). Either end may be inserted first.
3. Route Around the Bale
Move to the rear of the baler and guide the wire around the bale. Feed it through the corresponding Vertical floor slot so both ends are now positioned at the front of the baler.
4. Connect the Loop
Insert the free end of the wire through the pre-formed looped end. Pull out most of the slack. A small amount of slack is acceptable, as the bale will naturally expand and tighten the wire after ejection. Pro Tip: Fold excess wire in half and insert cut end back into loop about 1" deep. This will help keep the sharp end secure from poking or scratching and give you more material to twist in item 5. Optional : Use REC Wire Tie Tool
5. Secure the Tie
Bend the free end back against the loop and wrap it around itself 3–4 times to secure.
6. Repeat
Repeat steps 2–5 for each designated wire slot on the baler.
7. Prepare for Ejection
Ensure the main door is fully open. Attach ejector chains or cables (if applicable) to the platen. Some balers perform this automatically.
8. Position Support Equipment
Place a forklift, pallet, or pallet jack in front of the bale chamber to safely receive the bale.
9. Eject the Bale
Stand clear of the front of the baler. Press the “Up” or “Eject” button to raise the platen and push the bale out.
10. Clear the Chamber
Remove the bale and confirm all wire slots are clear.
11. Reset Equipment
Detach ejector chains or cables and ensure they are properly positioned in floor grooves.
12. Close Door & Resume Operation
Close the baler door and begin the next bale cycle.
Choosing the Right Baling Wire
Selecting the proper baling wire depends on:
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Baler type (vertical or horizontal)
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Bale size
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Material being baled (cardboard, plastic, metal, textiles)
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Required tensile strength
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Gauge and length specifications
Using the wrong wire can cause:
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Breakage during ejection
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Bale expansion
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Unsafe handling conditions
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Increased downtime
REC supplies mill-direct baling wire with nationwide shipping and expert application support.
Buy Baling Wire from REC
Recycling Equipment Corporation is a trusted supplier of industrial baling wire for vertical and horizontal balers. We offer competitive pricing, fast shipping, and application guidance.
📞 Call REC for pricing and recommendations
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