BALE ACCUMULATORS AND HAY RAKES | Product Spotlight
• AE18 Bale Accumulator
The AE18 accumulator system from Norden Manufacturing is the largest and most efficient model in its lineup, designed to streamline small square bale handling. It arranges 18 bales on edge— 6 wide by 3 long— creating tightly packed groups ideal for efficient loading and transport.
Compatible with bales ranging from 32- to 40-inches in length, the AE18 forms bale groups 90-inches wide and up to 120-inches long. This high-capacity system delivers a 44 %-time savings over other 10-bale accumulators, reducing the number of grabs and packs required by nearly half. Each collection from the paired AE18 grab includes 80 % more bales, making it ideal for operations needing speed and volume. Its layout is perfect for rear-loading van trailers and allows a 9-foot-by-24-foot wagon to be fully packed, maximizing space and minimizing labor.
The AE18 is a smart solution for high-output hay producers looking to improve efficiency and reduce handling time.
Norden Manufacturing | www. nordenmfg. com
• 5250T Bale Baron
The 5250T Bale Baron from Marcrest, equipped with a powered trail chute, is built to match the output of the high-capacity 210 Marcrest baler. The 5250T is designed for producers who need speed, efficiency and reliability during peak harvest.
Part of the 5250 series, this model collects and bundles small square bales quickly and consistently, reducing labor and handling time in the field. Its trail-behind design allows seamless integration with existing baling operations, making it ideal for high-volume hay producers. The powered chute ensures smooth delivery of bales into the bundling chamber, keeping pace with today’ s fastest balers.
Designed for durability and performance, the 5250T helps streamline bale collection, packaging 21-bale bundles that are easy to stack, transport and store. The result is a more efficient workflow, fewer trips through the field and better productivity for commercial hay operations.
Marcrest Manufacturing | www. marcrestmfg. com
• The Silencer
The Silencer from Hygrade Engineering is a one-piece plastic band designed to improve wheel rake performance by slipping over the rake teeth. It prevents tooth damage, reduces skipped-over forage and enhances overall raking efficiency. By requiring less down pressure during operation, The Silencer helps minimize the amount of dirt collected in the windrow— contributing to cleaner hay.
A major benefit is noise reduction: rake wheels operate silently, eliminating the rattling typically caused by metal teeth contact. This not only reduces operator fatigue but also extends the lifespan of rake components. The Silencer installs quickly and easily without the need for tools or modifications, making it a convenient upgrade for most wheel rake models.
Designed with simplicity and durability in mind, this solution helps producers maintain forage quality while protecting equipment.
Hygrade Engineering | www. hygradeengineering. com
• The 10-Bale Hay Accumulator
The 10-bale hay accumulator is engineered for efficient bale handling and stable transport. Its unique cross-stacked configuration turns two bales sideways within each group, allowing for easier stacking and improved load stability during transport. This design eliminates the need to rehandle or reposition bales before loading, reducing labor and saving time in the field.
Sized to fit standard 8-foot trailers, the accumulator streamlines loading for quick hauls to and from the barn. With dimensions of 208.5 inches long, 100.75 inches wide and 29.5 inches high, it offers practical capacity without excessive bulk. Weighing 1,000 pounds, it’ s durable yet manageable, ideal for operations seeking to improve hay handling efficiency.
By simplifying the bale collection process, the 10-bale hay accumulator helps reduce labor costs and speeds up workflow, making it a valuable tool for small- to mid-sized hay producers looking to maximize productivity during harvest.
Parrish Agriturf | https:// parrishagriturf. com /
June 2025 | www. FarmersHotLine. com | 19