Baling wire is an essential product for a variety of industries. The material can be produced in different gauges with varying properties, making it useful for many purposes. While it may seem like baling wire is an innovative product thanks to its versatility, it’s been in use for hundreds of years. Read on to learn more about the history of baling wire.
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The Early History of Baling Wire
In the 1800s, the agricultural industry saw the birth of baling wire. However, it wasn’t until the end of the century that it was put to widespread use. This came as a result of Charles Withington’s newly invented baling press. This machine is quite unlike anything you’d find today, as it was powered by the brute strength of horses.
As baling wire came about in a predominantly agricultural period, the main use of the wire was to bale hay. Men would manually load hay into the press where it would be heavily compressed by the force of the horses. From there, men had to manually tie the hay bales with baling wire.
To those in current society, there are obvious flaws in this system. Manpower cannot be relied upon to securely fasten these bales. On top of the lack of consistency, the quality of the baling wire was not as high as it is now. Thus, there were risks involved in the process.
The Emergence of Modern Baling Wire
During the 20th century, people learned how to produce baling wire more effectively and consistently. Additionally, the process of baling became easier with the introduction of tractors and more advanced machinery.
Eventually, baling wire fell out of fashion in the agricultural industry and was replaced with twine. However, that was not the end of baling wire! Instead, more industrial businesses saw a need for a material like baling wire—something strong, flexible, durable, and cost-effective.
From the mid to late 1900s, baling wire began to see widespread use in the packaging, waste, and recycling industries. Just as before, baling wire was used to hold material together. This time, instead of hay, baling wire was being used to hold paper, cardboard, metals, and other recyclable goods.
Today’s Baling Wire
With more advanced means of producing wire products, baling wire saw growth in use. Through galvanization, baling wire can be produced with incredible properties. The zinc-dipped metal wire has corrosive-resistant properties, strength, durability, and malleability.
Now, several industries benefit from the all-purpose baling wire. There is great importance and respect placed on baling wire due to its history, versatility, and overall quality.
Purchase High-Quality Baling Wire from Vulcan Wire!
We hope you enjoyed learning about the history of baling wire. If you’re a business owner looking for baling wire, Vulcan Wire can assist you. We stock a variety of high-quality baling wire to suit your business’s needs. Contact us today to learn more about our products, or begin shopping now!
