Abstract: A method of and apparatus (10) for compacting harvested crop or fiber (30) such as wool or hay; the method comprising applying a mechanical compacting force to the crop or fiber at the same time as or immediately after subjecting the crop or fiber to an elevated temperature above a base reference temperature and/or an elevated moisture content condition above a base reference moisture content condition whereby the crop or fiber (30) is compressed to a compressed state of predetermined density using less compacting force than would otherwise be the case. The method and apparatus can also be applied to control moisture content and certain other storage characteristics through utilization of compaction apparatus (10) on its own or in conjunction with a pre-processor (35) or post-processor (36) or both.

Abstract: A crop conditioner having treatment chamber with front and rear ends adapted to enclose a longitudinal portion of a windrow laying on the ground over which the crop conditioner travels. A plurality of steam outlet nozzles within the chamber near the front end thereof directs steam to the crop.

Abstract: A crop conditioner having treatment chamber with front and rear ends adapted to enclose a longitudinal portion of a windrow laying on the ground over which the crop conditioner travels. A plurality of steam outlet nozzles within the chamber near the front end thereof directs steam to the crop.