E-Bale
AWEX e-Bale Project
In 2013, AWEX re-commenced its investigations into the potential application of Radio Frequency identification (RFID) technology to wool bales.
(a) Potential Industry Benefits
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Improved bale traceability and quality control allowing traceback
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Improved information flow from farm to processor (accurate identification, location and streamlining the delivery of bales)
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Enhanced performance of electronic Woolclasser’s Specification
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Rapid identification of wool bales if Exotic Animal Disease outbreak
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Improved downstream efficiency and quality management (maintain the position of wool in a competitive textile market)
(b) Implications for the Woolgrower
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“Industry good” projects require wool grower support, who bear some or all of the cost:
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Most benefits accrue post the farm gate
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Growers already paying for inefficiencies in the wool pipeline
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Improvements in handling and distribution would be of indirect benefit and may lead to cost saving incentives
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Actual benefits may be achieved through the linkage between electronic Classer’s Specifications and RFID tagged bales:
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Ensure that all bales are identified and described correctly
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Wool clip data could arrive before delivery of bales
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Download a copy of the paper e-Bale: The Potential Radio Frequency Identification of Wool Bales presented to the International Wool Textile Organisation in April 2016.
For further information contact:
Mark Grave, AWEX CEO, ph. 02 9428 6100 or e. mgrave@awex.com.au
Kerry Hansford, AWEX Quality & Technical Manager, ph. 03 9318 0277 or e. khansford@awex.com.au