What is the shelf life of baling wire?

Baling wire has an excellent shelf life. If protected from moisture, fluctuating temperatures, caustic substances, or other corrosive conditions, baling wire can last indefinitely.

In average conditions, baling wire has a shelf life of 5–50+ years, depending on the type of wire. Galvanized wire boasts the longest shelf life, followed by black annealed wire.

All types of baling wire eventually rust when exposed to the elements, and you should carefully inspect wire before use. To maximize your baling wire’s lifespan, implement proactive storage practices and choose wire that can handle your storage environment.

Galvanized wire and shelf life

Galvanized wire has the longest shelf life. In the field, galvanized wire has been known to last for more than 100 years, meaning that its shelf life is even longer if stored properly.

During galvanization, a layer of molten zinc coats the wire. Zinc acts as a sacrificial anode, which protects the underlying steel. The zinc coat must completely corrode before the galvanized wire begins to rust.

Galvanization class identifies the thickness of a wire’s zinc coat. While Class 1 galvanized wire offers basic protection, Class 3 galvanization provides a zinc coat that is three times as thick. We offer both Class 1 and Class 3 galvanization on all galvanized products.

Black annealed wire and shelf life

Black annealed wire offers a middle ground between uncoated wire and galvanized wire. Annealed wire corrodes quicker than galvanized wire but is more protected than uncoated wire.

The annealing process improves the wire’s ductility and elongation, and it is usually finished by applying an oil or wax coat. This coat protects the wire from corrosion and improves its shelf life.

Regular baling wire and shelf life

Uncoated baling wire is the least resilient. It has a lifespan of 1–5 years depending on environmental conditions. Like other types of wire, its shelf life can be quite long if stored in optimal conditions, but it has no protection against corrosion.

Regular baling wire, such as our bright double loop bale ties, is cost-effective and safe to use for baling materials that require short-term storage (paper, cardboard, tissue, etc.).

Baling wire storage tips

Storage conditions determine shelf life. Here are some tips on how to maximize baling wire shelf life through proper storage:

• Keep in a dry, cool storage area: Moisture and humidity cause rust and corrosion. A temperature-controlled storage space with proper ventilation can keep your wire dry.
• Keep wire away from direct sunlight: Constant temperature fluctuations cause the wire to slightly expand and contract, which can eventually affect the wire’s tensile strength. Temperature changes also cause condensation and rust. Store in a windowless supply closet if possible.
• Keep wire off of the ground: Ground contact exposes wire to dirt, insects, and rodents, which can cause abrasion and corrosion. Store wire on racks or shelves.
• Maintain a clean environment: Avoid insects, rodents, and a dirty storage environment by cleaning your storage area frequently. A cleaner storage environment will increase the shelf life of your baling wire.
• Purchase high-quality wire: Baling wire made from low-quality steel degrades quickly. Choose baling wire made from quality steel. Use suppliers that keep metallurgical traceability documents to confirm you’re purchasing wire that will last.

What makes wire corrode?

Wire corrosion, also known as electrochemical corrosion, is the primary factor that reduces baling wire shelf life. It occurs via any of the following dynamics:

• Oxidation: Metals corrode when they chemically react with oxygen, losing electrons and forming oxides such as rust.
• Environment: Temperature, stress, humidity, and chemical exposures affect corrosion rates. Industrial chemicals can react with and break down wire coverings.
• Electrolytes: Corrosive electrolytes, such as water or salt solutions, transport ions that accelerate rust and corrosion. Saltwater is especially problematic.

Our high-quality baling wire

Our high-quality baling wire has an excellent shelf life. It is manufactured from high-quality steel, drawn and treated by experienced technicians, and subjected to rigorous quality controls to guarantee longevity.

The resulting wire has exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to wire breakage so your operation keeps running smoothly.Baling Wire Direct is a trusted supplier of high-quality baling wireto the recycling industry and beyond.