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First
Time Users Guide As a team, we pride ourselves in providing accurate and repeatable results using the latest technology at the highest quality standards available to the wool industry. We aim to deliver our personalised service at a competitive price, within the shortest time frame possible without compromising quality at any stage. Which of RWT's testing options suits you? The following steps will assist clients when sending samples into the laboratory. For further information please contact our office or check out our website. www.wooltesters.com.au Step 1: Tagging Your Sheep RWT can supply eartags from leading manufacturers at a competitive price. Eartags are available at 10 % discount off the recommended retail price. We also stock a range of stamped eartags, so if you need tags urgently please phone Kym for details. Step 2: Taking Samples Sample bags and bar-coded stickers are available upon request free of
charge from RWT. Barcode stickers are only suitable for approximately
100 or more samples and using consecutive numbers. Hire equipment such
as electric or battery-operated handpieces are now being hired out to
RWT clients. We can also put you in contact with sampling contractors
if needed. Please remember that our sample size requirement is 15 grams
(approximately what you can squeeze into a coffee cup). There is no doubt
size is important when it comes to wool testing. When using smaller sized
samples (i.e. the width of a broom handle) you may run the risk of having
a larger percentage of stronger fibres, which may bias your results. This
may also occur if the sample is taken on a wrinkle. By testing a larger
size sample the stronger fibres are averaged throughout the sample. The
result is therefore a better indication of the true micron of that animal.
The information on sample bags needs to be written clearly and preferably
using texture. It is very important when taking samples that the sample
site is consistent over the mob. When samples are ready for delivery, they can be delivered to a RWT depot, Australia Post or by your preferred freight company. We find samples tightly packed into a super bag, woolpack or equilivent do not need staples, sticky tape or ties to keep the samples from falling out of their individual bags. We have found that just a simple fold or scrunch is all that is required, this also assists RWT staff when testing. Please fill out a Test Request Form and leave with your samples explaining your testing requirements along with your deadline date to assist laboratory staff. Step 4: Receiving Results After RWT has processed your wool tests, your data will be sent to you in a numerically bound report, which includes a break up and graph of each mob. Micron order can also be obtained by marking your test request form accordingly. Results can be e-mailed and/or supplied on disk in excel, csv, topstud, woolpak or farmgrid format. Greasy fleece weights and body weights can also be entered into your report at a later date if required. Just send your weights into office staff, including the job number and description, to be entered into. RWT can also assist clients with indexes. Step 5: Recalling Results Results can be accessed using your RWT report or file. FarmGrid is a new program that RWT has developed based on feedback from RWT clients. It has been developed to improve data recall in the shearing shed or sheep yard environment. FarmGrid allows RWT clients to import their results into the program and recall the testing information out in the field. Greasy fleece weights, body weights, sire and comments can also be manipulated. Please note that RWT results such as micron can not be altered to protect both RWT and woolgrowers. Little or no computer experience is required for this program. Step 6: Indexes Indexes can be supplied by RWT and are reports that combine into one number, the performance of that animal for two or more traits. The type of index used is based on the relative emphasis a client may wish to apply to fleece weight and fibre diameter within their flock. Step 7: Virtual Classer - Making Money From Bale Lines This software allows the user to determine cut-off limits between bale lines, using measured fibre diameters for individual animals within a flock. The software uses a cycical routine that allocates fleeces to bin lines, based on their fibre diameter, while allowing potential prices for bale lines to be optimised. A number of inputs regarding flock numbers and production details ( GFW, FD, Yield & Skirting Ratio ) are used to predict the total potential wool production of the flock. Individual fleeces are then allocated into bin lines, using the wool market price information. Many clients have the potential to gain $3 to $5 extra per animal. |
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