The TEAM-3 formula for the prediction of Hauteur is as follows:

Hauteur = 0.43L + 0.35S + 1.38D – 0.15M – 0.45V – 0.59CVD – 0.32CVL + 21.8

From this formula it is clear the importance of Length & Strength measurement for mills to be able to confidently predict the processing performance of consignments. The measurement of average Staple Length (L), average Staple Strength (S), the proportion of Mid Breaks (M) and the Coefficient of Variation of Length (CVL) are all an integral part of the TEAM-3 prediction of Hauteur. These factors are also included in the TEAM-3 prediction of CVH, whilst the prediction of Romaine relies heavily on the average Staple Length and the average Staple Strength.

The provision of Staple Length & Strength information on individual sale lots is therefore very important objective information that allows mills and topmakers to predict processing performance. There is no surprise then to see that additionally measured fleece and skirting lots attract significant premiums at auction compared to lots that are sold without this objective information.

The Woolmark Company have completed an analysis for AWTA Ltd on the influence of staple measurement on auction price in the 2004/05 season. The report shows that staple measurement premiums averaged 66 c/kg clean nationally for fleece wool and 39 c/kg clean nationally for pieces. Premiums were present across all micron ranges, all staple strength ranges, all staple length ranges, and all lot size ranges. Of significant interest is the fact that for fleece wool testing less than 25 N/Ktex, an average premium of 42 c/kg clean was paid compared to similar lots that were not tested for Length & Strength.

These premiums should be considered in relation to the average cost of the Length & Strength testing service which is approximately 3 to 4 c/kg greasy for a 4 to 5 bale lot. Despite the reluctance of some clients to additionally measure broader micron lots, premiums of approximately 45 c/kg are evident for Merino wools between 21.1 and 24.0 microns. Premiums of approximately 15-20 c/kg clean also exist for crossbred fleece wool up to 26.0 microns.

A copy of this report is available from AWTA Ltd’s website: www.awta.com.au