Grain storage losses happen when grain is lost, damaged, or reduced in value after harvest and during storage. These losses can affect the amount of grain available for sale as well as its quality. Moisture changes, pests, handling damage, spillage, and poor storage conditions can all contribute to grain storage […]
Grain spoilage happens when stored grain conditions allow moisture, heat, mold, insects, or other factors to reduce grain quality. Excess moisture and high grain temperature can create conditions that support mold growth, insect activity, and further grain deterioration. Poor airflow can also make it harder to keep temperature and moisture […]
Grain bin condensation occurs when moisture in the air inside a grain bin meets a cooler surface, such as the bin roof, walls, or stored grain. Temperature differences can cause warm, moisture-filled air to move through the bin and release moisture when it reaches a colder area. This can happen […]
Stored grain insect problems can be reduced by starting with a clean storage bin, storing clean and properly conditioned grain, keeping grain cool with proper aeration, sealing the bin to keep pests out, and checking stored grain regularly. Cleaning grain-handling equipment and removing old grain and debris around the bin […]
Grain dockage is the percentage of removable material separated from a grain sample during grading or cleaning. It can include weed seeds, chaff, stems, dirt, and other material that can be removed using the applicable cleaning or testing method. For Agri-Systems customers, understanding dockage can help explain why grain deliveries […]
Grain bin monitoring systems use sensors and monitoring technology to track conditions such as grain temperature, moisture, inventory levels, and other storage conditions. The system collects this information and makes it available through monitoring software, helping operators identify changes that may require attention. Modern grain monitoring can provide continuous visibility […]
Choosing the right grain conveyor belt starts with matching the belt to the grain, required capacity, conveyor size, incline, and operating conditions. Belt width, speed, material, strength, and surface design all affect how efficiently and safely grain moves through the system. Start by determining the type and amount of grain […]
Grain shrinkage is the reduction in grain weight that occurs when moisture is removed during drying. The amount of shrink depends on the grain’s starting moisture, target moisture, and any additional losses that occur during handling. Water loss is usually the main source of shrink, but fines, broken kernels, and […]
A grain bin roof that has bubbled or mushroomed upward is usually a sign of excess pressure inside the bin. Blocked or frozen roof vents, insufficient ventilation, or airflow that cannot escape properly can cause pressure to build up and push roof panels upward. The damage should not be ignored […]
Hot spots in stored grain are usually caused by excess moisture, moisture migration, poor airflow, mold or fungal growth, insects, and concentrated fines or broken kernels. These conditions can create localized areas where grain heats up faster than the surrounding grain, which can lead to spoilage if the problem is […]
