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 […]
Blog
Grain Bin Monitoring Systems: How They Work and What They Monitor
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 […]
How to Select the Right Grain Conveyor Belt
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 […]
What Is Grain Shrinkage? Causes and How to Calculate It
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 […]
My Grain Bin Roof Bubbled or Mushroomed Up – What Would Cause That?
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 […]
What Causes Hot Spots in Stored Grain? Warning Signs and Prevention
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 […]
How to Safely Unload a Grain Bin: Steps, Sump Operation, and Common Mistakes
Agri-Systems recommends starting grain bin unloading with the center sump and allowing the grain cone to reach the floor before opening intermediate sumps from the inside out. Following the recommended unloading sequence helps reduce uneven grain removal and the structural stress that can result from off-center unloading. Safe grain bin […]
Grain Receiving Systems: Dump Pit vs. High-Speed Drag Conveyor
Agri-Systems designs grain receiving systems around the needs of each operation. The right system depends on factors such as grain throughput, truck unloading speed, site conditions, available space, maintenance requirements, and the size and type of your facility. A dump pit provides fast unloading with holding capacity, while a high-speed […]
What Is Grain Cleaning? Methods, Equipment, and Benefits
Grain cleaning is the process of removing unwanted material such as dust, chaff, straw, weed seeds, broken kernels, and other foreign matter from harvested grain. Agri-Systems helps farmers and grain handling operations integrate the right grain cleaning equipment into their systems, using methods such as screening, sieving, aspiration, and other […]
On-Farm Grain Storage: How to Maintain Grain Quality and Control Costs
Today we are cross posting a very helpful blog from Brock Grain on the importance of protecting your grain. When it comes to safeguarding your grain, there’s nothing wrong with being a control freak. An on-farm grain storage system can put you in the driver’s seat when it comes to […]