![]() ![]() How Does Grain Monitoring for Silos Work? Silo temperature monitoring in conjunction with aeration prevents spoilage by ensuring the grain storage environment remains optimal. The use of grain monitoring cables have shown even better success rates for repurposing silos for dry grain storage. When looking to convert an old silo, operators should consider investing in temperature grain monitoring systems for silos to prevent convection and grain spoilage. Using Temperature Monitoring Cables Makes Repurposing Possible These “hot spots” caused by grain respiration lead to excess moisture, insect infestation, and potential grain spoilage. This convection of air circulation creates moisture as the air warms and rises before cooling at the top. Cold air along the outer area sinks as warm air in the center rises toward the top of the silo. The range of temperatures between the inner area of storage and outer grain creates convection air circulation within the grain mass. Outer grain could experience temperatures as low as 10° to 40° F. However, colder winter weather will change the the grain located closer to the silo’s outside wall much more rapidly. ![]() Because grain is a good insulator, the storage center probably won’t change by more than one degree per month. Let’s say a farmer stores grain in early October, when grain temperatures can easily reach between 70-90☏ or higher. An aeration system will prevent moisture migration while also reducing mold and insect activity. This is important even if grain is dry when moved into the silo. You have to be able to respond to hot spots with aeration to control temperature and keep grain dry. When storing 2,000 to 3,000 bushels or more of grain, silos must have adequate aeration systems. Many factors play a role in successful silage conversion. Finally, the silo needs to be in a location that allows for long term grain storage.Īeration Systems and Temperature Monitoring It must also have an unload system to withdraw grain from the bottom center. Plus, the silo must have a fill system that minimizes grain damage. Walls must allow for moisture and air tight storage. Ideally, the concrete floor should reach the height above the surrounding soil grade around the silo. In addition, the silo requires a roof as well as a concrete floor. The silo should be either hooped or reinforced to properly store dry shelled grain. Some other structural conditions should be considered. ![]() You have to make sure that silo walls and reinforcing rods can sustain pressure of dry grain storage. That means you should carefully examine the conditions of an old silo. Many older grain silos are not designed to handle the pressure. Dry grain exerts more pressure on walls than corn silage. ![]() You must consider a handful of factors before adapting old silage silos for dry grain storage.įactors to Consider When Converting to Dry Grain StorageĪ few factors stand out indicating whether or not an existing silo can be updated for dry grain storage. However, making the conversion presents some challenges. The answer is yes, and many farmers have successfully adapted old tower silos for dry grain storage. Can these tower silos, once used for haylage, silage, or high moisture grain, be converted for dry grain storage? Farmers are eyeing old silage silos now, wondering whether they can be used for grain storage, or not. This has left many unused tower silos on farms across the Midwest. Still over time, farm operations improve, introducing new and improved methods of grain storage. Silo temperature monitoring and grain aeration put old silo structures back in the mix for increasing on-farm grain storage.įor years, farmers have utilized silo structures for silage to store grain, both wet and dry. If all goes as planned, this year will bring another record harvest. ![]()
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