Whilst the main benefits of storing grain are evident in the risky business of farming – price fluctuations, overproduction and harvest loss are the main reasons why the majority of commercial farmers use an entire system of grain storage to maximise their crop value and minimise their crop loss. There are a number of dependable grain storage systems on the market, so let’s take a look at some of them, and their uses and benefits.
Grain storage comes into play for a number of reasons such as overproduction, grain transportation, and to minimise the risks associated with grain storage. The main grain storage system in place amongst large farms aims to keep the grain in dry conditions and minimise the risks associated with grain loss, such as to rot or fungal growth.
Temperature Control, Aeration and Storage
In these grain storage solutions, temperature control, ease of access and the ability to move large amounts of grain from the site to a storage unit and then on to transportation makes the difference. The majority of grain storage is done for a medium period of time, and therefore needs to be kept in a cool, and dry place to ensure the crop is not damaged.
Bulk grain storage silos exist to allow a huge quantity of grain to be stored in an easily accessible unit for future transportation. Maintaining the temperature of the grain storage in harsh weather is a challenge.
Modern Grain Storage Solutions
Grain storage such as Advantec’s “Grain Guardian” is a modern take on the old silo technique, with a few twists. It has a clever aeration system that allows for the movement of air over the top of the silo to take away heat build-up which can cause issues with crop degradation itself.
This innovative method is not where the grain guardian stops, as with rigid sides that include strengthened hoops surrounding the building, there is no internal structure so you can maximise the internal volume of grain stored within.
Temporary Measures
For crop overproduction, temporary measures are needed to store the excess and maintain its quality, in times where other grain storage devices are full or non-functional. In these instances, temporary hoop structures are used to store the grain at ground level, allowing for a temporary solution when awaiting transportation.
Many farms use temporary grain storage solutions to keep the grain on site and minimise on extra costs of transportation and storage at another site. These temporary measures ensure that the crop stays in optimal condition for a short period of time, allowing storage elsewhere on site at a later date.
Innovative New Designs
For more long term grain storage solutions, a larger grain storage device is needed. Advantec is now using some of the most innovative technology in the industry to create grain-air tubes that allow for the circulation of cool air from within a crop pile itself.
These inventive structures consist of a central pole that has holes punched in it that allow the air from the central pile of the crop to rise to the top of the grain storage silo and out into the air.
The build-up of heat from within the central column of the crop is what turns crop into rotting crop, and with a minimal risk of fungal growth due to the warm air being taken away, these longer term grain storage solutions are best for larger farms, or farms that keep grain for longer periods of time.
It’s important to take the time to select which grain storage solution fits your needs best so you get a high yield and loose as little product as possible. Advantec offers a range of quality options that can help you make the most of your crop and can also tailor a unique solution to perfectly meet your needs.
