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USE OF PRESERVATIVES
Hay preservative or stabilizers may also have an affect on meter readings. Normally
a bale of hay treated with preservative will read higher than a bale of the same hay
that had not been treated. The readings typically increase by 2-4% points, and 24-
48 hours after treatment, the readings between the bales tends to equalize.
Occasional higher readings may occur if, in addition to the effect of the increased
conductivity due to the stabilizer, the bales tested also show an increase in
temperature and “sweating.” As the stabilizer becomes more thoroughly absorbed
and the sweating subsides, the meter readings recede to the initial level and will
continue to decrease, assuming that the bale becomes progressively dryer.
SAMPLE SIZE
When testing baled hay, it is essential to take readings at several different points in
the bale. Hay moisture may vary a great deal in the same bale. For example, at one
point bale moisture may be 20% and at another over 35%.
More tests must be made whenever the variations among readings are greater. If
there is a possibility of high moisture areas, samples from these locations should be
taken. Areas of high moisture content will spoil, resulting in loss.
It is extremely important to note the high readings and the frequency at which they
occur.
Testing Hops – set meter to scale no 2
The F-2000 enables you to easily check moisture levels in baled hops to assure
quality and safe storage.
When measuring moisture content, keep in mind the average moisture content is not
necessarily a true indication of the safety for storage, as a few wet spots in the hops
can cause considerable damage.
The meter indicates the moisture level in the hops that is in contact with the
uninsulated tip of the prod. Therefore, it is very important to make a number of tests
in all parts of a bale for proper testing. Since moisture distribution usually varies in
baled hops, an average of several tests will give greater validity to the data collected.
Also, temperature of hops affects the reading of the moisture meter. As the
temperature of the hops increases, the moisture meter reading will also increase. If
possible, test bales with a temperature as close to a nominal 80°F as possible.
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