43
As shown in
, grain moisture content for safe storage depends upon type of grain and length of time it is
to be stored. For best results when storing dried grain, an accurate moisture test is needed to determine whether
grain is dry. Also, aeration must be used to control temperature and prevent grain loss.
A bin’s drying fan can be used for cooling if grain is stored in bin in which it is dried. If grain is to be placed into a
different bin, it should be equipped with an aeration system to control grain temperature during storage. It is
imperative that grain be cooled during storage to control insects and reduce moisture migration.
If problems with bin and/or grain arise, refer to troubleshooting section on page 46 for recommended actions.
Each of these problems can be minimized with good grain management practices.
Short-Term Storage of Wet Grains
Sukup Manufacturing Co. defines wet corn as that with 16% or higher moisture content. Temperatures will not
remain constant because wet corn releases heat that increases its temperature, which can rapidly lead to hot
spots and grain deterioration. Aeration systems are crucial to prevent this temperature rise. Even with aeration,
however, allowable storage time for wet corn is limited, as shown in
Storage Preparation
Insects are either already in bins before filling takes place or they will enter later. Steps below will aid in
prevention of insect problems in grain. For more information on insect control, contact local extension office.
Clean bin thoroughly prior to filling.
Repair cracks and/or crevices where moisture and insects may enter.
Avoid filling bin with new crop where old crop already exists.
Clean and check aeration system. Foreign material may collect in ducts, creating an insect breeding
environment and obstructing airflow.
Grain Condition for Storage
Crops store best when they are cool, dry and clean. Mold growth depends on both temperature and crop moisture
content. Crops containing considerable foreign material or broken kernels will be more susceptible to mold and
insects. As a result, grain should be cleaned to reduce this hazard or be dried to a moisture content level 1% to
2% lower than clean crops.
Checking Grain
All stored grain needs to be checked on a regular basis - at least bi-weekly during critical fall and spring months
when outside air temperatures change rapidly. Check grain at least once per month during winter, but more often
if there are problems. Search for small changes that are indicators of potential problems, such as crusting or
condensation on bin roof. Checking moisture content of grain with a moisture meter may also be necessary.
Check and record temperatures at several points in bin. Any increase in temperature indicates a problem unless
outdoor temperatures are warmer than crop. Testing weight of grain is another way to monitor its quality.
Filling and Coring Bin
Best storage results are obtained when crop is level in bin. Lowering center core of stored crop improves airflow
through central area and makes checking crop easier. Leveling can be accomplished with a grain spreader or by
withdrawing grain from center after filling.
In most bins, normal grain discharge flow creates a center core that flows directly down to unload conveyor or
spout. This action creates an inverted cone in surface grain that gradually increases in diameter. As unload runs,
grain on sides of inverted cone slopes gradually and slides into bottom of cone, where it funnels down center core
to conveyor or spout.
A bin filled to its peak will not have uniform airflow. Peaked grain is hard to manage and is particularly risky when
grain is stored above its safe moisture content. Part of the peak in all bins should be removed by coring bin, a
process especially important both in bins filled with moist grain and those without a powered grain spreader that
levels surface and spreads fines and trash. Coring bin removes majority of fines and foreign material because
most fines tend to accumulate in center of bin. As fines restrict airflow and make grain more susceptible to
spoilage, this airflow-improving process helps aeration fans work more efficiently and reduces chance of spoilage.
Summary of Contents for Fastir
Page 4: ...Limited Warranty 4 LIMITED WARRANTY...
Page 50: ...Appendix A Wiring Diagrams 50 Figure 52 Double Auger Fastir Wiring Diagram...
Page 51: ...Appendix A Wiring Diagrams 51 Figure 53 Triple Auger Fastir Wiring Diagram...
Page 52: ...Appendix A Wiring Diagrams 52 Figure 54 Quadruple Auger Fastir Wiring Diagram...
