By Jamie Martin
As spring temperatures rise, the risk of grain spoilage also increases. Proper monitoring and storage are essential to maintain grain quality during this period.
According to Ken Hellevang, an Extension agricultural engineer at North Dakota State University, “The stored grain temperature increases in parts of a bin in the spring due to solar heat gain on the bin.”
Solar energy affects the south walls and roofs of storage bins, causing uneven heating. A 10°F increase in grain temperature cuts the storage time by half. For instance, corn at 17% moisture has a storage life of 130 days at 50°F but only 45 days at 70°F.
To slow spoilage, dry grain should be kept below 40°F using aeration fans during spring nights. In northern regions, nighttime temperatures can fall to 30°F in April and 40°F in May.
Operators should open bin doors to relieve pressure when using fans at freezing temperatures and cover fans when not in use to avoid warm air entering the bin.
Grain moisture and temperature should be checked every two weeks in spring and summer. A temperature rise might indicate spoilage or insect activity. Moisture meters may be inaccurate at low temperatures, so warming samples before checking is recommended.
Drying grains to the correct moisture level is also crucial for safe storage. Recommended levels include 13%-14% for corn, 11%-12% for soybeans, 13% for wheat, 12% for barley, and 8% for oil sunflowers. Grain in storage bags must also be dry, as warming outdoor temperatures speed up spoilage.
Positioning grain bags east-west can cause temperature differences, leading to moisture movement inside. Continue checking bagged grain regularly.
Lastly, safety is a priority around storage systems. Hellevang reminds, “Everyone needs to become aware of safety hazards associated with handling grain and to apply recommended safety practices.”
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Categories: National