OVERVIEW
Grain is stored often in the outdoor pile for a short period of time. But, rain is a challenge to an uncovered grain. Statistically, 1-inch of rain increases the amount of moisture in a 1-foot layer of corn by 9%. This automatically brings about the loss of at least 2-feet of grain on the pile surface.
Make Utmost Use Of The Sprayer
If there is a loss of 1-foot on the surface of a 25-foot high, cone-shaped pile, this is a loss of about 13% of the total grain. This is equivalent to losing $9,750 if the grain is valued at $1 per bushel.
Perfect For Temporary Storage
Grain Covers
Grain covers are held tight with the combination of straps and suction from the aeration system. In other to conquer the challenge of condensation, perforate the grain to provide a controlled air intake for the aeration system and airflow near the cover.
Ducts should be placed on the ground beneath the pile to pull air through the grain. If a perforated grain wall is used, the aeration ducts close to the wall should not be perforated otherwise the airflow through the grain will not be enough to near the wall.
Perforation
Perforations for aeration ducts need to be sized and spaced correctly, to allow air to and fro the ducts in a uniform manner and get satisfactory airflow via the grain. This is calculated using the maximum spacing for aeration ducts equal the grain depth to attain suitable airflow uniformity.
Protection From The Elements
Winter Rated
ALCO covers provide low temperature protection for the coldest climates.
UV Rated
ALCO covers provide UV protection for the sunniest hottest climates.
Wind Rated
ALCO covers provide extreme wind protection for the widest climates.
Rain Rated
ALCO covers provide rain protection for the wettest climates.
Keep The Grain Safe From Rodents
Do you Intend Creating An Outdoor Pile?
If your answer to the above question is Yes, then you need to take note of the following:
- Prevent water infiltration with covers, for aeration and wind blowing will not dry wet grain adequately to prevent spoilage.
- Prepare the ground surface with lime, use ash or cement to stop soil moisture from reaching the grain.
- Pile storage should be placed on floor higher than the surrounding ground to reduce moisture transfer from the soil to the grain.
- Ensure the ground surface is crowned to avert moisture into the pile drains out rather than building a wet pocket that results in grain deterioration.
- Examine the entire area to avoid flooding during major rain events.
Chilling Stored Grain
Chilling grain with aeration helps to reduce insect infestation potential. Temperature affects the function of insects. If the temperature is reduced to 60°F reproduction is reduced, it goes below 50°F insects become dormant and they can be terminated if the temperature reduces further to 30°F.
Chilling grain as outdoor temperatures cool reduces moisture movement and the condensation prospective near the top of the grain pile. Furthermore, grain moisture content and temperature affect the growth of mold and grain deterioration, with the permitted storage time approximately doubling with each 10°F reduction in grain temperature.
It is appropriate that grains be cooled anytime the average outdoor temperature is 10° or 15° cooler than the grain. It should be cooled to an equivalent degree or below 30°F for winter storage in northern states and below 40°F in states warmer temperatures.