A recent study by the GRDC National Grain Storage Extension Team highlights a vital insight: relying on theoretical models for aeration fan performance isn’t enough — real-world testing is critical. Research involving backpressure and flow testing showed that fans with identical motor specifications performed very differently under typical storage conditions. In practical terms, at a backpressure of around 300 pascals (a level you’d encounter in around 100 tonnes of grain), airflow varied dramatically—from just 120 liters per second to as much as 360 L/s—depending solely on the fan’s impeller and housing design.
Continue readingChanging storage practices may lead to an improved falling number
New research supported by GRDC and led by Agriculture Victoria scientists Dr Cassandra Walker and Dr Pankaj Maharjan suggests that on-farm storage practices may play a role in lifting the falling number of wheat after harvest. Their work showed that wheat samples with a moderate falling number (200–300 seconds) could increase by up to 50 seconds during 24 weeks of storage, often moving them above the key 300-second benchmark. High-range samples above 400 seconds continued to improve until plateauing at around 36 weeks, while low-range samples showed little change.
Continue readingThe Science of Cool
The GRDC Grain Storage Extension team travelled extensively, gathering data on aeration performance in the field. The team tested some 48 different silo configurations with a range of fan types and with different grain types and depths.
Continue readingGRDC GrowNotes Grain Storage
GRDC Grain Storage Manual: Get Your Updated Copy!
Updated grain storage manual now available in hard copy from GRDC or pdf https://storedgrain.com.au/grdc-grownotes-grain-storage/ Thanks to the GRDC’s grain storage specialist Chris Warrick.
Continue readingGrain Silo Considerations and Aeration Performance
Grain Silo Considerations and Aeration Performance, guides growers through essential factors to consider when choosing and managing grain silos. For growers looking to enhance storage conditions, this article provides a comprehensive look at how optimal aeration and silo choice work together to support long-term grain quality and safety.
Continue readingGRDC Grains Research Update, Online – Grain Storage update for the Western Region
Aeration, Back Pressure, fan performance, field testing, Fumigation, phosphine, Resistance, update, Venting, webinar
Continue readingGRDC Grains Research Update Online – Grain storage update for the Northern & Southern regions
GRDC Grains Research Update, Online – Grain Storage update for the Western Region. Including topics – Aeration, Back Pressure, Fan performance, Field testing, Fumigation, Phosphine Resistance, Venting.
Continue readingInsect resistance testing
Contact details to send grain storage insect samples for resistance testing.
Continue readingGrain Aeration Design and Performance Guide 2024
This summary of development activity work conducted by the GRDC grain storage extension team investigates current knowledge and understandings relating to the aeration of grain in storage in Australia.
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