by Jon Engelstad, International Sales Manager, Superior Grain Equipment
Excessive moisture, high temperature, and poor grain condition (insects or damaged kernels) are generally considered the most important factors that lead to problems with stored grain. Reducing poverty and increasing food security cannot be attained if farmers are unable to safely and efficiently store grains and sell surplus production at attractive prices. These issues can easily be addressed by proper grain storage and management.
"Grain bins can dramatically reduce post-harvest losses and provide producers with a safe and effective means of storing their grain for the short- or long-term and, in the end, selling a quality product at premium prices. Choosing the correct bin depends on several factors including farm size, total storage requirements, grain type, storage objectives, length of storage, location and local weather," says Jon Engelstad, International Sales Manager at Superior Grain Equipment.
Site planning is an important aspect of adding grain bin storage. It"s easy to focus on today"s production and forget to factor in future growth. As agriculture has evolved and seed varieties have improved, expected yields continue to grow. Planning for that growth or the growth brought about by farming additional land is critical to successfully selecting the best bin site.
"At Superior Grain Equipment, our experts work with producers to determine the most efficient and economical bin storage solution for their needs while keeping in mind future growth. Since bins require more investment up front, it is important to us that producer"s storage needs are met so they can quickly recover their costs to maximise profits."
Strength and durability are important factors when purchasing bin storage. Grain bins should be able to withstand the harshest elements whether it"s extreme heat or high winds.
"We take pride in manufacturing using only the highest quality materials and incorporating the latest innovations to build the most durable grain bins available. All Superior bins are made from Grade 50 steel that has a tensile strength up to 65,000 psi and a G-90 bright galvanised steel coating to protect against the elements," Engelstad says.
"A strong roof is an essential part of the grain bin structure. More than that, it"s crucial to maintaining the entire structure. Full-length roof sheets, 3-1/2-inch (88.9 mm) deep rigidised roof ribs, wind rings and corrugation for added strength are some of what sets Superior roofs apart. Superior is so confident in the quality of our roofs that we are the only manufacturer in the industry to offer a lifetime roof warranty on unstiffened farm bins."
Limited pest control and fumigation to control pests contributes significantly to post-harvest losses. Engelstad says Superior grain bins are designed to reduce pest access and can be sealed during the fumigation process to protect grain. "Our vent seal kit uses a proven technique that allows the producer to completely seal the bin during the fumigation process."
For the small producer, Superior provides a line of unstiffened and stiffened farm bins with capacities ranging from 1850 bushels (50 metric tonnes) to more than 185,000 bushels (5,000 metric tonnes).
"Our farm bin roofs are manufactured with roof ribs that are locked to the roof wing ring so the roof acts as a single, dynamic unit. Bottom ring strength and stability is also an important factor when purchasing a bin. Base anchors are used to secure the bin to the concrete and can often be a weak point on bins. At Superior, our unstiffened farm bins are anchored with a full 44-inch (1,1117.6 mm) base anchor stiffener resulting in a bottom ring strength equivalent to a ring two gauges thicker. Superior backs their bottom rings on unstiffened farm bins with a lifetime bottom ring warranty."
Larger producers are driving a demand for bigger, stronger grain systems. The ability to safely and efficiently process large amounts of grain and maximise throughput depends on systems built to withstand the stresses of daily use. Superior offers a complete line of commercial grain bins ranging from 12,580 bushels (340 metric tonnes) to more than 795,500 bushels (21,500 metric tonnes) and grain handling equipment that can be customised to fit your operation"s needs.
"Our commercial bins carry vertical loads to the foundation to resist winds up to 90-miles an hour (145 km/h) and feature one of the industry"s strongest roofs. Our structured roofs utilise tension purlins that are designed to go into tension as the weight of the roof pushes down, stabilising both the roof and sidewall sheets to eliminate distortion. This, along with A-frame rafters and X-bracing, gives our commercial bins the ability to support grain handling systems with peak loads up to 50,000 pounds (22,680 kg)."
Today, grain bins aren"t just storage units; they"re also conditioning units that help control temperature and moisture to improve and maintain the condition of your grain. Monitoring the temperature of grain on a regular basis gives the manager the best chance to make a correction when a temperature change is occurring, preserving good quality in grain.
Knowing the temperature of the grain also makes it possible for the fans to be run only when they are needed, saving money in utilities. Superior offers a complete line of temperature monitoring and control systems, aeration fans and floors, and unloading systems that can be customised to your storage needs.
Grain bin storage provides options for producers to enter the market when it makes the most sense, with the best price. It provides the time and space to be sure grain is in optimal condition so you minimise dockage and maximise profits.
"Superior Grain Equipment manufactures a complete line of grain storage, handling and conditioning equipment that can be relied on for generations. Warranties, superior customer service and people with integrity is what makes Superior an excellent company to work with and a strong partner," Engelstad concludes.
