When the grain processing equipment at RC Reed Ltd began nearing the end of its operational life, Director Andrew Reed recognised the need to modernise the farm’s drying and storage infrastructure. Based in Berwick-upon-Tweed, the business farms 760ha growing winter barley, oilseed rape, wheat, spring barley and spring beans.
Having previously worked with McArthur BDC, Reed approached the company to discuss how best to expand the farm’s drying and storage capabilities while replacing its ageing grain drier.
“Having an established relationship with McArthur BDC, I was aware of its grain handling expertise, proven record of successfully delivering new and upgraded grain processing plants and knew it delivered great customer service and support,” said Reed.
Alongside his farming activities, Reed is also a member of England’s curling team and was preparing to compete in the World C Qualification event in Slovenia during the project.
Expanding Storage and Drying Capacity
Working with an independent shed builder, Reed opted to construct a new grain store adjacent to the farm’s existing storage facility. Discussions with McArthur BDC then focused on identifying the most suitable grain handling and drying equipment for the new system.
Initially undecided between a mobile batch grain drier and a continuous flow drier, Reed sought advice from both McArthur BDC and fellow farmers before selecting an Akronmaster AB Svegma 38tph continuous flow drier.
“Svegma’s established reliability and efficiency means that its driers are held in high esteem, and they have a real following in Northumberland and the Scottish borders,” Reed explained.
The Svegma drier was installed outdoors, centrally positioned between the new and existing grain stores.
Integrated Handling and Moisture Monitoring
As part of the upgrade, Reed also installed a McArthur BDC Moisture Monitoring System (MMS). The system automatically samples incoming wet grain and outgoing dried grain as it enters and exits the Svegma drier, helping ensure grain reaches the optimum moisture level before entering storage.
“By liaising closely with the McArthur BDC team, I was able to draw on its extensive knowledge and advice around the grain handling equipment to be installed to meet my individual requirements,” said Reed.
On McArthur BDC’s recommendation, the site was equipped with Skandia Elevator I-Line handling equipment, including three 60tph elevators and eight 60tph conveyors, one of which serves as a trench intake conveyor. The installation also includes an Aagaard aspirator cleaner.
Grain Flow and Plant Operation
Grain entering the system is tipped into the intake before being transported by elevator to the Aagaard cleaner. After cleaning, the grain moves via another elevator and conveyor to the Svegma drier and MMS system. If the drier reaches capacity, grain is returned to the intake using a conveyor system.
Once dried, the grain is directed to either the existing or new grain store, with a valve determining the destination.
The operation and integration of the plant are managed through a McArthur BDC PLC touchscreen control panel, enabling remote monitoring via laptop or mobile device.
Operational Benefits
The project also highlighted the importance of on-farm drying capacity. Delays in constructing the new grain store meant Reed was without a drier for one harvest season and was forced to sell wet grain.
“The construction of the new grain store took longer than anticipated which meant I did not have a drier, so for one harvest I had to sell wet grain which resulted in me having to pay UK£30,000 in drying costs,” Reed said. “A reminder, if any was needed, of the importance of having drying capabilities on farm.”
The completed installation has provided RC Reed Ltd with additional storage capacity while improving the efficiency of harvest operations through upgraded drying and handling systems.
Reflecting on the project, Reed advised other farmers considering similar investments to seek practical insight from industry peers and work closely with suppliers to determine the most suitable system requirements.
“Anyone looking to build a new grain store or upgrade their existing facilities should talk to other farmers about the equipment they have chosen and why,” he said.
“It is also important to find a supplier who will work with you to fully understand what you need, not necessarily what you think you need, so that you end up with a system that meets, and hopefully, exceeds your expectations. You need look no further than McArthur BDC.”
