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February 18, 2018

19/02/2018: Reduce post-harvest losses with safe and effective grain bin storage solutions

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.
 
www.superiorbins.com

“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,” Mr 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).


Read the full article, HERE.
 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.


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