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October 13, 2020

A simple grain inventory management system: Get a solid ROI while keeping your feet planted on the ground

by BinMaster, USA

It is time to put an end to climbing bins.

Knowing the volume and value of what is stored in grain bins is surprisingly simple and inexpensive. Installing a solution that measures grain bin levels automatically and lets you access inventory from your phone or computer can improve inventory accuracy, save time, and keep employees safe from the perils of climbing bins.
 


Sensors measure sans climbing

Many grain facilities still rely on climbing bins and dropping tape measures to see how much room in left in grain bins. An automated tape measure, also known as a weight and cable or bob, has been one of the most common technologies for grain level measurement for about 25 years. These sensors work by periodically dropping a weighted cable into the bin and when the weight reaches the grain surface, the cable retracts and measures by counting pulses that are converted into a distance by the electronics.

The SmartBob remote is ideally mounted one-sixth from the outer perimeter of the bin to provide the most accurate volume for a centre-fill, centre discharge bin. It is programmed to take measurements at predetermined time intervals, generally ranging from once-an-hour to once-a-day. Measurements can also be taken manually when needed. It is accurate within six millimetres and highly reliable as it always takes the measurement in the same spot, unlike a person who may not drop the tape measure in the same spot consistently.

SmartBobs are a very economical sensor with a price range of UK £1300-to-1500. They are highly dependable, simple to operate, and have a long service life. Bob systems well more than a decade old are still in service and working reliably harvest after harvest.

Bobs and other types of continuous level sensors are relatively simple to install. Most grain storage facilities install the sensors themselves without the need for bringing in an electrician or contractor. There are even new models of sensors that run on battery power, so no wiring is necessary. Installation is as easy as putting a battery in a flashlight.

Beyond the bob, there are other types of level sensors used for inventory management of grain. Non-contact radars provide continuous level measurement in very dusty environments. They measure a single point in the bin with very high accuracy and update very quickly. 3DLevelScanners are the best solution for large diameter storage bins or those with multiple filling or emptying points. The scanner can detect irregular grain piling, cone up or down conditions, and sidewall buildup. A 3DLevelScanner is also the only type of level sensor to generate a three-dimensional image of the bin’s grain topography.


Read more 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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