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Drying

Grain stored for more than a few weeks must have a moisture content of 14.5% or less (7.5% for rapeseed) to protect quality. Drying is achieved using heated air in batch or continuous drying systems, or by bulk or near-ambient drying. A careful balance must be maintained as under-drying increases the risk of spoilage and loss of quality. Over-drying wastes fuel, reduces dryer throughput and may increase heat damage.

  

	TS16	Bulk storage drying of grain and oilseeds (1998) A basic introduction to bulk storage drying or 'near-ambient drying', which should be read in conjunction with Project Progress 13 On-flour drying to minimize grain spoilage
	TS60	Ensuring good germination in malting barley (2002) Examines the causes of poor germination and describes drying, cooling and storage conditions to ensure good germination of malting barley
	TS78	Drying and cooling grain: an update (2004) A summary of drying and cooling requirements to ensure that grain can be stored safely with minimum risk of mycotoxin (Ochratoxin A), pests and loss of germinative capacity
	TS89	Drying and storing rapeseed successfully (2005) Gives the results of a survey on drying/cooling of rapeseed and outlines the conditions needed to dry and store rapeseed safely

 

PP13

On-floor drying to minimize grain spoilage (2006) Outlines the drying requirements to minimize the risk of grain spoilage due to the formation of the mycotoxin Ochratoxin A

  

	G37	Grain moisture - guidelines for measurement (2008) Explores the importance of measuring moisture content and provides practical pointers for getting the best from your moisture meter
	G02	Moisture Meter Guidelines (2002) A review of the performance of a range of moisture meters (current at publication date) and guidelines for effective use of meters

  

	Safe Storage Time Calculator (2006) For a safe storage risk assessment, use this straightforward spreadsheet immediately after harvest to record moisture and temperature as you dry/cool your grain
	Grain moisture calculator (interactive) Based on the initial and final moisture readings from a sample of grain, calculate the weight loss from the drying process.
	BulkDry, BulkDryRape and Bulk cool (2009) Interactive simulation programmes for near ambient grain and oilseed drying and cooling.  Using local weather data, explore different scenarios to achieve safe and cost-effective drying.