If an aeration system is not available, turning grain outside the bin is an alternative to aerating it in the bin when the ambient air temperature falls below +15C.
It is important to monitor grain temperature and to keep stored grain cool and dry by regularly aerating it through mechanical aeration or by turning it.
Moisture and warm temperatures allow the growth of moulds and the development of an environment that is suitable for insects.
If warm grain is placed into storage and left undisturbed, convection currents may develop and cause hot spots and condensation. The greater the temperature differential, the stronger the convection current. The stronger the convection, the greater the effect of heating and condensation. This is particularly evident when grain is not levelled and the pile forms a peak.
If the moisture content is 13 per cent or higher when stored and the grain remains warm for a long time, it can be damaged by fungal activity. Fungi may subsequently produce mycotoxins. However, when grain with a high moisture content is cooled to below +10C, it can be stored for months without moulds forming.
Check the temperature every two weeks. Measure temperature by using temperature-sensing cables that are permanently installed or by probing with an electronic sensor.
If devices for measuring temperature are not available,
Assess the general temperature by inserting a metal rod into the grain at the top of the pile near the centre. The rod should reach at least one metre into the grain.
Leave the rod for approximately 30 minutes.
Remove the rod and, with the palm of the hand, test it for warmth at various points from the tip. Any section of the rod that feels warm to the touch is an indication of heating and grain spoilage.
HOW AERATION SYSTEMS WORK
Stored grains should be aerated as soon as possible after harvest, particularly if aeration can reduce the bulk temperature below +18C. When the ambient temperature falls below that of the grain bulk, initially during the early evening, night, and early morning, you can use aeration to reduce the temperature of the grain.
If you aerate grain when the ambient temperature is above +20C and the temperature of the grain is above +30C, the odours produced will be more attractive to insect pests. Under very warm conditions, sanitation involving cleaning and treating grain is very important in preventing problems.
As well as preventing insect infestations, aeration is also very effective in controlling them. Once the grain temperature is reduced to below +18C (which prevents insect feeding and reproduction) a further temperature reduction can be used to cause mortality. Refer to the disinfestation time periods required at low temperatures table.
OTHER AERATION METHODS
If an aeration system is not available, turning grain outside the bin is an alternative to aerating it in the bin when the ambient air temperature falls below +15C. Turn the grain every two to four weeks until the grain temperature reaches +15C. This procedure involves removing about one-third of the grain from the bin and putting it back in the bin.
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