Are you looking to learn more about aeration and its use in grain storage? We can help with our brief explainer on the importance of aeration in grain storage and why it’s crucial for many farmers.

What Is Grain Storage Aeration?

If you’re unfamiliar with the term “aeration,” the dictionary definition is basically the introduction of air into a material—in this case, into a storage bin full of grain. Aeration systems introduce and disperse an even amount of airflow into grain bins using fans to cool the temperature of the grain and slightly reduce moisture.

There are many calculations and considerations that go into aerating a grain bin—from the air flow rate to the pressure within the grain bin and desired temperature. Farmers typically use two types of fans for aeration—axial and centrifugal fans. Even if you’ve never been on a farm or seen a grain bin, you’ve no doubt come across these fans that are often used for everyday purposes.

Are Aeration & Drying Different?

While they may seem similar, there is a significant distinction between grain storage aeration and grain storage drying. Aeration means the movement of a small amount of air—and while it helps to cool the grain and does a little to reduce moisture, it’s not nearly as effective as air-drying.

Air-drying requires much more airflow to significantly reduce the moisture of the grain and avoid accumulation, which can destroy large percentages of grain in storage if left unchecked. Whether you should aerate or air-dry your grain will depend on a multitude of factors like:

• How long the grain will be stored
• Regional weather conditions
• Grain storage capacity
• Availability of power at the location
• Budget

Why Do Farmers Need Grain Storage Aeration?

Two significant risks to grain while in storage for farmers are spoiling from moisture and pest infestation. Aeration lowers the grain’s temperature, so it’s consistent and universal throughout the bin—this prevents moisture from migrating and condensing.

Without aeration, moisture and condensation can run rampant and spread throughout a grain bin and cause significant damage to the harvest by producing bacteria, mold, and insects. Farmers must utilize every technique to avoid loss of grain in storage when the margins on a profitable crop are thin.

We hope you’ve learned a bit more about the importance of aeration in grain storage and why it’s so crucial for many farmers. If you’d like to learn more, feel free to contact Grain Handling Direct, where we have grain bins for sale and an expert team ready to answer any questions about grain handling and storage.