Lecture 8

1. Lecture 8 In Bin Continuous Flow

2. In Bin Continuous Flow • Grain bins are used as wet-holding & Drying bin • Dry grain is removed from bottom of bin

3. Equipment • Fan & Heater • Perf. Drying floor • Tapered sweep auger • Grain spreader • Vertical auger rated at 200-400 bu/hr • 140-200 degrees F • 3 to 4 million BTU • Sensors to regulate • Plenum Temperature • Sweep Auger

4. Use of higher drying temperatures Same capacity as cont. flow portable, but more efficient One bin that is dedicated to drying Accumulation of fines in the center of bin after three days of operation Advantages & Disadvantages

5. Physical Performance • Depth of grain impacts drying capacity –adding 2 ft reduces some by 17 bu/hr • Minimum of 1.5 ft needed to dry-sizing becomes a problem • Slightly higher initial cost • Can modify existing bin, by adding a tapered sweep auger, wall stiffeners & floor supports may be needed • In cool climates may need a bin liner to prevent condensation

6. Combination Drying • Use of two or more methods • Moisture dropped then completed in another bin

7. Start harvest sooner More efficient drying system Less risk More flexibility Easy way to add capacity Capital intensive Usually an added to system More management Advantages & Disadvantages

8. Stirring Devices • Combination of an “arm” & vertical augers • Reduces: • Resistance to air flow • Hot spots • Wet spots • Increases efficiency • Occupies bin space • Fines settle out to bottom of bin

9. Stirring Devices • Must be able to mix 2 times during drying period • More of an advantage in high temp bins • Increase capacity as much as 50% • In hot drying conditions increase by 30% + • Pays for itself, especially in over drying conditions • Quickest way to expand drying capacity