April 3, 2014
Canola may be stored longer than usual and in bigger quantities this year. As outside temperatures warm up, it becomes important to check bins again to make sure canola inside safely makes the transition from winter to spring and summer. Movement of air and moisture inside bins is greatest when the temperature difference between inside and outside is greatest. Increased…
January 9, 2014
Moisture migration in a canola bin peaks when the temperature difference between inside and outside the bin is high. If canola in the bin is -20C and the outside air warms up for a week, this can increase air flow and moisture concentration inside the bin…
November 6, 2013
When outside air is colder than stored canola, another moisture cycle begins within the bin. The grain mass on the outside edge cools first. This colder air migrates down through grain along the bin wall then up through the central core, picking up warmth and moisture along the way. This creates a pocket of humid and warmer air at the…
October 2, 2013
Canola binned hot, even if it has low moisture, low dockage and low green, should still be put on aeration. Target a core temperature of 15°C before stopping the aeration fans, and watch throughout the winter to make sure it doesn’t start to increase…
September 25, 2013
With a bumper harvest predicted for many areas, bin space will be at a premium. Not all canola will be able to go on aeration right away. And not all canola will be going into bins originally planned for canola. This has its risks…
September 18, 2013
The number one risk: Neglected bins. Growers are busy enough at harvest just getting the crop off, but take time to check all bins within the first two weeks after filling, and then again a couple more times until the canola is cool and winter sets in. Canola seed continues to sweat during the first 4 to 6 weeks after…
September 18, 2013
Harvest is a farmer’s busiest time of the year and unfortunately one of the most dangerous. Fatigue and stress often lead to shortcuts and unsafe practices during this time. It is essential to take breaks, slow down, follow safe practices, and ensure everyone on the farm is trained to do the task at hand…
September 11, 2013
Canola at 10% moisture is at risk of spoilage when binned at 20°C. At 25-30°C, the spoilage risk is that much greater. Canola at 8% moisture is also at risk if not cooled immediately after storage. The first 4-6 weeks are critical. Canola in storage keeps respiring during that time, releasing moisture into the air around the seed. This moisture…
September 11, 2013
A recent canola bag storage study concluded that: —Harvest bags are best used as a short term storage solution under Prairie conditions. —Dry canola (less than or equal to 10% moisture) can be stored for up to eight months and 12% moisture content canola can be stored for up to five months without any significant change in quality or grade…
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