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• Grain is a living organism, and to maintain best quality needs to breath. Aeration of grain storages provides a number of benefits, including:

• • Reduced insect activity

• •Reduced growth of moulds and mildews . It also

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• •Evens out temperature

• •Helps prevent "hot spots" in the grain

• •Helps maintain germination rates of seed

• •Evens out moisture 

• •Prevents moisture and temperature migration

It has been shown in many trials conducted by research bodies around the world that if grain temperatures can be reduced to 15 degrees C or lower that insect activity virtually ceases. Grain temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees will see a reduction in insect activity, and over 20 degrees C insects can flourish.

Germination rates of seed will be adversely affected by prolonged storage at high temperatures, and cooling aeration will overcome the problem if maintained correctly. 

Aeration works by pushing cool air through the grain, reducing grain temperature, and equalising temperature and moisture. As insects do not like the cold grain they cease activity, and do not breed or eat. Only relatively low air flows are required to achieve an excellent result - air flows of 2 litres per second per tonne are generally accepted as a good level.

For more information on how aeration works, download this booklet written by T.Fusae, by clicking no1storagev1.4.2

 In most cases a single aeration unit can be used, but if high moisture grain, or grain with high levels of trash or admixture is to be stored, a second unit is often installed to provide even air distribution.