Olds College Centre for Innovation (OCCI) and Top Grade Ag are continuing a multi-year research project investigating technology that could improve the cost effectiveness and efficiencies involved in drying grain. It involves the company’s In-Bin Drying Monitor, which uses a proprietary algorithm with pressure, temperature and humidity sensors to optimize grain drying procedures. It could improve the cost effectiveness and efficiencies involved in drying grain by offering an alternative to specialized grain drying equipment requiring a higher initial capital investment.
Using sensors to estimate airflow, temperature and humidity at the air inlet and outlet, this technology allows operators to track the progress of in-bin grain drying events. This enables farmers to optimize their drying operation while reducing energy consumption and total input drying costs. Researchers are focusing on further investigations of previous findings, as well as examining operational grain drying experiences at the Olds College Smart Farm and among clients of Top Grade Ag. The Smart Farm is a living laboratory on campus for crop, livestock and agricultural technology research spread over 3,000 acres. Ongoing research continues with Top Grade Ag, which began working with OCCI in 2019.
Funders/Partners: CFI/RCP, NSERC, PrairiesCan, RCP, Top Grade Ag
In 2022, OCCI worked with Top Grade Ag to determine if accumulated growing degree days could be an indicator to estimate harvest dates for spring wheat, with consideration for grain quality and optimal harvest timing. In 2023, a similar project was repeated using malt barley.
The use of growing degree days to estimate crop growth stages is well-documented. When growing degree days are combined with additional sources of information – such as remote sensing, in-field scouting reports, and field-specific information – the accuracy of the predictive models is increased.
Estimated moisture of the TGA Control Center was ±0.16% of actual moisture — level of accuracy is very acceptable for typical on-farm use.
Using current TGA technology to predict the formation of condensation development is possible.
Multi-year project continues with opportunities for additional testing.
Top Grade Ag software is user friendly, effective and intuitive.
Sensors are highly accurate at measuring air temperature, humidity and static pressure.
Ongoing multi-year project with opportunities for additional testing.