Ontario Grain Farmer November 2021

water content,” highlighting wet spots and areas where problems might form. At least in theory, the idea is to monitor 100 per cent of the grain mass in order to get ahead of potential problems. While the cost of such a system might be higher than cables, Dyck believes larger scale sensor networks might be particularly useful for those frequently filling bins in stages. OTHER TECHNOLOGIES At the research level, gas analysis tools are also being investigated. Dyck says the idea relies on the “chemical signatures of spoilage” — that is, what chemical compounds are being emitted by the organism or conditions causing reductions in quality. Because even full bins contain a significant amount of air space around and within the grain mass, it is thought sensors looking for spoil-related gases could work much in the same way as moisture or heat sensors. ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER 21 NOVEMBER 2021 Sensors looking for spoil-related gases could work much in the same way as moisture or heat sensors. Currently, there is also focus on rapid testing at pre-storage stages. If, for example, a chute or auger could be outfitted with what Dyck calls an “in-line” analysis tool, it would be possible to track the quality of grain going into the bin. This could provide a baseline for aeration timing once the grain mass is inside the structure, as well as other business strategies. “If problems are detected early on or at loading, it might be an opportunity to sell lower quality stuff earlier so it doesn’t go bad on you,” he says. Automated aeration or alert tools are also available thanks to the general proliferation of digital systems (specifically smartphones, tablets, and other personal computers). The expertise which might be needed to install and connect systems to personal computers is itself widely available. “Suppliers of that type of equipment can either direct you to an installer or technician which can help you do that.” Fill level monitoring systems using ultrasonic sensors and Lidar — a method of measuring distance with lasers — are yet another tool type drawing interest. DON’T GET COMPLACENT Regardless of the monitoring method, Dyck reiterates grain going into a bin is already at its optimal quality. That quality can only degrade inside the container, meaning growers and elevators should not count their proverbial chickens before the eggs hatch. “If you don’t know what’s going on you’ll assume no news is good news. The point of monitoring is to go looking and make sure there isn’t something going wrong,” he says. “Just don’t forget about it. Don’t assume when you put it in the bin it will be fine when you take it out. It can be easy to do. 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