Expert Advice - Bins and Augers

In a market that is heavily driven by weather, having an efficient and proactive grain handling and storage strategy is essential. Whether you’re purchasing a new bin for the first time or you’re seeking new bin size options, there are several factors to consider before making such an investment — especially if you’re looking at large bin sizes. To put this matter into perspective — large storage bins are housing your livelihood, and therefore require careful consideration. Here are some important factors that should affect your decision-making.

Bin Capacity

Bin capacity is likely to be your first consideration. Once you’ve determined the number of bushels you want in a new bin, consider adding more. Having the extra storage will cover your storage needs when you experience bumper crops, change the structure of your crop rotation, or take on extra acres. Some farmers may not wish to mix different varieties of the same crop — especially if they switch fields and are concerned with the overall grade of the finished product. Choosing the right capacity bin will be determined by what each individual farmer is comfortable with. In most cases, getting a large diameter bin (more than 30 feet in diameter) at less cost per bushel will save the producer the extra cost of the hopper cone. 

Pros and Cons of Large Diameter Bins

Pros:

• Filling capacity makes it more efficient for moving augers around from bin to bin
• Better air coverage with full-floor aeration
• Less cost per bushel than a smaller diameter bin on a hopper bottom

Cons:

• Maintenance and power requirements may be greater
• The resale value is not as high as hopper bottom bins
• If an upgraded auger is required, you may need a higher-horse-power tractor to operate it

Determining Bin Size Based on Price Per Bushel

When choosing a grain bin, farmers should calculate the cost per bushel of the bin they are considering. Cost per bushel is normally determined by the size of the bins — as bins get wider and taller, the cost per bushel decreases.
The maximum diameter of the bin you choose will depend on the layout of your yard and the space needed for auger loading. Where space is an issue, you may consider adding height. However, overly tall bins will reduce the conditioning capabilities with aeration, requiring more conditioning/aeration and creating a potential risk for airflow reduction due to lack of fan power.

Yard Layout

Simply choosing to put a new large-diameter bin into the farmyard isn’t going to cut it. It’s important to factor in the flow of traffic in your yard space, as well as your long-term development plans. This includes the addition of other stationery or mobile grain-handling equipment, such as grain dryers, fans, and aeration units. You will also need a long enough auger to reach the large bin, and remain compatible with your yard space and layout.

After Your Purchase

As with most on-farm assets, maintenance of your grain bins will extend their longevity. Consider potential storage problems, such as fans that have iced over in poor weather or condensation building on the roof of your bin if not aerated properly.
In addition, long-term storage may invite unwanted insects and, thus, sterilization is important. Checking the temperature, and ensuring proper aeration and sterilization is essential regardless of your bin size.

Source: www.agros.crs/equip

Expert Advice Is Available

Whether you’re looking to replace existing bins, increase your storage capacity or looking for assistance with your grain handling needs, our Ag Equipment team is always ready to help you explore your options.

To learn more about our available grain bins, call our Ag Equip Sales Team today! 1-877-403-3127