Dryeration Module

Dryeration increases energy efficiency by 15 to 30 percent compared to high temperature drying with immediate cooling. This grain module is brought to you by the Iowa Grain Quality Initiative and was produced by the former Crop Adviser Institute.

Click here to access the Dryeration Module

Learning objective: Understand the dryeration process, review the equipment needed, and learn effective management strategies to carry out the dryeration process.

Introduction: High temperature drying is halted when grain is slightly above the finished moisture content target. Hot grain is moved from the dryer to a separate bin to steep before cooling. Additional moisture is removed during the cooling process and the cooled grain is then transferred to storage.

Equipment: Some equipment modification is needed for dryeration. A high temperature dryer will do the majority of the grain drying but a separate dedicated bin for steeping and cooling the grain is also needed. Additionally, extra conveyers are needed to move the hot grain to the cooling bins and the cool grain to storage, with controls to manage the cooling fans and conveyers.

Management tips: Stop the dryer and transfer the hot grain 2 to 3 percent points above the desired moisture content. Allow the hot grain to steep at least four hours, then cool the grain and transfer it to storage. Check the finished moisture content and adjust the drying time as needed.

Supporting information:

Dryeration and combination drying for increased capacity and efficiency

Crop Dryeration and In-Storage Cooling

Fan Sizing and Application for Bin Drying/Cooling

Pages / Length:
Publication Date: 08/2016

Permanent link for this product: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/14568