Grain storage: Science and technology

Grain storage is one of the most critical processes in the agribusiness industry. According to Edson Marques da Silva, a mechanical engineer, mechanical and agricultural engineering is fundamental for designing and optimizing the equipment that make this entire flow efficient, safe, and of high quality. From the unloading at the silo to the transportation, drying, and storage in silos, each step is planned to ensure the quality of soybeans, corn, and wheat. Upon arrival, bucket elevators maintain the continuous flow of grains. In pre-cleaning, machines remove chaff, dust, and unwanted particles, ensuring uniform and clean grains. Controlled drying is essential: the moisture must be kept close to 13% to avoid losses and deterioration. Modern dryers, with precise temperature and airflow control, ensure this standardization. After drying, smart silos, equipped with thermal sensors, constantly monitor the conservation of grains until transportation or export. Edson highlights that ...