SEALING AND PRESSURE TESTING GRAIN STORAGE FOR OPTIMAL PEST RESISTANCE
With more grain being stored on-farm than ever before, it’s critical that grain storage equipment is up to the task when it comes to protecting stores from pests; and in particular those which may develop resistant to pesticides.
Using your pesticides as per the instructions on the label is a good start to extending the life of a pesticide in your stores, however there is much more you can do to ensure the high quality of your grain is maintained during storage.
Sealing your silos:
A sealed silo with easy access to a pressure relief valve is a must-have. We have developed the ‘Optimum Seal’ to ensure that the required concentration of pesticide is present for the duration of storage, reducing the risk of sub-lethal doses and the development of resistant pest populations in your stored grain.
Pest contaminated grain has the potential for an entire silo load to be damaged and downgraded; so the importance of investing in a sealed storage system is clear. A sealed silo will also allow for an even and accurate dosage of pesticide to occur; meaning you get consistency in quality throughout your stores.
Pressure testing the silo:
Once a silo is sealed gas-tight, it is important that it is regularly monitored during fumigation. At Optimum Silos we test all of our sealed silos in accordance with Australian Standard 2628; a common definition of a gas-tight, sealable silo which is suitable for fumigation.
When should I pressure test my silo?
Your silos should be pressure tested when first constructed, prior to every grain fumigation, and annually prior to harvest. The best time of the day to conduct a pressure test is when the sun is not heating the silo, which could cause it to expand and produce a false pressure reading. Optimal times to test might be within an hour of sunrise, or on a cooler, overcast day.
How do I conduct a pressure test?
Testing is based on a standard test developed by the CSIRO, and essentially pressurizes the silo to 1 inch water gauge. The silo should maintain up to 0.5 inch water gauge for 5 minutes when new, and 3 minutes when filled with grain.
What other checks should I do?
When pressure testing your grain stores, it is also important to check other areas of the silo where leaks may commonly occur. These may include:
● Damaged lids and where the lid ring joins the roof,
● Stretched springs on the latches,
● Aeration inlet seal,
● Bottom outlet.
If you would like further information or advice on silo sealing or pressure testing, get in touch with our team today.