Inside a Grain Elevator: Exploring the Process from Truckload to Loadout

:tractor:Grain is weighed, tested, and probed upon arrival at the elevator, and information is entered into a computer system.

:elevator:The grain flows from the receiving pit to the boot section and is carried up by buckets to the distributor floor.

:corn:The grain is moved to desired bins or belts on the gallery floor, controlled by a distributor wheel.

:temperature:Quality control involves monitoring temperature and moisture levels in the stored grain to prevent bug problems and maintain quality.

:truck:Grain that is sold is reversed in the handling process, moved from bins to trucks via the tunnel belt and leg distributor.

What happens when a farmer brings grain to the elevator?

—The grain is weighed, tested, and probed. It is then sent through the appropriate processing equipment based on its type and moisture levels.

How is the grain stored and maintained in the bins?

—Temperature and moisture levels are monitored using temperature cables. If there is a bug problem, fumigation is done. If there is a moisture problem, the grain is aerated.

What happens when the grain is sold?

—The grain is moved from storage bins to loadout bins via the tunnel belt and leg distributor. It is then loaded onto trucks for delivery.

How is grain quality maintained during storage?

—Quality control involves monitoring temperature and moisture levels. Cool air is circulated to maintain a temperature range where bugs are dormant.

What are the key components of a grain elevator?

—The key components include the receiving pit, boot section, distributor floor, gallery belt, tunnel belt, leg distributor, and loadout spouts.

00:00Introduction by Trevor Hands, Director of Communications for the Garden City Co-op.

00:47Gabe Bautista explains the process of weighing and testing grain upon arrival at the elevator.

01:29Inside the receiving pit, where the grain is unloaded from trucks.

02:05Overview of the boot section, where the grain flows from the pit and is carried by buckets.

02:33The distributor floor, where the grain is moved to desired bins or belts.

03:08Explanation of the tripper and the control of grain flow to different spouts.

04:08Moving down to the gallery floor and transferring grain to the west belt.

06:10Exploration of the tunnel beneath the elevator and the use of airflow to maintain grain quality.