In-Bin or Portable: Finding the Right Grain Drying System for Your Operation
By: Roger Slaughter, Grain Handling Equipment Sales
Some customers come in knowing exactly what they want in a grain drying system. It might be they have an allegiance to a brand or have been down this road before. However, comparing the three brands of grain dryers we carry – Shivvers, GSI and Sukup – would be like trying to compare a Ford and a Chevrolet to a Winnebago RV. Instead, let’s look at the pros and cons of the two different grain drying systems and things to consider when it comes to determining your grain dryer needs.
SHIVVERS GRAIN DRYING SYSTEM
Shivvers Continuous Counter-Flow Grain Drying System is an in-bin drying option that forces heated air through a perforated drying floor. As the air moves upward, the layer of grain on the floor dries and the grain above is warmed. Using two or three tapered sweep augers developed by Shivvers founder, Charles Shivvers, corn is moved towards the center vertical or discharge auger. Moisture sensors test the corn up to 120 times per minute. If the grain has reached the desired moisture, it is moved out into storage bins. If not, the sample is spread back on top of the drying bin.
Advantages
» Continuous flow
» Drying bin is the wet bin
» High level of efficiency
Disadvantages
» Capacity limitations
» In case of service/maintenance, bin must be cleaned out
PORTABLE GRAIN DRYING SYSTEMS
On the other hand, GSI and Sukup portable dryers force heated air through a center plenum area with perforated walls. As the grain flows downward around the plenum, it is dried. It reaches
an auger at the bottom of the dryer where it is transported out. Comparing the two brands, GSI and Sukup product lines feature similar options and both have high accuracy moisture readings.
Advantages
» Can handle a higher moisture input
» Maintenance doesn’t require cleaning out a full bin
Disadvantages
» Wet grain bin needed
» Transfer system(s) is needed to get grain to and from dryer
Regardless of the brand or type of grain drying system, your operation should dictate your grain drying needs. As you evaluate systems and brands, two factors to keep in mind are capacity and efficiency. The Shivvers grain drying system can handle as little as 4,700 bushels in a 24’ diameter bin and upwards of 26,000 bushels in a 48’ diameter bin (per day, 7% removed, 22%-15%). When looking at portable dryers, you’ll find estimated drying capacities in the smallest units turning out over 300 bushels per hour at full heat and 15-20% moisture starting with a single fan. A good rule of thumb is for operations with drying needs over 75,000 bushels, a portable dryer may be more economical and efficient.
Grain drying systems, much like that Ford, Chevy or Winnebago, can last for years if well cared for. However, even with proper maintenance, technology and model updates make it harder to find parts for older dryers, specifically with the control systems. Upgrading a Shivvers control system is usually a pretty easy task whereas the ability to retrofit a portable unit comes down to the brand. While labor-intensive, a Sukup dryer’s control system can be upgraded to newer technology. GSI, on the other hand, does not have that option and requires replacing the whole system. Technology and other factors aside, like how many bushels have been run through it, a dryer could last for 25 years or more.
If it’s time for a new grain drying system or you need to make updates to your current setup, now is a good time to let our team know, from both the early order discount perspective and for availability with the current supply chain disruptions. We have bin and dryer parts available for purchase on our website.