LABORATORY AND FIELD DATA FOR ESTABLISHING NEW GRAIN PACKING FACTORS

Obtain new field and laboratory data to refine and calibrate a science-based model for determining the packing of grains within upright storage structures. Laboratory data on bulk grain compression characteristics will be obtained for wheat, corn, soybeans, grain sorghum, oats, and barley. The effect of bin vibration on packing factor will also be investigated laboratory bins designed for that purpose. Field measurements of grain packing will be obtained from several states in the eastern U.S. in partnership with collaborators at ARS, Kansas State University, and the University of Georgia who will also make field measurements. Field data will be collected primarily for wheat, corn, and soybeans and also for grain sorghum, oats, and barley when those crops are available.