Continuous flow dryers still ‘system of choice’

• More than 1000 dryers installed

• Effective and dependable drying

• Return on investment stacks up

More growers are choosing continuous flow dryers as the cornerstone of new or upgraded grain handling systems.

Well over 1000 Svegma continuous flow dryers have been installed across the UK over the past 40 years, with many farmers choosing the brand as the cornerstone of new or upgraded grain drying and storage facilities.

Three farmers who had Svegma dryers installed by grain storage specialists McArthur BDC ahead of harvest 2024 said the system delivered effective and dependable drying –more than justifying the investment.

“Crucially, continuous flow grain driers can keep up with modern combine capacity delivering guaranteed drying and cooling independent of weather conditions with a quick turnaround,” says McArthur BDC managing director John McArthur.

Handling equipment

Lincolnshire grower Harry Strawson, who farms near Scunthorpe, needed to increase his drying capacity after deciding to build a new grain store which sits alongside two existing stores.

The upgraded plant includes an Aagaard pre-cleaner, the 40tph Svegma drier integrated with a moisture monitoring system, and Skandia handling equipment.

“My choice of a Svegma drier was based on its proven track record,” he says. “The build quality and durability were important because the drier is – like the majority of Svegmas – located outside the new store”.

Mr Strawson says one reason for working with McArthur BDC was the firm’s ability to design, supply and install new and upgraded grain plants. “Working with just one team simplifies any project,” he explains.

“Liaising closely with the team meant I was involved at every stage of the project. The team’s collaborative approach is important as we had to work with the building contractors to ensure everything ran on time and was ready for harvest.”

Intake capacity

Martin Bramley, of J Bramley & Son, farms near Leeds. He upgraded to a Svegma system to increase his grain intake capacity, enabling him to expand his contract grain drying and storage business.

“The proven reliability and capacity of the Svegma drier was a key factor in my decision to install one as part of our upgrade. It is imperative that there are no unnecessary hold ups for us, or our customers, during harvest.

The plant consists of a 30tph Svegma drier and Skandia Elevator AB 60tph I-Line handling equipment. Everything is controlled by a PLC based control panel with remote monitoring, says Mr Bramley.

“The Svegma enables us to dry grain as quickly as it comes off the combines and we keep the corn trailers moving. It is a huge plus to be able to work with one supplier that can handle the design, install and then ongoing servicing and maintenance.

Reliable and efficient

Andrew Reed, who farms further north in Berwick upon Tweed, chose a 38tph Svegma to sit between his new grain store and an existing store. It replaced an ageing dryer which was reaching the end of its life.

“We were beginning to experience reliability issues – which is the last thing you want to be worrying about when harvest gets going,” said Mr Reed. “It was clear I needed to increase my drying and storage capabilities.

“When it came to the choice of drier, I went for a Svegma. I was aware that due to its reliability and efficiency Svegma was held in high esteem, and it has a real following in Northumberland and the Scottish borders.”

Mr Reed also chose a Moisture Monitoring System to automatically and accurately monitor grain moisture content as the crop goes into store. The system also informs dryer setting decisions including the Svegma discharge rate.

‘Big-ticket item’

Mr McArthur acknowledges that continuous flow grain drying systems are a big-ticket item for any farm business. But he says the return on investment more than justifies the considerable outlay.

“The output of these driers continues to grow as does farm size and we are seeing an increase in the number of farm businesses that plan to offer drying and storage as a service, alongside serving their own needs.

“Careful consideration around individual drying and storage requirements must be given during the project development process, to ensure that the final system delivers the benefits and return on investment the farm business needs.”