Drying guidelines
Backgrounder
Because excessive heat can damage grains, maximum safe air temperatures must not be exceeded. Take the temperature of the hot air before it enters the dryer, because temperatures taken within layers of grain may be inaccurate.
The following chart is intended to be used as a guideline. For example, the maximum safe temperature for dryers that do not mix or circulate the grain may be lower than indicated.
SEEDING OR MALTING |
COMMERCIAL USE |
FEED |
|
WHEAT |
60°C |
65°C |
80-100°C |
BARLEY |
45°C |
55°C |
80-100°C |
CANOLA |
45°C |
65°C |
n/a |
CORN |
45°C |
60°C |
90-100°C |
SOYBEANS |
43°C |
49°C |
n/a |
PEAS |
45°C |
70°C |
80-100°C |
OATS |
50°C |
60°C |
80-100°C |
The maximum drying temperatures cited for each commodity are conditional on drying to not more than 1% below the moisture content standards for straight grade seeds (except canola), and on the removal of not more than 6% moisture in one pass through a high-speed dryer.
Detailed drying guidelines for these crops, as well as for other grains, oilseeds and pulses, are available on the Canadian Grain Commission’s website.