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Smarter Grain Storage Can Improve Wheat Falling Number | Harveston Aeration Solutions

  • Andrew Fisher
  • Nov 5
  • 2 min read
OPI systems monitoring and control ecosystem

Recent research supported by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) shows that simple changes to on-farm grain storage can lead to measurable improvements in wheat quality — particularly the falling number, a key indicator of baking performance and market grade. Showing that smarter grain storage can improve wheat falling number.

Research highlights

A study by Agriculture Victoria found that wheat stored for six months at the right temperature and humidity could increase its falling number by up to 50 seconds.Wheat initially rated below 300 seconds improved to premium quality levels above 300 seconds, while milling and baking quality remained stable.

Researchers observed the best results when grain was stored at 25 °C – 30 °C and around 45 % relative humidity, with moisture content below 11 %.At higher temperatures or humidity, the risk of mould, sprouting, and loss of viability increased.

Turning research into practice

These findings confirm what many Australian growers have long suspected — that post-harvest management can directly affect grain value.With the right aeration and monitoring systems, it’s possible to maintain an ideal temperature and humidity profile, improving both quality and storability.

That’s where Harveston’s High-Flow aeration fans and OPI Systems’ temperature and moisture monitoring technology work together.

Harveston High-Flow Aeration Fans

  • Deliver powerful, even airflow through large silos and bunkers.

  • Allow fast cooling of hot grain immediately after harvest.

  • Allow for speed control to match the storage requirements and save energy.

  • Built for durability, and energy efficiency.

OPI Systems Monitoring and Control

  • Measures grain temperature, moisture and humidity in real time.

  • Provides early warnings of changes inside the silo.

  • Integrates with control systems to automatically start or stop fans.

  • Enables remote monitoring and data logging for traceability.

An integrated quality-management approach

By linking Harveston’s aeration fans with OPI’s monitoring and control systems, growers can create an intelligent storage environment that keeps grain in the sweet spot for quality retention and improvement. Automated aeration cycles respond to real-time conditions — helping to prevent sprouting, mould, or overheating — while promoting a gradual lift in falling number where grain quality allows.

This is more than pest management. It’s about active grain quality optimisation that can add $50 – $150 per tonne in potential returns.

Smarter storage. Better grain. Stronger returns.

Harveston is helping Australian grain growers combine advanced aeration and monitoring to protect and enhance the value of every tonne. To learn how to integrate OPI Systems monitoring with Harveston High-Flow aeration, contact our team or visit harveston.com.au.

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