ARS | Publication request: Packing Bunker and Pile Silos to Minimize Porosity

Submitted to: Electronic Publication
Publication Type: Other
Publication Acceptance Date: May 16, 2008
Publication Date: May 16, 2008
Repository URL: http://www.uwex.edu/ces/crops/uwforage/Porosity-FOF.pdf
Citation: Holmes, B.J., Muck, R.E. 2008. Packing Bunker and Pile Silos to Minimize Porosity. Focus on Forage. 10(1): 1-2. Available: www.uwex.edu/ces/crops/uwforage/Porosity-FOF.pdf

Technical Abstract: This article discusses the issue of porosity (i.e., the portion of volume filled with gas) in silages. As porosity increases, the silage is subject to greater losses. Porosity can be reduced by adequately packing the crop at ensiling. To keep porosity below 40% a minimum bulk density of 44 lbs./cu. ft. is needed.