How to install a mobile grain dryer

Drying is an essential part of the post-harvest process, as it helps preserve the quality of grain and extend its storage life. Proper installation and regular maintenance of grain dryers also contribute to improving both the efficiency and the service life of the equipment.

Investing in a grain dryer means being able to rely on a solution that can improve the quality and profitability of your operation, giving you the freedom to avoid selling your grain immediately after harvest, potentially at a price that does not meet your expectations.

In this guide, we take a closer look at some of the main aspects involved in installing a grain dryer, focusing on the most frequently asked questions on the subject.

Is it difficult to install a Mecmar grain dryer?

At Mecmar, we understand the daily challenges faced by our customers, including farmers, storage centres and agribusinesses. With these needs in mind, we have designed our dryers not only to be easy to operate and maintain, but also to minimise installation costs and downtime.

Our focus is on simplicity and efficiency, ensuring that our machines can always be assembled quickly and easily on site. This approach not only reduces initial installation costs, but also enables our customers to have their equipment up and running in time for harvest, without unnecessary delays.

One of the key features that sets Mecmar mobile grain dryers apart is their high degree of pre-assembly and the reliability checks carried out before delivery. As an ISO 9001-certified company, we perform several inspections throughout the production process, involving all departments, from administration and engineering to production and logistics. This helps ensure a high level of reliability.

Before delivery, Mecmar mobile grain dryers are shipped up to 95% pre-assembled, depending on the model and configuration.

As a result, the dryers can be operational within 24 hours of delivery, allowing customers to begin drying their grain quickly while minimising assembly costs and the need to involve multiple subcontractors during installation, with the resulting reduction in both costs and on-site safety risks.

Mecmar grain dryers are essentially turnkey systems, designed and manufactured to be ready for use as soon as installation is complete.

What is needed to install a Mecmar grain dryer?

Typically, installation requires 2 to 4 mechanics for assembly and 1 electrician for commissioning, which usually takes place within 48-96 hours of delivery.

In addition, the following are required:

• personal protective equipment;
• mechanical tools;
• an aerial work platform for working at height;
• a crane or forklift with the load capacity and dimensions recommended for the specific model.

During the final installation stage, it is also necessary to have fuel, an electrical power supply (or a tractor) and grain available to load into the machine. 

How long does it take to install a Mecmar grain dryer?

One of the major advantages of mobile grain dryers is undoubtedly their significantly shorter installation time compared with fixed drying plants.

The main factors to consider when delivering a grain dryer include:

• the final destination country (within Europe or outside Europe, by land or overseas);
• the mode of transport (standard truck, low-loader, container, etc.);
• the size of the dryer. More compact models can be transported almost fully assembled, while larger models need to be dismantled to varying degrees depending on the space available during transport.

The NANO model has been specifically designed to remain within standard transport dimensions and is shipped 95% pre-assembled. Once unloaded from the truck, and with the appropriate equipment available, it can be set up in less than 4 working hours.

The compact CPT model is shipped 90% pre-assembled, as are models in the STR series. The FSN and D series can be shipped either assembled or disassembled, depending on the transport dimensions available and whether delivery takes place by road or container.

In many cases, customers aim to optimise transportation costs by loading up to two direct-fired machines onto a single truck or container.

The SSI, E, S and F models, on the other hand, are delivered dismantled and therefore require more time for installation, ranging from 3 to 8 days for the F model from the date of delivery.

In all cases, installation times – ranging from approximately 1 to 8 days – remain significantly shorter than the several weeks typically required for a fixed grain dryer.

Post-installation maintenance

Proper maintenance is just as important as correct installation when it comes to ensuring consistent performance over time. Here is a basic checklist.

Routine maintenance, before and after each season:

• Clean the inside of the drum and cone, as well as the combustion chamber, removing dust and grain residues.
• Check the correct tension of belts and chains and inspect mechanical components subject to wear, such as bearings and gearboxes.
• Check that temperature and moisture sensors are operating correctly.
• Visually inspect welds, structural components and anchoring points.

Periodic maintenance:

• Check and lubricate moving parts according to the maintenance schedule specified in the operating manual.
• Inspect the electrical system and control panels.
• Periodically calibrate the temperature control systems.

Before the start of the drying season:

• Carry out a complete start-up test and run the dryer empty.
• Check fuel supplies and safety equipment.
• Make sure that critical spare parts are available.

Regular maintenance not only helps prevent breakdowns during periods of peak use, but also significantly extends the service life of the machine, helping it remain efficient even after 30-40 years of operation.

Grain drying after installation: what does the process involve?

Grain drying involves reducing the moisture content of freshly harvested grain to a safe level in order to prevent spoilage and deterioration.

The process typically consists of several stages:

• Harvesting. Grain is harvested with a moisture content that varies depending on weather and environmental conditions, which are becoming increasingly unpredictable, particularly due to the instability caused by climate change.
• Loading the grain into the dryer. The grain is loaded into either batch or continuous-flow dryers.
• Drying. Hot air is circulated through the grain to remove excess moisture. In Mecmar mobile grain dryers, the grain also undergoes a cleaning process during drying.
• Cooling. Once drying is complete, the grain is cooled to ambient temperature to stop the drying process and stabilise the moisture level reached, preparing the grain for safe storage.
• Unloading. The dried grain is unloaded from the dryer and, where necessary, cleaned before being stored in suitable facilities or loaded directly onto trucks or trailers for transport.

Each of these stages plays an essential role in maximising the storage life of freshly dried grain. Correct installation of the drying system ensures that every stage can be carried out efficiently and effectively.

Mecmar: tradition and excellence in grain drying

With more than 60 years of experience manufacturing grain dryers for customers around the world, Mecmar has gathered valuable feedback that has helped make grain dryer installation easier and more straightforward under a wide range of operating conditions, from hot to cold climates.

At Mecmar, we work every day to expand our range and increase the customisation options available for our dryers.

Today, our mobile grain dryers offer excellent manoeuvrability and ease of installation. These units are designed to provide high performance and maximum mobility, allowing farmers to dry grain directly in the field or in different areas of the farm.

Mecmar tower dryers, on the other hand, are ideal for large farms and storage centres, providing continuous drying and high processing capacity.

All Mecmar grain dryers are designed to maximise airflow and heat distribution inside the machine, ensuring uniform crop treatment and outstanding energy efficiency.

FAQ

How much does it cost to install a Mecmar grain dryer?

The cost depends on the model, capacity and level of pre-assembly selected. Request a customised quote from our team to receive an accurate estimate based on your company’s specific requirements.

Can I install a Mecmar grain dryer myself?

It is strongly recommended to rely on qualified mechanics and electricians to ensure safety, correct operation and warranty validity.

What is the difference between mobile and tower grain dryers in terms of installation?

Mobile grain dryers offer much faster installation times and greater flexibility in terms of positioning, while tower dryers require a more structured installation process but provide continuous drying capacity for large volumes of grain.

How often should a grain dryer be serviced?

Routine maintenance is recommended before and after each drying season, together with periodic checks throughout the year, as described in the dedicated section above.