Vision N2 Controller Models: PORTABLE DRYERS User Guide PNEG-1851 Version 1.
All information, illustrations, photos, and specifications in this manual are based on the latest information available at the time of publication. The right is reserved to make changes at any time without notice.
Table of Contents Contents About This Guide.........................................................................................................................v Chapter 1 Safety Precautions ....................................................................................................................7 Safety Guidelines for Portable Dryers............................................................................................7 Cautionary Symbols ...............................................
Table of Contents Setting the Dual-Setpoint Temperature Scheme in Staged Batch ...................................................68 Chapter 9 The Dry Grain ..........................................................................................................................71 Validating Outgoing Moisture And Temperature Readings .............................................................71 Cleaning the Dry Sensor .......................................................................................
About This Guide This guide contains information on operating portable dryers that are equipped with the Vision N2 Network Dryer Control. It is intended for operators and service technicians, and can be used by both novice and experienced users of GSI’s portable dryers. How This Guide Works The Vision N2 User Guide contains procedures, examples, references, and conceptual information.
Vision N2 Controller Notes and Notices The following notes and notices are used throughout this guide: NOTE: Used to denote supplemental information that is directly related to the text that immediately precedes or follows it. Tip Used to provide advice on a particular subject. Used to describe a real-life scenario that applies to the information that precedes it.
1 Safety Precautions Topics Covered in this Chapter ▪ Safety Guidelines for Portable Dryers ▪ Cautionary Symbols ▪ Safety Decals for Portable Dryers Safety Guidelines for Portable Dryers Safety guidelines are general-to-specific rules that promote safe practices in the grain drying environment and which must be respected at all times. Save these safety guidelines for future reference.
Chapter 1: Safety Precautions • To enable pre-season mode, click System→Control (Advanced)→Board Mode and then select Pre-season Mode. • Place the dryer in normal mode once inspections have been completed and you are ready to dry grain. IMPORTANT: If you power off the dryer while in pre-season mode, normal mode is automatically enabled the next time you power on the dryer. Make sure to reselect pre-season mode if further tests are required. Cleanliness • Keep the grain dryer clean at all times.
Chapter 1: Safety Precautions Cautionary Symbols Cautionary symbols are present in the various decals of your equipment and alert you to the possible or imminent risk of danger. DANGER Make sure to familiarize yourself with the cautionary symbols prior to installing, operating, or servicing your equipment. Failure to do so might lead to serious injury or death.
Chapter 1: Safety Precautions Safety Decals for Portable Dryers The safety decals on your grain dryer are safety indicators which must be carefully read and understood by all personnel involved in the installation, operation, service, and maintenance of the grain dryer. Table 1-2 Description of the grain dryer’s decals Decal Decal No.
Chapter 1: Safety Precautions Table 1-2 Description of the grain dryer’s decals (cont'd.) Decal Decal No.
Chapter 1: Safety Precautions Table 1-2 Description of the grain dryer’s decals (cont'd.) Decal Decal No. Location This decal appears on the hitch tongue DC-1956 This decal appears on the hitch tongue DC-1954 Replacing Decals All decals located on your grain dryer must remain legible and clearly visible at all times. To replace a damaged or missing decal, contact us to receive a free replacement. GSI Decals 1004 E. Illinois St. Assumption, IL.
2 The Portable Dryer Topics Covered in this Chapter ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ Overview of the Portable Dryer Dryer Configurations The Control Panel Overview of the User Interface Entering Parameter Values with the Keypad Overview of the Portable Dryer Portable dryers are modular grain dryers that can operate in batch and continuous flow, and where wet grain is dried in a drying column that is separate from the wet grain and dried grain storage bins. GSI portable dryers are available in multiple module configurations.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Table 2-1 The main components of the portable dryer Item 14 Name Description a Dryer wet bin The compartment that maintains an adequate level of wet grain to ensure proper air seal; contains the load auger, wet sensor, and load auger fill switch b Load auger The auger that distributes grain inside the dryer wet bin c Main control box The electrical cabinet that serves as the dryer’s power distribution panel d Fan and heater A one-piece unit that blows hot air ins
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer DANGER Make sure to turn off the main electrical disconnect switch prior to servicing your dryer. Only the main electrical disconnect switch turns off power to the dryer and all electrical cabinets. Failure to do so might lead to serious injury or death. Pressing the Emergency Stop button stops dryer functions but does not turn off the power that is present at the various electrical cabinets.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Table 2-2 The available configurations for portable dryers (cont'd.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Figure 2-2 The Vision N2 control panel NOTE: The number of fan and heater switches on your control panel depends on the number of fans and heaters that your dryer is equipped with.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Table 2-3 The components of the control panel (cont'd.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Table 2-3 The components of the control panel (cont'd.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Figure 2-3 The main menu Status bar a 0 0 9 9 Continuous F Bushel Count Animation view pane c b lo w , Dr ye r S t o p p e d d Moi s t u r e Ou t p u t : 1 7 .2 % e t s Load 01:59 03:27 r Load ing 22. 0% 79°F 95°F Out of Grain Dry f Grain Column Menu pane q 210 Cool 00:00 p 1 Cooling o Burner Ready 17.0% 109° F 17.0% 2000 bph Unloa d 00:00 00:00 / 200° F Unload ing Cle anout g Settings pane h 17.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Table 2-4 Description of the main menu’s buttons and displays Menu Area Status bar Settings pane Taskbar Name Description a Dry grain and staged batch counter In continuous flow, displays the total grain output; in staged batch, displays the total batch count b Drying mode display Displays the selected drying mode and its associated output counter c Dryer status display Displays the dryer’s current status d Outgoing moisture or grain column temperature display
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Table 2-4 Description of the main menu’s buttons and displays (cont'd.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer The Submenu Window Via the various submenus, you can access and set all parameters that are required in the daily operation of your dryer. The figure that follows illustrates a typical submenu. Figure 2-4 The Out of Grain Timer submenu How the Submenu Window Works When working in submenu windows, remember the following: • You can only access and modify parameter settings through their respective parameter fields.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Figure 2-5 Samples of the various parameter fields NOTE: Images of the dryer, control panel, and user interface menus that are included in this guide are for illustrative purposes only and might not entirely resemble the actual product. What You Should Know When entering parameter values, remember the following: • Except for the parameter shortcuts in the main menu’s system pane, the keypad is only accessible through the Edit icon.
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer Figure 2-6 The numeric keypad for the out of grain timer Table 2-5 Description of the keypad Name Description a Value display Shows the parameter’s current value once the keypad is displayed and the new value once it is entered b Numeric keys (0 to 9) Allows you to enter parameter values; entries start from the far right of the decimal separator and move left c Default key Enters the parameter’s default value d Save key Allows you to store the newly entered value
Chapter 2: The Portable Dryer The keypad is displayed and the submenu window is no longer active. The parameter’s current value is shown in the keypad’s value display. 2. Using the numeric keys, enter a new value that is within its allowable range. To enter the parameter’s default value, click Default. To enter 10 minutes and 5 seconds for the out of grain timer parameter, click 1, 0, 0, 5. The value is displayed in the keypad’s value display.
3 Getting Started Topics Covered in this Chapter ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ Powering On the Dryer Configuring User Preferences Configuring Your Dryer’s Hardware Setting the Dryer’s Timers and Delays Drying Grain in the Initial Run Unloading Grain in the Initial Run Powering On the Dryer After it has been thoroughly inspected, you can turn on your dryer to perform a touchscreen calibration, set all of the required parameters, and begin drying grain.
Chapter 3: Getting Started NOTE: The Configuration Status dialog box is displayed in certain situations, most notably upon startup and after clearing shutdown messages. It remains active for a few seconds before closing automatically. 4. Once the software is ready, click the Start Software button. If the touchscreen is calibrated, the software starts immediately and the main menu is displayed. If not calibrated, the Touchscreen Calibration window automatically opens.
Chapter 3: Getting Started 4. From the submenu pane, click Time and Date. 5. Set the following parameters: Time — The current time (hour; minute; a.m./p.m.). Date — The current date (month; day; year). IMPORTANT: Setting the correct time and date is important because the system’s clock is used by other processes, such as your dryer’s shutdown history. As a result, incorrect time and date settings lead to inaccurate system logs.
Chapter 3: Getting Started IMPORTANT: Make sure to enter the number of modules that corresponds to your actual dryer configuration. If you enter a value that is greater or less than the actual number, the dryer will not start because the system will search for missing or undeclared fans or heaters. Number of Fans and Heaters — The total number of fans and heaters that are present on your portable dryer (1, 2, 3, 4, or 6).
Chapter 3: Getting Started Tip Unless otherwise advised, it is recommended to start drying grain using the default settings for the timers and delays. If necessary, adjust these values only after having carefully monitored all phases of the drying cycle. To set the timers and delays: 1. Whether in continuous flow or staged batch, click System→Cool (Advanced)→Fan Delay from the taskbar, and set the following parameter: Fan Delay — The delay between each fan activation.
Chapter 3: Getting Started Unload Timer — The length of time that the unload auger runs to unload the grain. This timer is only available in staged batch mode. 8. To set the load delay, see Minimizing Load Auger Startups, page 55; for the out of grain timer, see Ensuring Dryer Shutdowns When Supply Is Out of Grain, page 54. NOTE: The Remaining field displays a countdown of the set delay or timer. Click it to interrupt the countdown and enter a new value.
Chapter 3: Getting Started 5. Turn all Fan switches to On. The fans start and the switches are illuminated once air pressure is detected. Tip It is recommended to start fans one at a time, and to let each fan attain their respective speed before starting the next one. 6. Turn all Heater switches to On, and confirm that all plenum setpoints are set (see Setting the Plenum Temperature Range, page 35). After a 15-second purge for safety reasons, the burners ignite and the switches are illuminated. 7.
Chapter 3: Getting Started Adjusted Speed — The speed that the metering rolls turn at when the Unload Auger switch is in the On position. Enter the speed value that corresponds to your dryer’s configuration and your chosen drying operation (full-heat or dry and cool). See Setting the Value Range for the Unload Speed, page 73 for information on the minimum and maximum limits for the unload speed. Incremental Adjustment — The incremental adjustment of the metering roll speed in manual mode.
4 Basic Operations Topics Covered in this Chapter ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ Setting the Plenum Temperature Range Resetting the Dry Grain Counters Shutting Off the Dryer at the End of the Day Shutting Off the Dryer at the End of the Drying Season Monitoring Grain and Dryer Data in Real Time Downloading Dryer Data to a USB Flash Drive Setting the Plenum Temperature Range The plenum setpoint and burner differential settings establish the temperature range inside the plenum.
Chapter 4: Basic Operations Resetting the Dry Grain Counters The dry grain and staged batch counters keep track of unloaded grain. You can reset these counters at any time, allowing you to keep count of grain unloaded for a particular harvest or work period. IMPORTANT: Resetting a counter permanently erases its total count and it cannot be retrieved. To reset the dry grain counters: 1. From the menu pane, click System→Unload (Advanced)→Dry Grain Counter. 2.
Chapter 4: Basic Operations 3. Once the dryer has cooled off, close the dryer’s fuel valve. 4. On the control panel, press Stop . All dryer functions stop. Shutting Off the Dryer at the End of the Drying Season You can shut off the dryer at the end of the drying season to ensure that your equipment can safely remain inactive until the start of the next drying season. Before You Begin Make sure that there is no grain in the dryer and in the wet grain storage bin.
Chapter 4: Basic Operations Make sure to thoroughly inspect and clean the dryer’s various components such as the metering rolls, augers, and motors. You can follow your established procedures or contact the GSI Group, LLC for specific instructions.
Chapter 4: Basic Operations • Make sure to set the interval and sampling rate settings through either the Dryer Data: Table View or Dryer Data: Graph View windows (see Monitoring Grain and Dryer Data in Real Time, page 38). • Make sure that the dryer is powered on. • Make sure that the USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash drive is formatted to FAT32 (32-bit File Allocation Table). To download dryer data to a USB flash drive: 1. Open the control panel door and locate the single-board computer (SBC) board.
NOTES 40 PNEG-1851 Vision N2
5 The Drying Modes Topics Covered in this Chapter ▪ Continuous Flow Mode ▪ Staged Batch Mode ▪ Selecting a Drying Mode Continuous Flow Mode The continuous flow mode is a grain drying method where grain enters and exits the dryer in one continuous, uninterrupted cycle. Consequently, the metering rolls turn constantly, at a speed defined by the control parameters. As with any drying mode, the main objective is to obtain the appropriate outgoing moisture content for the type of grain that you are drying.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes Figure 5-1 Breakdown of the control parameters and schemes in the continuous flow mode Continuous Flow Based on Grain Temperature Temperature-based control schemes in continuous flow use the grain temperature as their reference parameter. As the grain temperature rises or drops, the unload speed automatically adjusts according to the selected control scheme. How It Works Grain temperature is directly proportional to grain moisture.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes Figure 5-2 Speed versus temperature relationship for the 1-speed temperature control scheme The 2-Speed Control Scheme In the 2-speed control scheme, you enter the following parameters: • The low metering roll speed • The high metering roll speed • The grain temperature setpoint As shown in the figure that follows, the metering rolls turn at the high speed setting if the grain temperature is 1°F (0.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes Figure 5-3 Speed versus temperature relationship for the 2-speed temperature control scheme The 5-Speed Control Scheme In the 5-speed control scheme, you enter the following parameters: • The reference speed • The grain temperature setpoint • The metering roll speed’s inner offset • The metering roll speed’s outer offset • The grain temperature’s inner offset • The grain temperature’s outer offset As shown in the following figure, the 5-speed temperature control scheme uses five
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes Figure 5-4 Speed versus temperature relationship for the 5-speed temperature control scheme Continuous Flow Based on Grain Moisture Moisture-based control schemes in continuous flow use grain moisture as their reference parameter.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes • The metering roll speed’s outer offset • The grain moisture’s inner offset • The grain moisture’s outer offset As shown in the following figure, the 5-speed moisture control scheme uses five speed settings to obtain the target moisture content, and the speed that is selected is dependant on the measured grain moisture. If the grain’s moisture content exceeds the measured moisture, lower speeds are automatically selected.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes Control Parameters In staged batch, the dryer monitors the following two control parameters: • Grain temperature • Drying time Control Schemes Control schemes are preset drying strategies designed to aid the user in achieving the desired outgoing moisture content. Each control parameter has specific control schemes to choose from. The figure that follows shows the control schemes that are available for each control parameter.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes • The drying time • The temperature setpoint of each plenum As shown in the figure that follows, the drying phase starts when the load auger fill switch is activated and stops when the drying time elapses. A cooling phase immediately follows, and the dry and cool grain is then discharged from the dryer during the unloading phase. Figure 5-7 Time control scheme in the dry and cool operation NOTE: In full-heat operation, the cooling phase is simply bypassed.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes Figure 5-8 Dual-setpoint time control scheme in the dry and cool operation NOTE: In full-heat operation, the cooling phase is simply bypassed. As a result, the unloading phase starts immediately following the drying phase, allowing uncooled, hot grain to be discharged from the dryer. Staged Batch Based on Grain Temperature Temperature-based control schemes in staged batch use grain temperature sensors as their reference parameter.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes Figure 5-9 Temperature control scheme in the dry and cool operation NOTE: In full-heat operation, the cooling phase is simply bypassed. As a result, the unloading phase starts immediately following the drying phase, allowing uncooled, hot grain to be discharged from the dryer.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes Figure 5-10 Dual-setpoint temperature control scheme in the dry and cool operation NOTE: In full-heat operation, the cooling phase is simply bypassed. As a result, the unloading phase starts immediately following the drying phase, allowing uncooled, hot grain to be discharged from the dryer.
Chapter 5: The Drying Modes Figure 5-11 Time and temperature control scheme in the dry and cool operation NOTE: In full-heat operation, the cooling phase is simply bypassed. As a result, the unloading phase starts immediately following the drying phase, allowing uncooled, hot grain to be discharged from the dryer. Selecting a Drying Mode Before drying grain, you can select a drying mode to determine how wet grain passes through the dryer and exits as dry grain. To select a drying mode: 1.
6 The Wet Grain Topics Covered in this Chapter ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ The Loading Process Ensuring Dryer Shutdowns When Supply Is Out of Grain Minimizing Load Auger Startups Validating Incoming Moisture and Temperature Readings The Loading Process Loading is the process by which the auxiliary loading equipment supplies wet grain to the dryer wet bin, and the load auger distributes the grain into the grain columns.
Chapter 6: The Wet Grain Figure 6-1 The loading sequence in auto mode Ensuring Dryer Shutdowns When Supply Is Out of Grain To have the dryer stop when the wet grain storage bin empties, you can increase the out of grain timer if it elapses before the dryer is full, or decrease it if the load auger keeps turning long after the wet grain supply has been depleted. Before You Begin Make sure that the Load Auger switch on the control panel is in the Auto position.
Chapter 6: The Wet Grain Out of Grain Timer — The timer that starts once the load auger begins to turn and stops when the dryer wet bin is full. If it elapses, a shutdown message alerts you that the wet grain storage bin supplying the dryer is empty. The Load Auger switch must be in the Auto position for the out of grain timer to work. NOTE: The Remaining field displays a countdown of the set delay or timer. Click it to interrupt the countdown and enter a new value.
Chapter 6: The Wet Grain Tip Start with the default setting and adjust according to how fast the loading mechanism fills your dryer wet bin. As the dryer unloads dry grain, an appropriately set load delay ends before the level of wet grain drops below the top of the plenum chamber.
7 The Continuous Flow Drying Process Topics Covered in this Chapter ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ Drying Grain in Continuous Flow Setting the 1-Speed Temperature Scheme in Continuous Flow Setting the 2-Speed Temperature Scheme in Continuous Flow Setting the 5-Speed Temperature Scheme in Continuous Flow Setting the 5-Speed Moisture Scheme in Continuous Flow Drying Grain in Continuous Flow To dry grain in continuous flow, you can choose a control scheme that uses either the grain’s temperature or its moisture content to dete
Chapter 7: The Continuous Flow Drying Process IMPORTANT: To stop the dryer when connected remotely, click Stop Dryer from the main menu. However, once stopped, you cannot restart it remotely. The dryer can only be restarted on-site. 2. From the menu pane, click Control→Moisture Control Mode. 3. Select Continuous Flow. 4. Select one of the following control schemes: 1-Speed Temperature — The control scheme that allows you to set one metering roll speed and the grain temperature setpoint.
Chapter 7: The Continuous Flow Drying Process To set the 1-speed temperature scheme in continuous flow: 1. If the dryer is running, press Stop on the control panel. IMPORTANT: To stop the dryer when connected remotely, click Stop Dryer from the main menu. However, once stopped, you cannot restart it remotely. The dryer can only be restarted on-site. 2. From the menu pane, click Control→Moisture Control Settings. 3.
Chapter 7: The Continuous Flow Drying Process NOTE: The units of measure selection (bushels or metric tons per hour) that is displayed in this field is dependent on the chosen system of measurement (System→Preferences→Units of Measure). Grain setpoint — The grain’s target temperature value. This setpoint is the reference parameter that is used to determine your dryer’s unload rate. High Speed — The high setpoint for the metering roll speed. If the grain temperature rises 1°F (0.
Chapter 7: The Continuous Flow Drying Process Inner Temperature Offset — The small temperature offset, used to obtain the pair of temperature values that are closest to the reference temperature. One value is equal to reference temperature minus this offset, whereas the other is equal to the reference temperature plus this offset. Outer Temperature Offset — The large temperature offset, used to obtain the pair of temperature values that are furthest from the reference temperature.
Chapter 7: The Continuous Flow Drying Process IMPORTANT: To stop the dryer when connected remotely, click Stop Dryer from the main menu. However, once stopped, you cannot restart it remotely. The dryer can only be restarted on-site. 2. From the menu pane, click Control→Moisture Control Settings. 3. Set the following parameters: Unload Speeds Entered in — The units of measure (bushels or metric tons per hour, or metering roll speed %) that the unload speed values are entered in.
8 The Staged Batch Drying Process Topics Covered in this Chapter ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ Drying Grain in Staged Batch Setting the Time Scheme in Staged Batch Setting the Temperature Scheme in Staged Batch Setting the Time and Temperature Scheme in Staged Batch Setting the Dual-Setpoint Time Scheme in Staged Batch Setting the Dual-Setpoint Temperature Scheme in Staged Batch Drying Grain in Staged Batch To dry grain in batches, you can choose a control scheme that notifies you when grain is ready to move to the cooli
Chapter 8: The Staged Batch Drying Process 5. Set the drying parameters for your chosen control scheme: • To set parameters for the time scheme, see Setting the Time Scheme in Staged Batch, page 64. To set parameters for the temperature scheme, see Setting the Temperature Scheme in Staged Batch, page 65. • To set parameters for the time and temperature scheme, see Setting the Time and Temperature Scheme in Staged Batch, page 66.
Chapter 8: The Staged Batch Drying Process • Drying time of 35 minutes • Cooling timer of 18 minutes • Unload timer of 10 minutes • Plenum setpoints of 180°F (for ease of explanation, let’s assume that all plenums use the same setpoint) The drying phase starts when the load auger fill switch is activated. During this phase, all fans and heaters are on so that the plenums can reach a temperature of 180°F. The heaters stop after 35 minutes of operation.
Chapter 8: The Staged Batch Drying Process • Unload timer of 10 minutes • Plenum setpoints of 180°F (for ease of explanation, this example assumes that all plenums use the same setpoint) The drying phase starts when the load auger fill switch is activated. During that phase, all fans and heaters are on so that the plenums can reach a temperature of 180°F. The heaters stop once the grain temperature reaches 90°F.
Chapter 8: The Staged Batch Drying Process • Cooling timer of 18 minutes • Unload timer of 10 minutes • Plenum setpoints of 180°F (for ease of explanation, this example assumes that all plenums use the same setpoint) The drying phase starts when the load auger fill switch is activated. During this phase, all fans and heaters are on so that the plenums can reach a temperature of 180°F. The heaters stop running when the grain temperature reaches 90°F and 35 minutes have elapsed.
Chapter 8: The Staged Batch Drying Process • Drying time 1 of 25 minutes • Drying time 2 of 12 minutes • Cooling timer of 18 minutes • Unload timer of 10 minutes • Plenum setpoints 1 of 220°F (for ease of explanation, this example assumes that all plenums use the same setpoint) • Plenum setpoints 2 of 170°F (for ease of explanation, this example assumes that all plenums use the same setpoint) The drying phase starts when the load auger fill switch is activated.
Chapter 8: The Staged Batch Drying Process Grain Setpoint 1 — The grain temperature that must be reached to make the plenums use the second group of temperature setpoints. Grain Setpoint 2 — The grain temperature that must be reached to end the drying phase.
NOTES 70 PNEG-1851 Vision N2
9 The Dry Grain Topics Covered in this Chapter ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ Validating Outgoing Moisture And Temperature Readings Cleaning the Dry Sensor Setting the Value Range for the Unload Speed Adjusting Unload Speeds in Real Time Ensuring Accurate Unload Speed Rates Validating Outgoing Moisture And Temperature Readings Using a reliable grain testing device, you can validate the outgoing moisture and temperature at regular intervals to ensure that onscreen dry sensor readings are accurate.
Chapter 9: The Dry Grain Outgoing Grain Moisture — The dry grain’s actual moisture level (%). Outgoing Grain Temperature — The dry grain’s actual temperature (°F; °C) Once measured, the actual average moisture of the dry grain is 15%, yet the value displayed onscreen is 17%. Enter 15 to maintain consistency between readings. IMPORTANT: During the unloading phase, make sure to validate the dry grain’s moisture and temperature at least twice a day and make the necessary adjustments.
Chapter 9: The Dry Grain 5. Clean the inside of the housing thoroughly. 6. Position the dry sensor back into place and secure the sensor cover. Setting the Value Range for the Unload Speed Defining an allowable value range ensures that the unload speed is always set within a minimum and maximum limits. Once set, you can modify this range if the established values are either insufficient or excessive. To set the value range for the unload speed: 1.
Chapter 9: The Dry Grain To adjust unload speeds in real time: 1. From the menu pane, click Unload→Unload Speeds. 2. Set the following parameter: Unload Speeds Entered in — The units of measure (bushels or metric tons per hour, or metering roll speed %) that the unload speed value is entered in. 3. Adjust the unload speed according to the following conditions: a.
Chapter 9: The Dry Grain What You Should Know Over the course of numerous drying cycles and batches of grain, the unload speed automatically changes to adapt to the moisture and temperature variations of the grain. Although validating the moisture content of both the wet and dry grain is essential, you can also validate the grain’s actual flow rate to help optimize unload speeds and minimize inefficient fluctuations. Tip It is recommended to validate the unload speed after replacing the main I/O board.
NOTES 76 PNEG-1851 Vision N2
A Grain Drying Operations Topics Covered in this Appendix ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ Drying Grain: A Quick Startup Procedure Initial Settings for Full-Heat and Dry and Cool The Burner Modes Grain Drying: Full-Heat or Dry and Cool Drying Grain: A Quick Startup Procedure Once you are familiar with your dryer and the grain handling equipment, you can follow a quick-step approach to quickly transition from powering on your dryer to drying grain in auto mode.
Appendix A: Grain Drying Operations 11.Increase the plenum temperature to your normal operating temperature. 12.Continue unloading in manual mode for a minimum of five to seven minutes for each point of moisture you need to remove. 13.Turn the Unload Auger switch to Auto. Initial Settings for Full-Heat and Dry and Cool Once the wet grain’s moisture content has been measured during the initial run, you can set the drying time and unload speed according to the drying operation’s respective table below.
Appendix A: Grain Drying Operations Table A-2 Initial settings for the dry and cool operation Unload speed in manual mode Initial moisture Drying time (min.
Appendix A: Grain Drying Operations Table A-3 Description of the burner modes Mode Description High/low Starting on high fire, when the plenum temperature exceeds the plenum temperature setpoint plus the burner differential setting, the burner switches to low fire. Similarly, when the plenum temperature drops below the plenum temperature setpoint minus the burner differential setting, the burner switches back to high fire. High/low mode is the default setting.
Appendix A: Grain Drying Operations To decide which drying operation is better suited to your needs, a good grasp of the benefits and shortcomings of each operation is required (see the following table). Furthermore, considering that the main difference between the two is in the physical location of where the grain cooling process takes place, a general understanding of this important step in the grain drying process is also recommended (see A Glance at Cooling Processes, page 82).
Appendix A: Grain Drying Operations A Glance at Cooling Processes Cooling grain in dedicated cooling bins is a viable and cost-effective solution for most grain farmers, and one that provides the most benefits in terms of grain quality. The most common grain cooling processes are dryeration, in-storage (or bin) cooling, and combination drying. The figure that follows illustrates these three cooling processes and a description of each is included in Table A-6, page 83.
Appendix A: Grain Drying Operations Table A-6 Description of common grain cooling processes Cooling process Description Dryeration Hot grain is discharged from the dryer with a slight amount (2% to 3%) of excess moisture and heat, tempered for several hours in a dryeration bin, and then slowly cooled to attain the desired moisture content before it can be stored. Advantages • Hot grain is allowed to temper (steep in its own vapor), thus reducing the risk of stress cracks.
Appendix A: Grain Drying Operations Table A-6 Description of common grain cooling processes (cont'd.) Cooling process Description Combination drying Hot grain is discharged from the dryer at a moisture content that is 2% to 3% above its target, placed in a natural air or low-temperature drying bin where it is immediately cooled, and then stored. Advantages • Allows each dryer type to operate at their highest level of efficiency. • Low-temperature drying bin maximizes grain quality.
B Grain Drying Graphs Topics Covered in this Appendix ▪ ▪ ▪ Temperature and Moisture Schemes in Continuous Flow Temperature Control Schemes in Staged Batch Time Control Schemes in Staged Batch PNEG-1851 Vision N2 85
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs Temperature and Moisture Schemes in Continuous Flow Whether you choose temperature or moisture control schemes in continuous flow, you can run in either the full-heat or dry and cool drying strategies.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs Temperature Control Schemes in Staged Batch If you use the grain temperature as the drying phase’s control parameter in staged batch, you can apply different drying strategies simply by adjusting the fan and heater switches and all applicable timers accordingly.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs Diagrams for the Temperature Schemes in Staged Batch NOTE: To apply the full-heat strategy with a multiple-fan dryer: a) select either the Temperature or Dual-Setpoint Temperature control scheme; b) set the Cooling Timer to 0 seconds; c) place the upper Fan and Heater switches in the On position on the control panel and the lower Fan and Heater switches in the Auto position. See Drying Grain in Staged Batch, page 63 for the complete drying procedure.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs NOTE: To apply the full-heat strategy with a single-fan dryer: a) select either the Temperature or Dual-Setpoint Temperature control scheme; b) set the Cooling Timer to 0 seconds; c) place the Fan and Heater switches in the On position on the control panel. See Drying Grain in Staged Batch, page 63 for the complete drying procedure.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs NOTE: To apply the dry and cool strategy with a multiple-fan dryer: a) select either the Temperature or Dual-Setpoint Temperature control scheme; b) set the Cooling Timer to an appropriate value (a value other than 0 seconds); c) place the upper Fan and Heater switches in the On position on the control panel and the lowerFan and Heater switches in the Auto position. See Drying Grain in Staged Batch, page 63 for the complete drying procedure.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs NOTE: To apply the dry and cool strategy with a single-fan dryer: a) select either the Temperature or Dual-Setpoint Temperature control scheme; b) set the Cooling Timer to an appropriate value (a value other than 0 seconds); c) place the Heater and Fan switches in the Auto position on the control panel. See Drying Grain in Staged Batch, page 63 for the complete drying procedure.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs Time Control Schemes in Staged Batch If you use timers to control the drying phase in staged batch, you can apply different drying strategies simply by adjusting the fan and heater switches and all applicable timers accordingly.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs Diagrams for the Time Schemes in Staged Batch NOTE: To apply the full-heat strategy with a multiple-fan dryer: a) select either the Time or Dual-Setpoint Time control scheme; b) set the Cooling Timer to 0 seconds; c) place the upper Fan and Heater switches in the On position on the control panel and the lower Fan and Heater switches in the On position. See Drying Grain in Staged Batch, page 63 for the complete drying procedure.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs NOTE: To apply the full-heat strategy with a single-fan dryer: a) select either the Time or Dual-Setpoint Time control scheme; b) set the Cooling Timer to 0 seconds; c) place the Fan and Heater switches in the On position on the control panel. See Drying Grain in Staged Batch, page 63 for the complete drying procedure.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs NOTE: To apply the dry and cool strategy with a multiple-fan dryer: a) select either the Time or DualSetpoint Time control scheme; b) set the Cooling Timer to an appropriate value (a value other than 0 seconds); c) place the upper Heater and Fan switches in the On position on the control panel and the lower Heater and Fan switches in the Auto position. See Drying Grain in Staged Batch, page 63 for the complete drying procedure.
Appendix B: Grain Drying Graphs NOTE: To apply the dry and cool strategy with a single-fan dryer: a) select either the Time or Dual-Setpoint Time control scheme; b) set the Cooling Timer to an appropriate value (a value other than 0 seconds); c) place the Heater and Fan switches in the Auto position on the control panel. See Drying Grain in Staged Batch, page 63 for the complete drying procedure.
C Messages Topics Covered in this Appendix ▪ The Status Messages The Status Messages Displayed in the status bar, status messages are either general or specific to the chosen drying mode and constantly notify you of the dryer’s current state.
Appendix C: Messages Table C-1 Status messages for both the continuous flow and staged batch modes (cont'd.
D List of Parameters Topics Covered in this Appendix ▪ Vision N2 Parameters for Portable Dryers Vision N2 Parameters for Portable Dryers The menus in your dryer’s graphical interface contain parameters that are used to control a wide range of operating features. This section lists all of these parameters and provides a brief description of each one. Wet Sensor Calibration (Loading Menu) Incoming Grain Moisture — The wet grain’s actual moisture level (%).
Appendix D: List of Parameters Dry Sensor Calibration (Unloading Menu) Outgoing Grain Moisture — The dry grain’s actual moisture level (%). Outgoing Grain Temperature — The dry grain’s actual temperature (°F; °C) Unload Timer (Unloading Menu) Unload Timer — The length of time that the unload auger runs to unload the grain. This timer is only available in staged batch mode.
Appendix D: List of Parameters Speed 1 — In the 5-speed temperature control scheme in continuous flow, a read-only value that is equal to the reference speed minus the outer speed offset. Adjusting this value incrementally does not alter the value of the offset that is set in the 5-Speed Temperature (Continuous Flow) window. Moisture Control Mode (Control Menu) Continuous Flow — A drying mode where grain enters and exits the dryer in one continuous, uninterrupted cycle.
Appendix D: List of Parameters Grain setpoint — The grain’s target temperature value. This setpoint is the reference parameter that is used to determine your dryer’s unload rate. Speed — The desired metering roll speed used to obtain the target grain temperature. If the grain temperature is equal to, or rises 1°F (0.56°C) above its setpoint, the metering rolls turn at this speed setting; 1°F (0.56°C) below the setpoint, the metering rolls automatically stop turning.
Appendix D: List of Parameters Inner Moisture Offset — The small moisture offset, used to obtain the pair of moisture values that are closest to the reference moisture. One value is equal to reference moisture minus this offset, whereas the other is equal to the reference moisture plus this offset. Outer Moisture Offset — The large moisture offset, used to obtain the pair of moisture values that are furthest from the reference moisture.
Appendix D: List of Parameters Dryer Length — The length of your portable dryer (8, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 26 ft). The dryer length is the combined length of all grain columns and each column is 2 ft (61 cm) wide. Loading System — The type of loading systems that is used to load grain.
Appendix D: List of Parameters Burner Mode (System>Dry Advanced) Burner — The type of burner mode that is used to control and maintain a uniform plenum temperature. The available burner modes are the following: • High/low: Depending on the plenum temperature, the burner toggles between high fire and low fire. • On/off: Depending on the plenum temperature, the burner toggles between high fire and shutting off. • Auto: The burner operates in either high/low mode or on/off mode.
Appendix D: List of Parameters Board Mode (System>Control Advanced) Board Mode — The type of operating mode. Use pre-season mode when you need to run the fans and heaters with no grain inside the dryer, without generating a shutdown. Pre-season mode is used for testing purposes—typically, at the beginning of the drying season. Use normal mode on all other occasions.
Glossary Glossary aeration — The process of forcing air through stored grain to maintain quality and prevent moisture accumulation. batch — The quantity of grain that is loaded, dried, cooled, or unloaded in a single batch cycle. combination drying — A grain cooling process that combines the high-temperature drying capabilities of a high-speed dryer with those of a natural air/low-temperature drying bin.
Glossary dryer wet bin — The compartment that maintains an adequate level of wet grain to ensure proper air seal. Perforated to allow the grain to be preheated, the dryer wet bin is also where the wet sensor is situated. The dryer wet bin is located at the top of the dryer. drying capacity — The flow rate of the grain (generally expressed in bushels per hour) as it flows through the dryer over a specific range of moisture removal.
Glossary and throughput specifications, some are faster than others, and therefore run for shorter periods of time when filling the dryer wet bin. metering rolls — A pair of linearly extruded, rotating devices that control the grain’s flow rate as the grain descends from the grain columns to the unload auger. mixed-flow dryer — A type of continuous flow dryer that exposes grain to a combination of heated and cooled air that move in the opposite direction of, and concurrently to, the grain.
NOTES 110 PNEG-1851 Vision N2
Index Index A aeration ............................................................. 107 animation view pane ........................................... 22 auto mode ........................................................... 33 counters resetting........................................................... 36 crossflow dryer .................................................. 107 D B batch ................................................................. 107 bottom auger, See unload auger burner modes.....
Index full-heat ................................31, 41, 46–47, 57, 108 G getting started ..................................................... 27 See also quick startup procedure grain column................................................ 14, 108 See also grain column section grain discharge box............................................. 14 grain moisture ................................................42, 45 downloading data ............................................ 38 monitoring data...............
Index S settings pane....................................................... 21 shutting off the dryer............................................ 36 See also stopping the dryer daily ................................................................. 36 seasonal .......................................................... 37 stage ................................................................. 109 staged batch................................................ 46, 109 control parameters........................
NOTES 114 PNEG-1851 Vision N2
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