New grain-handling products released at this year’s Farm Progress Show are pushing capacity limits and making equipment easier to use. Several companies introduced larger-diameter air systems at the show that move more grain without traditional grain legs. Vari-Air’s 100-hp system moves 3,200 bushels per hour, while their 8-inch grain vac handles 4,500 bushels per hour. Walinga now offers 7- to 10-inch air systems with bigger blowers and air locks to handle increased volumes.
AGI’s new PTO-driven Batco LCX4 Swing Conveyor moves 9,000 bushels per hour using smaller tractors, eliminating the need for high horsepower to power conveyors. The mechanical swing design is a first in the industry. AGI also introduced a bucket elevator designed around maintenance access, with multiple inspection doors and removable panels that reduce downtime.
Automation and control systems are getting more integrated. Shivvers’ Apex Command Center combines dryer control with storage bin monitoring in one system, managing temperature, moisture and fan operation together. KSI updated its bin fill conveyor with a 180-degree swing-away option and remote control, plus introduced a seed treater with helical mixing technology.
Safety equipment includes Walinga’s Bin Rescue Air-Vac, designed specifically for grain entrapment emergencies. The hydraulic-powered skid vac offers portable cleanup capability using existing skid loaders. These products reflect the industry’s focus on moving more grain faster while making equipment more practical for daily farm operations.