There are more than 1,000 Svegma continuous flow driers working in the UK, with more being installed by distributor McArthur BDC,
“Crucially, continuous flow grain driers can keep up with modern combine capacity delivering guaranteed drying and cooling independent of weather conditions with a quick turnaround,” said John McArthur, managing director, McArthur BDC.
Three farmers who installed new drying systems in 2024, spoke about their experience with the equipment.
“I needed to increase our grain intake capacity which meant an upgrade to my existing grain drying and storage capabilities,” said Martin Bramley, J Bramley & Son, who farms near Leeds. “Not only to handle our own grain but to enable us to expand our contract grain drying and storage business.
“The proven reliability and capacity of the Svegma drier was a key factor in my decision to install one as part of our upgrade. It is imperative that there are no unnecessary hold ups for us, or our customers, during harvest,” explained Bramley. “The capacity of the Svegma was also important as it enables us to dry grain as quickly as it comes off the combines and we keep the corn trailers moving.”
Martin spoke to the McArthur BDC team at Lamma 2024, and agreed on a 30t/hr drier, with Skandia Elevator 60t/hr I-Line handling equipment, all controlled remotely with a PLC panel.
“It is a huge plus to be able to work with one supplier that can handle the design, install and then ongoing servicing and maintenance. McArthur BDC really does provide a one-stop shop,” he added.
Andrew Reed, who farms near Berwick upon Tweed, chose a 38t/hr model to bridge his new grain store with the existing facilities.
My old plant was reaching end of life. We were beginning to experience reliability issues – which is the last thing you want to be worrying about when harvest gets going,” he said.
“I needed to increase my drying and storage capabilities and when it came to the choice of drier, I went for a Svegma. I was aware that due to its reliability and efficiency Svegma was held in high esteem, and it has a real following in Northumberland and the Scottish borders.”
He also invested in the Moisture Monitoring System (MMS), which aids with drier setting decisions, including the discharge rate. An Aagaard pre-cleaner and Skandia handling equipment were also added to the package.
North Lincolnshire grower, Harry Strawson, looked to the brand to increase his grain drying capability.
“My choice of a Svegma drier was based on its proven track record of successfully meeting the drying demands of UK farmers. Its build quality and durability were important as the drier is, like the majority of Svegmas, located outside of the new store,” he explained.
“It is a big benefit to work with McArthur BDC who, as well as being widely regarded as grain storage experts, is able to design, supply and install new and upgraded grain plants.
“Working with just one team does simplify any project, and another plus for me is that McArthur BDC’s Flixborough’s operation is very local.
“Liaising closely with the McArthur BDC team meant that I was involved at every stage of the project. The team’s collaborative approach is important as we had to work with the building contractors to ensure everything ran on time and was ready for harvest.”
John McArthur concluded: “Continuous flow grain drying systems are a big-ticket investment for any farm business. The output of these driers continues to grow as does farm size and we are seeing an increase in the number of farm businesses that plan to offer drying and storage as a service, alongside serving their own needs.”
“Careful consideration around individual drying and storage requirements must be given during the project development process, to ensure that the final system delivers the benefits and return on investment the farm business needs.”
For more information go to www.mcarthurbdc.co.uk
