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“Cabling technology” for advanced grain management --- perspectives on rice quality and mycotoxins 
G. G. ATUNGULU (1), G. G. Atunguu (1). (1) University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, FAYETTEVILLE, AR, U.S.A.

Recently-introduced Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC) Controlled drying technology, also known as “cabling technology”, for use in on-farm drying systems offers a means to utilize the advantages of low-temperature, in-bin drying of rice. With the new “cabling technology”, drying fan operation is controlled depending on the EMC conditions of the drying air and the moisture content (MC) of the grain. Drying fans are operated only under set conditions of drying air temperature and relative humidity to avoid over-drying or re-wetting of the grain. The new in-bin technology comprises of sensors to measure ambient air conditions, and monitor the MC and temperature of the grain throughout the bin; the MC history of the grain during drying can be accessed anytime via the internet, which makes monitoring of the grain MC very effective.     From an electronic monitor and fan control standpoint, the new “cabling technology” appears very promising for managing rice after harvest.  However, the ultimate success hinges on accurate EMC data to establish optimal airflow rates and fan run time; understanding the extent of rice quality reduction, particularly those in the upper layers where the rice stay at high MC for prolonged durations; and provision of efficient supplemental heating systems to speed up rice drying in the event that the prevailing weather conditions do not allow complete and timely drying.  This presentation discusses perspectives on rice quality and safety when using these new systems for drying and storage of rice. Case studies using data of drying and storage of rice across multiple bins situated in the US Mid-Southern states, and advances to optimize the new “cabling technology” for rapid and successful implementation are discussed. 

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