The rebound effect refers to a phenomenon that can occur during grain storage. It is often caused by drying too quickly or at too high a temperature.
When drying too quickly, the moisture in the center of the grain doesn't have time to migrate towards the outside. Once stored, the moisture in the grain becomes uniform, and it is at this point that the increase in moisture in the grain can be observed.
Risk to watch out for this year: A plentiful, dry harvest
History repeats itself, so let's remember the mistakes of the past. In 2020, harvest conditions were exceptional: dry grain, warm weather and an abundant harvest. Yet more growers experienced storage problems that year.
When corn is relatively dry (18% to 22% moisture content), it's not uncommon to need to reduce the plenum drying temperature and slightly reduce the drying speed. This is to allow time for the heat to penetrate the grain and cause the moisture to migrate to the outside. This will ensure more uniform drying and avoid the bounce effect when your corn is delivered.
What's more, heating at too high a temperature when the grain is dry damages it and lowers your specific weight. Another good reason to take your time! Because, in any case, the grain is dry, the weather is warm and the harvest is progressing rapidly. So you might as well take advantage of it to maximize your harvest income!