Comparison of intensity measurement methods in silage material

In this study, different methods of intensity measurement have been tested in order to determine the intensity of the material in corn silage making on surface mass silo on site conditions. Three different methods, bulk intensity measurement, mass intensity measurement (D1, D2, K1, K2)and penetrometer measurement ,have been used. Intensity measurements have been carried out within two different periods as during ensilaging and after ensilaging. Measurements have been made repetitively on bottom, middle and upper layers in order to express the general state of the silo. At the same time, compression force has been measured on the layers by using PMS (pressure measurement system) and the potential temperature has been measured by using temperature sensors which were located inside the silo and can save data.Therefore, the variability of silo intensity can be observed according to the compression of the silo. Potential temperatures are important for expressing the correct fermentation process. This study is important in the meaning of making the intensity measurements during ensilaging. The compression being at sufficient level is important for obtaining quality silage. Thus, according to the analysis of the silage after opening Flieg scoring systems have been made and observed according to the intensity measurements. According to the result of the study, although there have been different measurements in intensity rates for all methods observed the material intensity has increased by going from the upper layer to the bottom layer in all methods. This situation has been similar during the opening. The highest intensity has been measured at the point that the compression pressure is high and the best Flieg scores have been measured at the silage samples taken from this section. High intensity at equal levels in every part of silo is possible with a correct silo management. Keywords : density, silage, silo, volume, pressure