Modelling the process of forage conservation
1991
McGechan, M.B. (Scottish Centre of Agricultural Engineering, Midlothian (United Kingdom))
Two main types of models which have been used in the study of forage conservation are described, models of individual physical processes, and "operational research" models in which economics are considered. A wide range of physical processes which have been modelled are listed. Models of two of these processes, field drying of swaths and air infiltration to silos, are described in more detail. An operational research model, which links models of individual processes to consider the economics of a whole conservation system, is also described. A few results for models of individual processes are presented, together with some of the more far-reaching results obtained when physical models are linked into a whole system model. In particular, the substantial economic benefits from wilting silage to about 30 % dry matter content are highlighted. Opportunities for further modelling work are described.
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