The Grain Loss Calculator is an agricultural tool used to estimate how much grain is lost during harvest. It helps farmers measure the efficiency of their combines and identify areas where improvements can reduce waste. By calculating grain loss per acre, operators can make informed decisions about machine settings, harvesting speed, and maintenance. This tool belongs to the agricultural calculators category and is essential for maximizing yield and minimizing financial loss.
Using the Grain Loss Calculator allows farmers to monitor field performance, optimize harvest operations, and understand the economic impact of grain loss. It is practical for various crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat, sorghum, and canola. The calculator provides both physical and financial insights, helping in better resource management.
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Bushels per Acre Loss Formula
Bushels per Acre Loss = Average Kernel Count per Square Foot / Kernels per Square Foot Factor
Average Kernel Count per Square Foot
This is the average number of loose kernels counted on the ground within a one-square-foot frame at several locations behind the combine.
Kernels per Square Foot Factor
This standard value represents how many kernels in a square-foot area equal a loss of one bushel per acre. Values differ by crop type:
Corn: 2 kernels per square foot
Soybeans: 4 kernels per square foot
Wheat: 20 kernels per square foot
Sorghum (Milo): 18 kernels per square foot
Canola: 65 kernels per square foot
Total Financial Loss Formula
Total Financial Loss = Bushels per Acre Loss × Total Acres Harvested × Price per Bushel
This formula calculates the monetary impact of the grain loss, helping farmers understand how lost kernels affect overall revenue.
Useful Table for Quick Reference
The following table shows quick kernel-to-bushel conversions for common grains. It helps estimate loss without repeated calculations.
| Grain Type | Kernels per Square Foot Factor | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Corn | 2 | Each 2 kernels = 1 bushel/acre |
| Soybeans | 4 | Each 4 kernels = 1 bushel/acre |
| Wheat | 20 | Small seeds, higher factor |
| Sorghum | 18 | Also called Milo |
| Canola | 65 | Very small seeds, high factor |
This table allows farmers to quickly estimate bushel loss based on kernel counts per square foot.
Example
Suppose a farmer is harvesting corn and collects the following data:
Average Kernel Count per Square Foot = 6
Field Size = 50 acres
Price per Bushel = $6
Step 1: Calculate Bushels per Acre Loss
Bushels per Acre Loss = 6 / 2 = 3 bushels per acre
Step 2: Calculate Total Financial Loss
Total Financial Loss = 3 × 50 × 6 = $900
The farmer is losing 3 bushels per acre, which translates into $900 for the 50-acre field. Adjusting combine settings could reduce this loss and save money.
Most Common FAQs
It belongs to the agricultural calculators category, used for estimating grain loss during harvest and its financial impact.
Yes, it works for corn, soybeans, wheat, sorghum, and canola. Each grain type has a different kernels per square foot factor to calculate bushel loss accurately.
Yes, it is beginner-friendly. Counting kernels and using the standard factors makes it simple to estimate both physical loss and financial impact without complex calculations.