The Grain Test Weight Calculator is an agricultural tool used to measure and convert the weight of grain per unit volume. Test weight indicates the quality and density of the grain, which affects pricing, storage, and processing. It is especially important for buyers, sellers, and farmers to determine the value of the harvested grain. This tool belongs to the agricultural calculators category and is essential for ensuring accurate measurement and proper handling of grains.
Using this calculator allows users to convert test weights between the US customary system (pounds per bushel) and the metric system (kilograms per hectoliter). It also helps estimate changes in test weight due to moisture content adjustments, which can occur during drying or storage. The calculator is suitable for grains like corn, wheat, and soybeans.
formula
Unit Conversion Formulas
From Pounds per Bushel to Kilograms per Hectoliter:
Kilograms per Hectoliter = Pounds per Bushel × 1.287
From Kilograms per Hectoliter to Pounds per Bushel:
Pounds per Bushel = Kilograms per Hectoliter × 0.777
Test Weight Adjustment for Moisture Content
Primary Formula:
Estimated New Test Weight = Original Test Weight + Total Test Weight Increase
Moisture Points Removed
Moisture Points Removed = Initial Moisture Percentage – Final Moisture Percentage
Total Test Weight Increase
Total Test Weight Increase = Moisture Points Removed × Adjustment Factor per Point
Adjustment Factor per Point (varies by grain type):
Corn: 0.25 pounds per bushel for each percentage point of moisture removed
Wheat: 0.33 pounds per bushel for each percentage point of moisture removed
Soybeans: 0.20 pounds per bushel for each percentage point of moisture removed
These formulas allow farmers and grain handlers to convert test weights and estimate changes due to drying, providing practical and reliable information for financial and operational decisions.
Useful Table for Quick Reference
The following table shows common grains, typical test weights, and conversion values for quick reference.
| Grain Type | Typical Test Weight (lb/bu) | Typical Test Weight (kg/hl) | Moisture Adjustment Factor (lb/bu per % moisture) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corn | 56 | 72.07 | 0.25 |
| Wheat | 60 | 77.22 | 0.33 |
| Soybeans | 60 | 77.22 | 0.20 |
| Barley | 48 | 61.78 | 0.30 |
| Sorghum | 56 | 72.07 | 0.28 |
This table helps users quickly estimate test weights or convert units without repeating detailed calculations.
Example
Suppose a farmer has wheat with an original test weight of 60 lb/bu at 14% moisture and dries it to 12% moisture.
Step 1: Calculate Moisture Points Removed
Moisture Points Removed = 14 – 12 = 2
Step 2: Calculate Total Test Weight Increase
Total Test Weight Increase = 2 × 0.33 = 0.66 lb/bu
Step 3: Estimate New Test Weight
Estimated New Test Weight = 60 + 0.66 ≈ 60.66 lb/bu
Step 4: Convert to Metric (optional)
Kilograms per Hectoliter = 60.66 × 1.287 ≈ 77.97 kg/hl
The wheat test weight increases slightly after drying, which can affect its market value and storage requirements.
Most Common FAQs
It belongs to the agricultural calculators category, used for measuring grain density and converting units between US and metric systems.
Yes, it estimates test weight adjustments based on moisture content removed, using standard adjustment factors for each grain type.
Yes, it is beginner-friendly. Users can quickly convert units and estimate test weight changes using the provided formulas and tables without complex calculations.