Effect of drainage systems on the water release rate in the process of drying wheat and corn grain

The basic aim of this research is to determine the influence of various types of pipe drainage upon the water release rate in the process of drying wheat and corn kernels grown on a hydromorphic type of soil. The research was conducted during a period of three years (1998–2001). Seven different types of drainage systems were built on pseudogleyic‐gleyic soil (various spacings of drainage pipes with gravel used or not used in the drainage trench above the pipes). Based on soil moisture measurement data (to a soil depth of 60 cm), acquired by means of the gravitational method in the period of vegetation, it is clear that the most favourable humidity occurred on soil with spacing of drainage pipes being 25 m, gravel used, with both cultures. The yield gained also shows that this drainage type is the most favourable. The process of drying the kernels to the storage humidity value took the shortest time with this type of drainage. Results of this research contribute to energy savings in the process of drying wheat and corn crops. Additionally, the results can be used for selecting systems of drainage in dealing with excess water on hydromorphic soil types. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.