A new ISU Extension publication, Grain Test Weight Deceptions, PMR 1005, discusses the purpose for grain test weight, how it can be used to determine grain value and how calculations can be deceptive.

Deception often occurs when one believes that an increase in test weight equals an increase in the weight of grain sold, but this is not true. Instead, test weight is a measure of grain quality and density.

According to the publication, prepared by ISU agricultural and biosystems engineering faculty, increased test weight simply means the corn occupies less total volume because of greater bulk density. However, at sale, one bushel of corn is 56 pounds regardless of test weight.

Test weight can affect the price a seller receives. Additionally, drying methods can increase test weight, and there are various methods of drying that produce different results.

These things are discussed more in-depth in the publication, which was prepared by Carl Bern, professor of agricultural and biosystems engineering and Thomas J. Brumm, associate professor of agricultural and biosystems engineering.

Further Reading

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