Engineering Research Unit (ERU) develops technology to measure grain quality and improve handling and storage techniques. To meet industry needs, ERU has projects that:

• develop technology to select kernels with specific quality traits for breeding lines;
  
• develop new sensors for measuring grain quality and safety;
  
• develop improved storage and handling techniques;
  
• provide engineering expertise through cooperative research with other laboratories, agencies, universities, and industry groups
  
• provide engineering support for other disciplines such as developing techniques to rapidly measure characteristics of insects, including vectors of infectious diseases.

Specific projects include:

1. CRIS 5430-43440-005-00D - Improved handling and storage systems for grain quality maintenance and measurement.
   
2. CRIS 5430-44000-015-00D - Objective grading and end-use property assessment of single kernels and bulk grain samples.
   
3. Specific Cooperative Agreement with Kansas State Univ. titled: "Improved Handling of Grain in Commercial Elevators."
   
4. Agreement with Texas A&M to develop procedures to measure the physical properties of tracers, and determine how tracers perform in commercial grain handling systems.
   
5. Specific Cooperative agreement with Kansas State University to "Develop Techniques and Procedures to measure Characteristics of Grain Plants."
   
6. Specific Cooperative Agreement with JAG Services for "SKCS Uniformity Measures Relating to the Laboratory and Commercial Milling of Wheat."
   
7. Specific Cooperative Agreement with Kansas State University to determine the impact of single kernel and bulk sample characteristics on milling yield and economics.
   
8. Specific Cooperative Agreement with Purdue University to develop basic knowledge and understanding of the relationships between processing characteristics and the physical properties and chemical properties of shelled corn.