Enter the weight of silage fed (kg) and the volume of silage removed (m^3) into the Silage Density Calculator. The calculator will evaluate and display the Silage Density. 

Silage Density Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Silage Density. 

SD = WS / VSR
  • Where SD is the Silage Density (kg/m^3)
  • WS is the weight of silage fed (kg) 
  • VSR is the volume of silage removed (m^3) 

How to Calculate Silage Density?

The following example problems outline how to calculate Silage Density.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the weight of silage fed (kg).
    1. The weight of silage fed (kg) is given as: 6000.
  2. Next, determine the volume of silage removed (m^3).
    1. The volume of silage removed (m^3) is provided as: 200.
  3. Finally, calculate the Silage Density using the equation above: 

SD = WS / VSR

The values given above are inserted into the equation below:

SD = 6000 / 200 = 30 (kg/m^3)

FAQ

What factors can affect the density of silage?

The density of silage can be affected by several factors including the moisture content of the silage, the type of forage being ensiled, the degree of compaction during storage, and the length of storage time. Higher moisture content and better compaction generally lead to higher silage density.

Why is silage density important?

Silage density is important because it affects the amount of silage that can be stored in a given space, the quality of the silage during storage, and the ease of feeding. Higher density silage typically has less oxygen, which reduces the risk of spoilage, leading to better preservation of nutrients.

How can farmers improve the density of their silage?

Farmers can improve silage density by ensuring the forage is at the optimal moisture content for ensiling, using proper packing techniques to compact the silage well during filling, and by choosing the right type of silo or storage structure that allows for effective compaction and minimal air infiltration.