The response to steam processing is highly variable. Variation in steaming time, temperature, moisture, roller pressure, roller tolerance and volume influence the value of the final product. Variations in bushel weight, foreign material content and moisture content also can affect the value of steam-flaked grain sorghum. Most feedlots use a grain conditioner and mechanical grain moisturizers to insure moisture penetration and to add palatability to the flakes. Pressure processing gives the best results when the grain is exposed to live steam for about 1.5 minutes at 45 to 60 pounds per square inch.
Excessive treatment produces an over-gelatinized product that depresses feed consumption and gains.
Pressure processing appears to produce a less fragile flake that does not need to be as flat to obtain the desired improvement. Cost is greater for pressure processing compared with steam flaking. Rate of gain may not be affected. Moist grain sorghum must be rolled or ground before feeding for efficient utilization. Chemical changes during reconstitution may be similar to those in germination.