Silos are pits or towers commonly found at manufacturing sites. They come in many shapes and sizes and are designed for the bulk storage of grain, flour, cement, coal, and many other materials. As time passes these silos are prone to many variations of unwanted material buildup that requires routine cleanings. Compacted or hydrated material along the walls may prevent your silo from being able to store to full capacity. In extreme cases, although not uncommon, a silo could lose 30-50% of holding capacity on account of this unwanted excess material. Since silo cleaning restores storage capacity and recovers lost materials, a clean silo is a cost effective solution for meeting production goals and increasing profitability, saving you time and money down the road.
Silos Are Prone to Material Blockages & “Bridging”
There are many different types of material blockages. Some materials may cake onto the wall or become compacted onto the floors. “Bridging” can also occur as a result of friction on the inner walls that prevents the proper flow of product to the auger or pneumatic conveyance system. Silos in outdoor environments will be affected by temperature and moisture condensation that can result in clumping of grains.
Food Storage Silo Maintenance
Food manufacturer silos are especially at risk for attracting rodents and pests, some of which may eat the contents of the silo or contribute to rapid mold growth. A food storage silo will typically have platforms or cages at the top for ease of access in cleaning and servicing. Since a break in one of these cages could be covered by material build up, a worker must fully inspect them and ensure that he is wearing a proper harness before entering the cage. Cleaning the silo will sufficiently clear the space for inspections to reveal a coating system that is failing, a water leak, or other areas that may need repair that would be otherwise undetectable if covered by built up materials.
Risk Factors Associated with Silo Cleaning
There are many highly dangerous risk factors associated with cleaning silos. Persons who enter are at risk of falls, oxygen depletion, entrapment, or drowning in liquid or fine-milled products. Dusts from grain and flour can form explosive clouds and a spark on the wall of a silo could be devastating. Silos are considered one of OSHA’s “confined spaces” so all persons entering the silo must have the training and expertise to carefully adhere to safety protocols. OSHA regulations require the air within the silo to be tested prior to entrance to ensure sufficient oxygen levels and detect any combustible or toxic gases within the silo. If hazardous particles are detected, ventilation of the silo’s atmosphere is required to reduce the gases to a non-hazardous level.
A Break Down of the Silo Cleaning Process
The most common process for cleaning silos is brushing down the sides of the interior and scraping away debris. Plastic scrapers are often used by technicians to carefully avoid scratching the surface and prevent sparking. A proper and full cleaning can be ensured by a combination of both scraping, brushing, and vacuuming to remove the excess remains on the floor of the silo. Built up materials on the floor can sometimes generate static electricity resulting in a highly dangerous environment for technicians. A wooden pole can be attached to the vacuum hose to avoid electric shock.
Some silos will have an opening at the top instead of a cage, requiring workers to be lowered down via a motor-operated or hand-operated “bosun’s chair,” secured on the outside of the silo. An opening at the top of the silo is important no matter what cleaning method is being used, as it allows for both access and proper ventilation. An opening at the bottom of the silo is equally important for product that is being drained after cleanings. In a case where there are no access doors at either end of the silo, access doors will need to be installed.
When it comes down to it, it’s best to trust the experts. At Environmental Remedies our technicians have the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to safely clean your silos, maximize your product, and keep your business on track. For more information on our silo cleaning methods, get in touch with our experts at 800-399-2783 or get started by Requesting a Quote.