MODULE 2 Silos
Designed to ensure safe containment of materials while facilitating
efficient loading and unloading process.
Feeders and Silos
Two fundamental components of a solid material handling system. TYPES OF FEEDERS
1. Tower Silos
Feeders Most recognizable type of silo with Tall, cylindrical structure. Height
Designed to regulate and control the flow of materials from storage ranges from 10 to 50 meters with diameters varying from 3 to 10
units. Ensure a consistent, controlled and measured discharge of meters.
materials.
Advantages
TYPES OF FEEDERS 1. Tends to pack well due to its own weight.
2. Lower Storage Losses
1. Vibratory Feeders 3. Requires less area for construction.
Operate using a vibrating mechanism generated by an 4. Allows greater mechanization during filling and feed out.
electromagnetic or mechanical drive system. 5. Convenient to unload in winter.
Advantages Disadvantages
1. Gentle Handling 1. Higher initial cost
2. Precise Flow Control 2. Unloads more slowly
3. Versatility 3. Silage moisture cannot be as high as compared to other
4. Low Maintenance silo types
Applications 2. Bunker Silos
1. Food Processing Horizontal storage systems designed for bulk materials that
2. Pharmaceuticals require easy access and handling.
3. Mining and Quarrying
Advantages
2. Rotary Feeders 1. Lower capital investment
Use a rotary vane or drum to move materials from the storage unit 2. Flexible storage system
to the next stage. 3. Feed is easily inventoried
4. Can be used for small and large herds
Advantages 5. Fewer safety and health hazards
1. Airlock Functionality 6. Lower Storage Losses
2. Handling Versatility - handle sticky or cohesive
substances Disadvantages
3. Consistent Flow 1. Specialized equipment may be needed
2. Plastic disposal creates extra labor and environmental
Application concerns
1. Chemical Industry 3. Bags must remain intact, compromised bag can result in
2. Cement Manufacturing a complete loss
3. Grain and Feed Processing
3. Bag Silos
3. Belt Feeders Portable and temporary solution for bulk material storage, ideal for
Consists of a continuous belt driven by pulleys or rollers. short-term storage needs or operations requiring mobility.
Advantages Advantages
1. High-Capacity Handling 1. Lower capital investment
2. Continuous Operation 2. Flexible storage system
3. Material Compatibility 3. Feed is easily inventoried
4. Scalability 4. Can be used for small and large herds
5. Fewer safety and health hazards
Application 6. Lower Storage Losses
1. Mining
2. Agriculture Disadvantages
3. Power Generation 1. Specialized equipment may be needed
2. Plastic disposal creates extra labor and environmental
Choosing the Right Feeder concerns
1. Material Properties 3. Bags must remain intact, compromised bag can result in
2. Operational Needs a complete loss
3. System Integration
4. Maintenance Consideration
4. Hopper-Bottom Silos
Feature a cylindrical structure with a conical or funnel-shaped
bottom. Versatile and can store both dry and semi dry materials.
Advantages
1. Efficient Material Discharge:
2. Automation Compatibility
3. Easy Cleaning and Maintenance:
4. Versatility
5. Compact Design
6. Reduced Risk of Contamination
Disadvantages
1. Higher Initial Cost
2. Limited Storage Capacity
3. Height Requirement
4. Material Flow Issues
5. Increased Transportation Costs
5. Flat-Bottom Silos
Characterized by their flat base. Typically larger in diameter
compared to hopper-bottom silos, allowing for higher storage
capacity.
Advantages
1. Large Storage Capacity
2. Cost-Effectiveness
3. Durability
4. Aeration Systems
5. Customizability
6. Multi-Material Storage
Disadvantages
1. Challenging Material Discharge
2. Slower Discharge Rates
3. Higher Maintenance Requirements
4. Larger Footprint
5. Limited Accessibility
6. Risk of Spoilage
1.