Checklist for Buyers (For Grain Silos)
Farming industries consider buying silos as an investment for long term. So, the decision to buy a grain silo is a tricky one. And the silo carry significant impacts on the farming as well. Let us get the first thing first & make the checklist to buy a grain silo now.
Air Flow Check
Existing fans of a grain silo is the actual provider of air flow. They determine the airflow level and ultimately the quality of crops. Proper fans prevent the unacceptable quality loss of crops. So, make sure the fans are giving enough airflow to your crops to keep them dry and cool.
Grain Silo Size Check
Most daunting key feature comes now, grain silo size. Consider your storage requirement for the next 20+ years and determine the silo size. For proper accuracy, follow the basic method of estimating bushels in a round grain bin.
Safety Feature Check
Conduct a safety audit of the potential hazard areas. Keep in mind the machinery used in and around the silos, like grain augers and silo ladders. Check each and every part of the both external and internal part of the silo and edge protection.
Accessibility Check
Check the rapid access around the silo. The ladder should be inspected for rusty rugs. Make sure all bolts are in place as well. Moat silos have access door in the sidewall. They must be properly supported to withstand the stresses.
Aeration Check
Moisture control is vital for long term grain storage. Aeration cooling not only reduce moisture and prevent moisture migration, but also keep lower the grain temperature. Properly managed aeration has ducting and venting combination for appropriate cooling.
Maintenance Data Check
To ensure more durability and better longevity, must consider the regular maintenance data check. As these sturdy steel structure will turn quite fragile and lose their strength if not properly maintained. Lack of maintenance is the biggest reason for the early deterioration of grain silos.
Design Check
Most silos vary slightly in design. But they are operated in the same way. Check any simple roof platform and ladder cages are included or not? While checking the interior of silos, make sure the seal at the base shows no evidence of water. No rust would be there.
Seal Check
Must check the silo seals. As the seal would ensure your stored crops protection against insect and pests. May take a pressure test to measure how well the silo will contain fumigation gas. For slide plate outlets, tested both when empty and full with grain.
Capability Check
Every silo is different. Maintain collaboration with the manufacturer to determine the most cost effective silo with highest quality outcome. Make sure the bulk density is specific to make even pressure in the cylindrical container
There are no substitutes of physical checking and measuring before buying a grain silo. Otherwise it may cost you more afterwards for a wrong pick. However, if you can afford them, there are several silos you can buy for your harvest. But you don’t want to get surprised with a silo that doesn’t work correctly, so the checklist needs to be done right now.
