Selection of grain storage silos: A FARMIX Guide, Volume 2.
Welcome to the second part of our series on choosing a safe and quality grain silo. In part one, we covered the basic aspects to consider when choosing a silo. Now we’ll dive deeper into the technical details and focus on two key elements – the all-mesh floor and aeration fans. Why is a full grid floor a better choice than aeration ducts in concrete? What role do fans play in maintaining the quality and longevity of stored commodities? Join us to get answers to these questions and many more.
Cellulose flooring
Have you ever considered the effect of aeration channels in concrete on the quality of your stored grain? As it turns out, they are not the most ideal choice. Why? They cause uneven aeration of the grain. If your silo only has these channels, the grain in the lowest layers may not have enough air, leading to a reduction in quality. Let’s take a look at the differences between a full floor and aeration channels and see why a full floor is better for grain storage.
Cellulose flooring: The key to optimal grain storage and aeration
In FARMIX, we recommend using a full-roof floor, approximately 30 cm away from the concrete. This prevents direct contact between the grain and the wet concrete, but also ensures better air circulation. The floor system is designed to cover the entire bottom surface of the grain storage silo. Its advanced design allows for better aeration and overall grain management. In contrast, aeration channels are often made up of spaced planks or perforated steel, leaving areas between them that can lead to uneven air distribution. One of the main advantages of all-mesh flooring is consistent and uniform aeration. Better airflow maintains optimum grain quality and prevents grain deterioration. Unlike aeration ducts, the all-mesh floor allows even airflow throughout the silo, eliminating hot spots and reducing the risk of mold, pests and other contaminants. With an all-mesh floor, you’ll achieve greater efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and be confident that your grain is safely stored.
Easy installation and maintenance: more reasons to choose all-weather flooring
Another advantage of the all-grid floor over aeration channels is its ease of installation and maintenance. All-grid floors are designed to be easy to install, and their surface makes cleaning and maintenance a breeze. Traditional aeration channels are cumbersome to install and maintain in comparison, leading to increased labor costs and potential downtime. Now, you may be thinking that using aeration channels in concrete is a more affordable option. Try thinking about it again. While it may seem cheaper at first glance, the cost of aeration simply shifts from the cost of the storage silo to the construction portion. In the end, using concrete channels could cost you more than our all-grid floor solution. 
Aeration fans
When choosing fans, it is crucial to keep performance parameters in mind. These depend primarily on the size of the storage space and the type of commodity being stored. For example, for rapeseed, which is smaller in size and more difficult to aerate, fans with a higher power output should be selected to ensure proper storage and grain protection. In the world of grain storage, fans play a key role in maintaining the quality and longevity of stored commodities. The benefits of fans in grain storage silos are numerous, as they provide efficient aeration and temperature control to prevent spoilage and loss. Let’s take a look at how to determine the performance of these fans depending on the commodity being stored.
Energy efficient and quiet fans: high static pressure and low operating costs
The robust and efficient design of our fans ensures excellent air movement for grain storage. One of their significant advantages is their ability to generate the high static pressure necessary to overcome the resistance created by grain, channels and other obstacles. This high pressure ensures even airflow throughout the silo and keeps the grain in optimum condition. Another advantage of the fans we supply is their energy efficiency. Compared to other fan types, they consume less energy, which reduces operating costs and promotes sustainability. These fans also have a low noise level, making them ideal for installations in residential or noise-sensitive areas.
Performance optimization of aeration fans for different cereal commodities
The performance of aeration fans in grain storage silos can be determined by the commodity being stored. Different commodities require different airflow rates and temperature control strategies. For example, wheat and barley need relatively higher airflow rates than corn or soybeans – due to their higher respiration rates. Fan performance should therefore be evaluated based on the specific requirements of the stored grain. To determine the optimum fan performance for a particular commodity, we must consider the moisture content of the grain and the required storage time. Proper sizing and fan selection are critical to achieving the desired airflow and maintaining ideal storage conditions. In addition, investing in high quality centrifugal fans will help maximize performance, extend fan life and ensure consistent results. The benefits of quality fans in grain storage silos are undeniable. These fans offer efficient aeration, temperature control and energy savings, making them a valuable addition to any grain storage facility. Determining fan performance based on the commodity being stored is critical to ensuring optimal conditions and maintaining grain quality. By choosing the right fan, you get an efficient and cost-effective solution. 