A silo tank is more than just a storage container—it’s an engineered system designed for the safe, efficient, and reliable storage of bulk materials such as powders, grains, liquids, and chemicals. Whether it’s for the food industry, dairy plants, chemical processing, agriculture, or water treatment, proper fabrication is critical to ensure long-lasting performance and operational safety.Below are the key points you should never miss during silo tank fabrication.
1. Define the Application and Stored Material
Start by clearly identifying:
- Type of material: solid (powder, grain), slurry, or liquid
- Material properties: corrosiveness, flowability, moisture content, temperature sensitivity
- Required volume and discharge frequency
This determines everything from the material of construction to discharge design and safety features.
2. Choose the Right Material of Construction (MOC)
Your MOC should balance strength, corrosion resistance, and budget:
- SS316/SS304: Food-grade, hygienic—ideal for dairy, pharma, and beverages
- MS + FRP/epoxy coating: Excellent for chemical resistance at lower cost
- Aluminum or Carbon Steel: Lightweight, ideal for dry, non-corrosive goods
3. Geometry, Capacity & Flow Optimization
Silo geometry should enhance discharge and space efficiency:
- Optimize height-to-diameter ratio for flow behavior
- Conical or sloped bottoms support mass flow and prevent bridging
- Leave adequate headspace for loading, manhole access, and cleaning
4. Discharge & Flow-Aid Systems
Avoid flow disruptions with engineered discharge systems:
- Use gravity flow, fluidizing pads, vibrators, or air cannons
- Select outlet valves based on material characteristics (knife gate, rotary, butterfly)
- Smooth internal welds and finishes reduce residue buildup
5. Thermal and Pressure Considerations
For heat-sensitive or reactive contents:
- Include insulation and cladding
- Add heating jackets or cooling coils if necessary
- Reinforce structure for vacuum or pressure resistance in case of pneumatic filling or nitrogen blanketing
6. Instrumentation and Monitoring
Incorporate:
- Level sensors, load cells, or sight glasses
- Temperature probes, pressure relief valves, and breather vents
- Integration with PLC/SCADA systems for inventory control and safety monitoring
7. Hygienic Finish & Cleanability
Critical in food, dairy, and pharma:
- Finish to Ra ≤ 0.8 µm for microbial resistance
- Weld polishing and CIP (Clean-In-Place) compatibility
- Avoid sharp corners or unpolished weld joints
8. Design for Structural Integrity & Safety Standards
Comply with industry-specific regulations:
- Follow standards: ASME, API 650, IS 803, BIS, FDA, GMP
- Factor in wind loads, seismic risks, and live loads
- Include safe access: manways, ladders, safety railings
9. Fabrication Quality Control
- Use certified welders and tested procedures (TIG/MIG welding)
- Perform non-destructive testing (NDT) – such as radiography, dye-penetrant, or ultrasonic testing
- Hydrostatic testing for liquid tanks to ensure leakage resistance
- Final inspection reports and QA documentation should be part of the handover