Cement & Minerals

• Hardened cement and clinker forming massive blockages in silos and bunkers • Ratholing — material flows only through a narrow channel while tons remain stuck along the walls • Bridging over the outlet that completely stops material flow • Moisture ingress that accelerates hardening and turns deposits rock-solid • Fine cement dust that packs and compresses under its own weight • Clinker residue that bakes onto surfaces in high-temperature zones • Reduced storage capacity — silos rated for 500 tonnes may only hold 200

Cement and minerals block silos through several mechanisms: 1. Hygroscopic hardening: Cement absorbs moisture from the air and begins a slow hydration reaction. Over weeks and months, this forms a rock-hard layer along silo walls and in dead zones. 2. Pressure compaction: In tall silos (15–30 metres), the material's own weight compresses the lower layers. Fine cement dust with particle sizes below 50 microns is especially vulnerable. 3. Temperature fluctuations: Day/night cycles and seasonal variations create condensation on silo walls, triggering localised hardening. 4. Standstill periods: During maintenance shutdowns or reduced production, material sits idle and the hardening process accelerates without the mechanical disturbance of normal operation. 5. Geometric dead zones: Transitions, cones and flat bottoms create areas where material never moves naturally.

Blue Power uses a combination of proven methods tailored to the cement industry's unique challenges: 🔹 Mechanical cleaning with remote-controlled tools: We use purpose-built equipment operated from outside the silo — no personnel entry required. Rotating heads, high-pressure air systems and pneumatic hammers break up hardened material in a controlled manner. 🔹 Air cannon systems: For prevention, we install strategically placed air cannons that deliver powerful, short pressure blasts to prevent material build-up. We dimension the number, placement and force based on the silo's geometry and material type. 🔹 Inspection and mapping: Before every job, we conduct a thorough condition assessment with cameras and sensors to map the extent of blockage and select the optimal method. 🔹 Preventive maintenance plans: After cleaning, we offer tailored maintenance agreements that ensure continuous operation and prevent recurrence. All operations are carried out in accordance with ATEX regulations and Norwegian HSE standards.