Signs Your Silo Needs Cleaning

The first and most common sign of buildup is a gradual reduction in discharge rate. As material accumulates on walls, the effective cross-section diameter narrows and restricts flow. This change often occurs so gradually that operators do not notice until the rate has decreased by 20-30%. Regular logging of discharge rates makes it easier to detect the trend early.

When mass flow changes to funnel flow due to wall buildup, new material exits first while old material remains along the walls. This causes varying product quality, especially for time-sensitive materials. Contamination from degraded wall material can also affect product quality. Lumps or discolored particles in the discharge are a clear sign.

Material collapse from bridges and wall buildup produces characteristic sounds - sudden thuds and impacts audible from outside the silo. Vibrations in the silo structure can indicate unstable material flow. Creaking and cracking sounds may suggest stuck material under tension. Operators familiar with the silo's normal sound levels will quickly notice changes.

Unreliable or contradictory readings from level sensors can indicate buildup. Material adhering to sensors gives inaccurate measurements. Radar-based level sensors can give false signals from uneven surfaces caused by funnel flow. Comparison between weighing and level measurement can reveal discrepancies suggesting buildup.

Regular visual inspection through inspection hatches is valuable. Look for material buildup on walls, changed surface patterns, moisture marks, and discoloration. Use of cameras mounted inside the silo can provide continuous monitoring without entry.

Do not wait until the silo is completely blocked. Contact Blue Power at the first signs of reduced performance. Early intervention is faster, more affordable, and less disruptive than emergency cleaning of a completely blocked silo.