Practical aspects of silo design and installation
Prior to the start of solids flow research in the 1960's, silo and storage bin design was a hit-or-miss empirical affair; success was ensured only if the material was free-flowing. While powder storage is still the Cinderella of process technology, sorting through basic parameters can help you design a system with a reasonable chance of operational viability. This article discusses several practical considerations of silo systems, including the design of the silo, the flow properties of the material, and the use of ancillary devices.
In the main, experience with a particular bulk solid, and the handling/storage system in question is the only safe and sure route to a successful installation. Nevertheless, defining certain standard parameters can help you design and specify your system with a more than reasonable chance of operational viability.