Bulk Storage Protection Solutions
What are Bins and Silos and What They Do
Bulk storage bins and silos are used to store grain, feed, and dry bulk materials throughout milling and grain facilities. Bins are generally shorter and wider for frequent filling and discharge, whereas silos are taller, cylindrical structures designed for high-volume or long-term storage. Both are integral to moving material throughout the facility and are commonly connected to:
- Bucket elevators
- Conveyors
- Dust collection systems
Bins and silos act as central points for collecting and distributing dusty materials. Their interiors are typically confined, dusty, and aerated, which can create significant fire and explosion risks without proper protection.
Potential Risks in Bins and Silos
Bins and silos are one of the most combustible dust-dense environments in a grain facility. Common ignition and explosion hazards include:
- Fine dust generated during filling and aeration
- Embers or hot particles entering from hot work or proceeding equipment
- Static discharge created by material flow
- Hot spots or smoldering dust layers
- Pressure buildup within the confined silo volume
- Explosion propagation through ducting, conveyors, and dust collectors
- Secondary explosions triggered by dislodging settled dust
In the event of an ignition, a silo’s enclosed structure amplifies pressure and accelerates flame spread – increasing the risk of catastrophic damage.
Common Safety Challenges
Explosion protection for bins and silos must account for:
- Large internal volumes with confined construction
- Multiple connection points that create pathways for flame and pressure
- Varying product density, moisture, and dust characteristics
- Difficult access for installing devices such as sensors and vents
- Potential for propagation to connected conveyors and bucket elevators
These challenges make venting, suppression, and isolation essential to a complete protection strategy.
Boss Products’ Bin & Silo Protection Solutions
Boss Products designs engineered protection systems that prevent ignition, relieve pressure safely, and stop explosions from spreading to connected equipment.
Passive Protection:
Explosion venting:
Explosion Isolation Devices:
- Vigiflap® – Prevents flame and pressure from traveling through connected ductwork.
- Rotary Valve Isolation – Used at discharge to stop flame propagation into downstream conveying equipment; more commonly used on silos.
Active Protection:
- Installed at the silo top or inlet
- Detects a deflagration at its earliest state and extinguishes it before dangerous pressure develops
- Monitors bearing temperatures, aeration fans, or connected mechanical equipment
- Detects overheating or smoldering conditions before ignition occurs
Protect What You Store
- Keep your facility compliant and efficient.
Contact Boss Products to design a bin and silo explosion protection strategy that keeps your facility safe and operating with confidence.
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