A new approach to silo storage

InBulk Technologies’ new storage system combines a storage silo with a pneumatic transfer system

International logistic specialists InterBulk Group plc have launched a brand new storage system set to revolutionise dry bulk operations across the world.  

The innovative ISO-Silo is both a storage silo and a pneumatic transfer system combined into one. Developed by specialists at InBulk Technologies, the Group’s technology division, the flexible design ensures swift mobilisation and demobilisation without the need for major installation.

Available in both 30ft and 40ft dimensions, the ISO-Silo provides low-cost on-site storage for both powder and granular products. This includes materials that require a high degree of hygiene, such as those used in the manufacture of chemicals, minerals and food, as well as products related to the oil-field and construction industry.

Unlike conventional silos, the InBulk ISO-Silo requires no foundations or planning consent when installed – making it suitable when product demand is high and time is precious.

Designed with efficiency and convenience in mind, the new silo can be either integrated with existing facility control systems or controlled remotely. Mounted on a solid steel base, only three major lifts are required to install the ISO-Silo on site.

Once situated in a vertical position, connecting the silo to a single-phase electrical supply, air supply and discharge pipeline will ensure the silo is fully operational. It can then be filled via the inlet pipe using an InterBulk ISO-Veyor or conventional road tanker. To make loading as easy as possible, the inlet pipe is supplied with a Unicone coupling and automated butterfly valve.

Unlike many conventional fixed silos, there is no need to access the top of the InterBulk ISO-Silo. This is because all equipment and controls are located at ground level greatly improving on-site health and safety. The silo’s integral plc system also guarantees filling can take place with just one easy click.

Thanks to fitted load-cells, the ISO–Silo eliminates the need for on-site weighbridges. At all times quantities conveyed are measured, giving the operator accurate control of both the filling and discharge cycles. Level probes can also be fitted at the highest acceptable level to let the truck operator know when the silo is full.

Just like InterBulk’s ISO-Veyor, which shares the same innovative technology, the ISO-Silo also renders cumbersome tipping trailers and platforms obsolete.

In addition, the silo comes with a pioneering ‘self-cleaning’ filter. Roughly a third of the size of a conventional filter, cleaning takes place under pressure during truck unloading.

Once the InBulk Silo has been filled, it can safely be used for medium-term storage. If the contents need to be moved, the silo can easily be pressurised to become a pneumatic conveying system capable of carrying materials to their point of use.        

Incorporating dense-phase technology, any product carried through the conveying cycle is automatically protected against excessive wear and tear. For those concerned with speed, the ISO-Silo is capable of moving up to 50 tonnes of product per hour over 100 metres – making it a fast and effective alternative to full pneumatic conveying systems which require much greater investment.

The ISO-Silo is also easy to transport. Built within a standard ISO frame, it comes complete with a pre-cast concrete base in two sections. This secures the unit in place allowing transportation by conventional road trailers. Designed with a large surface area, the base reduces ground load and prevents the silo overturning in the wind.

The ISO-Silo qualifies as multi-modal equipment in accordance with transport regulations of ISO containers. The InBulk silo also conforms to both CSC and ISO regulations for multi-modal transportation when empty. This allows for robust, rapid and easy deployment between sites, as and when the silo is required.

Since its launch in August 2011 the InterBulk ISO-Silo has gained an army of followers throughout the logistics industry, including high-profile companies such as polycarbonate specialists Bayer MaterialScience, who recently installed ISO-Silos at their Bayer Integrated Site Shanghai in Caojing, China. The new InterBulk silos will be used to transport, store and convey polycarbonates for the global corporation in a five-year contract worth $5million (USD).

The deal has helped Bayer MaterialScience transform their dry storage operations from bags to bulk – completely eliminating the need for a packaging plant and expensive fixed infrastructures.

As the new ISO-Silo can be bought as a capital sale, lease rental or form part of a logistic service contract, other corporations are adopting InterBulk’s new technology.

By transforming the design and function of silo storage, InterBulk have created a new form of dry bulk storage suitable for 21st century requirements.

The ISO-Silo offers businesses a flexible and efficient form of storage and pneumatic transfer, which can not only reduce costs but also increase response times.

With a multitude of applications covering a wide variety of materials, the ISO-Silo is a cost-effective alternative to full pneumatic systems that require expensive fixed infrastructure.