Wen Peng and Zhu Xiaosheng, Henan SRON Silo Engineering, provide a comparative analysis of concrete silos and welded steel silos.
Choosing the right storage solution for materials like grain, cement, or industrial products is not simple. Is it better to prioritise upfront savings and speed, or invest in long-term durability? This article provides a comparative analysis of concrete silos and welded steel silos in terms of construction characteristics, structural systems, economic performance, and other relevant factors. It aims to offer a reference for selecting the most suitable silo type.
Construction characteristics
Basic requirements
Welded steel silos are made from high-quality, high-strength structural steel, which is strong, durable, and allows for thin wall panels. This results in a lightweight structure with low foundation requirements. In contrast, reinforced concrete silos are built using steel bars, cement, and sandstone. These silos are much heavier, requiring more substantial foundations and higher foundation costs.
Structural system
Welded steel silos are constructed by welding high-strength structural steel. This method is easy to operate, quick to build, and allows for precise quality control. Multiple ring bars and vertical bars are used inside and outside the silo to form a rigid frame with high bearing capacity.
Reinforced concrete silos are built using slide-form construction, which involves a series of processes, such as concrete casting and formwork construction. The construction is difficult with high technical requirements, and a complex construction process, requiring a high level of professionalism, long construction periods, and high construction and labour costs.
Construction period
The construction process for concrete silos is more complicated and requires detailed planning to ensure the firmness and stability of the structure. The time needed for concrete casting and solidification is lengthy. In contrast, welded steel silos are welded structures, which significantly shorten the construction time – about 1/4 – 1/3 of the time required for reinforced concrete silos of the same storage capacity. This not only saves time but also reduces construction costs, offering clear advantages for customers looking to generate economic benefits sooner.
Sealing performance, leak-proof, and moisture-proof
Welded steel silos offer excellent airtightness, leak-proof, and waterproof properties. The silo's walls are welded together, providing superior sealing and moisture-proof performance, which helps protect stored materials from water and moisture. In comparison, concrete silos, while thick and offering some insulation against heat and moisture, are less effective in terms of water resistance and moisture-proofing.
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