SILO DISTRIBUTION REPLACEMENT

IA Mechanical was contracted to replace the distribution system in a cement silo. The existing system consisting of screw conveyors were to be replaced with an updated air slide system. The air slide will enable smooth, efficient, low-maintenance distribution of bulk material. IA Mechanical team has a wide range of experience at providing customized mechanical solutions to industrial facilities and their equipment.

A cement plant in the Midwest was looking to have their existing screw conveyor silo distribution system upgraded with an air slide system. This new distribution system would allow for an energy-efficient, low-maintenance flow of their product. Air slides have an advantage of having no moving parts, so they are often considered to be economical, durable and low-wear, and environmentally-friendly solutions. Regardless, different conveyor systems can be selected based on each client’s needs and equipment at hand.

IA Mechanical incorporated a combination of different access methods to deliver the services effectively. Crane and manlift support were utilized to safely remove equipment parts during the demolition and hoist up the new material distribution structure for installation. Scaffolding systems were built on the silo roof to allow the crew to perform installation work.

The crew first performed demolition of existing distribution system, including its mechanical parts, piping and supports, and electrical components. The alleviator, chutes, flanges, dust collector and ducting were removed, as well as the screw conveyors, supports, fans, gate valves, etc. IA Mechanical disassembled and removed existing electrical parts, such as the equipment MCC, conduit, instrumentations, and wiring. The area was cleared and prepared for the new system.

IA Mechanical then proceeded to install the new filter receiver unit, the air slide units, related supports, chutes, piping, and ducting. They installed the new blower, fan, and control valves. Some structural work was performed to replace existing building diagonal bracings and beams. Some duct/pipe penetrations were repaired and some were installed anew and waterproofed. The crew distributed power to the new equipment and instrumentations, and installed new electrical wiring. To set up automation and control system, IA Mechanical performed PLC programming, integrated new controls to the existing system, and supplied components to provide adequate capacity for any future expansion.

The replacement services were completed successfully and on time, leaving the client prepared to operate the new system self-sufficiently. At IA Mechanical, we are concerned with ensuring effective everyday functionality of industrial plants and their infrastructure. We are equipped with a large team of experienced engineers and necessary technologies to help clients design, construct, and install custom components and equipment to ensure seamless operation of their facility.