The use of storage bins or silos as a storage space is often required in the mineral processing system. Bulk materials must be stored for a shorter or longer period of time in order to:
- uniform flow of material that is processed continuously and delivered intermittently, e.g. by truck or loader
- temporary storage with the aim of further distribution
- keeping the necessary supplies
Capacity is determined based on the difference between delivery capacity and consumption capacity. During discharge, the maximum use of gravitational force is strived for. Therefore, it is necessary that the internal design, the surface of the walls and the outlets be adapted to the nature of the material to be stored.
The difference between a silo and a storage bin is defined by the ratio of its smaller dimension of the upper opening and height.