Finding Long-lasting Industrial Silo Coatings

Silos and dry bulk storage tanks need to be resistant to damage, and shouldn’t require much maintenance. Accomplishing this means making sure they can stand up to corrosion, abrasion, and chemicals. Corrosion is the primary issue, because it can shorten a tank’s lifespan and make the contents vulnerable to contamination. Abrasion wears on the tank wall, and this can hamper the flow of product out of the tank. If the contents being stored are dry bulk chemicals, they will cause not only abrasion but also corrosion. How does one protect silos from these types of damage? 

High-Performance Silo Protection

The best way to protect a silo from harm is with durable coating that is made to withstand all forms of damage to the tank. Both the inside and the outside of a storage tank have a coating, and today’s high-tech coatings offer sound protection against abrasion and corrosion. High-performance coatings protect against chemical damage, as well as other issues, including extreme temperature fluctuations. These coatings must be slick, to ensure smooth passage of the contents out of the tank, with very little residue left behind.

Why Robust Coating for Silo Structures is Necessary

Most tanks are made of either carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or concrete. Regardless of the material from which they are made, they require coatings to preserve their structural integrity. A sturdy coating will protect the contents of the silo from moisture, UV light, and other damaging environmental factors. The type of coating that is required will depend on the specifications of the silo and its contents, so it’s important for the silo’s owner to understand different types of coating, in order to make an informed decision. An improperly coated silo will be prone to issues like corrosion, flaking, cracking, leaks, and mold growth.

Advanced Silo Coating Technologies

There are many different types of coatings, suitable for a wide range of applications. There are glass fused-to-steel coatings, high heat coatings, cold weather coatings, and coatings to stand up to high acidity in the tank’s contents. The most technologically advanced coatings are made of epoxy, which can be applied electrostatically or in powder or liquid form. Epoxy coatings, once applied and cured, are tough enough to bend without breaking or tearing. Some epoxy coatings are combined with urethane topcoats, to offer the exterior of the tank protection from the elements. Polyurethane coatings are often used inside a silo or tank, if food is to be stored there, and sometimes silo coatings are made from silicone. Coatings come in a variety of price points, as well, which must be considered along with all of the other factors.

Reliable Silo Coating Materials

The most reliable silo coating is carefully applied and thermally cured. The best type of material to choose depends on the material from which the silo is made, as well as the materials the silo will contain.

• High build epoxy is good for storing acids and corrosive chemicals, and can be used on metal and concrete.
• Polyurethane is non-toxic, which makes it an ideal option for storing food products, and it’s resistant to moisture, abrasion, and corrosion.
• Silicone coating can withstand temperature extremes, and offers protection from chemicals and UV radiation.
• Ceramic coating is a good option for high temperature silos that handle cement or asphalt, because it is abrasion resistant and offers thermal protection.
• Zinc-rich coating works well for silos in harsh environments, because it provides sacrificial protection against corrosion.

Ensuring Silo Coating Longevity

Of course, applying silo coating is not the end of taking care of a silo. If the surface was properly prepared, the coating has been applied properly and is a good quality coating, the coating should last for several years. It should be inspected routinely, though, to catch any issues early. Regular maintenance is important for the safety, productivity, and operation of a silo, too, and neglecting a silo can lead to expensive repairs. Once it has been coated, proper maintenance ensures the material will flow consistently, the risk of contamination will be negligible, the silo will remain in compliance with OSHA, NFPA, and environmental standards, and the lifespan of the structural and mechanical components of the silo will be extended. Set a comprehensive schedule, including daily visual inspections, monthly and quarterly checks, and thorough cleaning and evaluation annually.

Finding a Vendor with Industrial Silo Coating Expertise

Just as important as choosing the right silo coating materials and keeping up with maintenance, however, is finding the right vendor. Look for companies with experience, who offer high quality coatings and understand the ins and outs of bulk storage. Ask questions about how long the company has been in business, its quality control measures, and the markets in which it operates. Learn as much as you can about the company’s reputation, and find out whether or not the vendor is third party accredited, before you make your decision.

Look to Michigan Specialty Coatings for Durable Silo Coating Solutions, Floor Coatings, and More

If you need tank coating in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, or Indiana, Michigan Specialty Coating provides resurfacing services and robust coating for silo structures to provide longevity to your equipment. Founded in 2005, MSC is a locally owned company that has grown rapidly over the past 20 years. Continually striving to maintain best practices in the field, MSC exceeds industry standards for preparation and installation processes, as well as ensuring that our products are the best possible options for the environment. Safety training is taken very seriously, and each of our crew members is regularly trained in OSHA-10, as well as in our continuous education program, MSC University. We provide services that include comprehensive industrial and commercial painting and flooring services, as well as silo, tank, and wall coating. Michigan Specialty Coating is here to provide coating for silo structures, and a wide range of other services to ensure your facilities have everything necessary to remain cost-effective and well-protected. Contact us for more information.