Th e Conical Shape of a Grain Bin – An Engineering Marvel

Still, it’s worth thinking about from a practical standpoint. For instance, you may intuitively know that “round” is a better grain bin shape; but have you ever wondered exactly why? Of course, a round grain bin is easier to clean out and simple to empty when it doesn’t have corners that need to be shoveled and swept.

Do you know what shape has the maximum holding capacity per unit of building material used in its construction? The light, thin metal walls of conical grain bins have truly amazing weight holding ability. The conical shape allows the metal buildings to contain tremendous weight because contents are distributed evenly. The conical structure is the best shape for ventilation. Warm and cold air currents inside the bin are distributed evenly through the grain mass.

A round or conical grain bin can be quickly loaded through a top center portal without the additional conveyors and handling equipment required inside a rectangular or square structure. When loading and unloading inside a building, two conveying systems are required, and gravity assists of the grain movement are not obtainable. The conical grain bin with a hopper bottom can be quickly unloaded with gravity’s assistance to move the grain into a transport vehicle.

https://www.wallgrain.com/grain-bins/the-conicalshape-of-a-grain-bin-an-engineering-marvel/