Oli Vibrators is helping bulk handling sites get the most out of existing silo infrastructure with a range of effective flow aids.
A lot of work goes into planning, engineering, and fabricating silos to ensure a consistent flow of material.
Over time the material characteristics or requirements can shift. In many cases, small changes won’t have a larger impact on the bulk mateprial process.
However, in some cases, even a slight change can lead to serious problems such as hang ups and ratholing.
Moisture content is one variable that can make or break the productivity of a silo. Certain materials like cement or flour will naturally begin to form blockages, restricting flow.
Oli Vibrators managing director Mark Thompson said restoring flow in a simple and safe way is vital.
“An outdated and unsafe practice to get material flowing again is to strike the silo or hopper with a hammer or heavy piece of wood, to shake up the blockages,” he said.
“However, this not only does damage to the asset but can also increase the chances of flow problems by creating misshaped areas in the silo.”
“If you’ve got bridging high up in a 30-tonne silo and then it’s suddenly let go, the forces could also jeopardise the structural integrity of the silo, potentially leading to a collapse.”
Oli Vibrators offers a safer and simpler alternative – industrial vibrators and flow aids. The company has almost 60 years of experience designing and supplying specialist vibrators for the mining, quarrying, mineral processing, grain, animal feed, food processing, waste management and construction sectors.
Working closely with its customers, Oli Vibrators’ team will find out the characteristics of the product being handled, including bulk density, explosive risk, hygiene requirements, whether it is hydroscopic, the vessel it is being stored in, and more.
With this information, its engineers will usually find a solution that will work for the customer within 24 to 48 hours.
Thompson said the company is a keen advocate for innovative research and development in a highly competitive global market.
“The company’s research and development department focuses on the development of cutting-edge technologies towards advanced solutions,” he said.
“Products smaller in size and lighter in weight, yet higher in performance and lower in energy consumption, are the tangible result of Oli’s constant commitment to offering the best deal on the market.”
Recently, the company has noted an increase in clients looking to improve energy conservation. Instead of using electric equipment, companies are looking for ways to run things pneumatically.
Oli Vibrators range of low-pressure fluidisers are ideal for this kind of application.
Thompson said the cement and concrete industry in particular can benefit from the technology as it minimises the need for pressurised air.
“There are considerable energy savings that can be had when less air needs to be pressurised,” he said.
“Low volume fluidisers also help to conserve air, so you don’t need to run an air compressor for up to six hours per shift to operate valves and other equipment.”
Oli Vibrator’s aim is to provide support ‘when you need it, where you need it’. To deliver on that, the Australian business keeps plenty of spares on hand if required and has a presence in every state in Australia.
Thompson said the company plans to continue growing, especially when it comes to providing solutions for emerging industries.
“Silos are just one use case for fluidisers and flow aids,” he said. “For example, the recycling market handles materials that have a constantly changing characteristics.”
“We are committed to servicing any industry that relies on a consistent flow of material.”
