Drying systems for tanks and silos: what they are and why they are important

When we talk about a washing and reclamation cycle that concerns large containers such as silos and tanks, used to store or transport substances of different nature, it is very important to take care of the last phase of the process with the utmost attention: drying, which allows to ensure maximum hygiene and total cleanliness of the container itself.

In general, the internal drying of cisterns, silos and  tanks is carried out with a hot air system, which avoids any risk of contamination within an environment already reclaimed with the previous washing.

How a drying system for tanks and silos works

To exclude the presence of contaminating particles inside the container, the air to be used for drying is first conveyed through a series of special filters and then heated.

In the drying process it is therefore of fundamental importance that the air flow is extremely consistent and powerful, and that a high and constant pressure is maintained, in order to allow the complete drying of the internal surface of the walls of a tank or container.

Washing and drying systems for tanks intended for food use

One of the most important reference sectors for tank washing is food, which requires the utmost attention in respect of hygiene and sanitation.

The systems designed to treat this type of structures must ensure perfect sterilization during the washing phase, and accurate and complete drying using carefully microfiltered hot air (F7/F9)

Washing of tanks intended to contain chemicals

According to the regulations, the washing system of tanks intended to contain chemical substances, flammable liquids and the like, must take place on separate lines from those specific for food silos.

Of course, also with regard to this type of tanks, normally used for the transport and storage of chemical products, it is very important both the accurate washing and the perfect drying.

OMZ manufactures and installs drying systems, with filtered hot air up to the maximum degree of F7/F9, required for food tanks.

Our systems provide 2 solutions:

1.With autonomous generator for the production of air at adjustable temperature, complete with

• Single-stage gas or oil burner
• Boiler with flue pipes, with air under pressure externally grazing the same
• Operating thermostat
• Safety thermostat
• Thermometer
• Flow rate: 6.000 mc / h
• Pressure: 1250 pa
• 5 HP electric motor

2. 2. Hot air generator, capable of delivering 3,500 cubic meters / h of air with ∆t of 55 ° C, with a head equal to a water column of 350 mm

The machine is complete with:

• 5 KW three-phase electric motor
• Centrifugal fan for a delivery of 3,500 cubic meters / h with a head of 350 mm of water column
• Suction filter from G5 to F9
• Stainless steel coil, steam powered, for heat exchange
• Delivery air temperature with ∆t of 55 ° C
• DN32 PN 15 valve, complete with pneumatic actuator, in steam supply
• Float condensate drain
• Electric control panel
• Air delivery Ø 300

The hot air in both cases is distributed with the aid of Ø 300mm insulated ducts, up to the devices for introducing hot air into the tank

Each point will be given by

• Flexible pipe for connection with the fixed distribution part
• Stainless steel device, for the introduction of hot air, complete with damper
• Balancer, to facilitate the operations of descent and ascent of the device from the tank

OMZ srl manufactures drying systems for all the needs of its customers, both for new systems and for existing ones.

For your needs, do not hesitate to contact us, we will be able to advise you on the best solution, in harmony with your washing system.