Silo cleaning pumps: everything you need to know

Silos are structures used to store powdered or granular materials, such as grains, minerals and chemicals. However, due to the nature of the materials stored, these structures can be subject to contamination and accumulation of residues. Thorough and frequent cleaning not only helps to maintain the quality of the stored materials, but also helps to prolong the life of the silos themselves, reducing the need for costly maintenance and repair.

Furthermore, keeping silos clean is an essential requirement to comply with safety and hygiene regulations, preventing potential penalties and ensuring a safe working environment for operators.

With this article, we at Hawk will take an overview of the most suitable pumps for this activity.

How to choose the right pump for silo cleaning

Choosing the right pump for silo cleaning requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure that the equipment is suitable for the specific needs of the application. Firstly, it is essential that the pump is made of materials that are compatible with aggressive fluids and chemicals, as cleaning processes are often carried out with strongly alkaline or acidic detergents, solvents and other corrosive substances. Materials such as 316L stainless steel or Ecobrass are particularly suitable, as they are designed to withstand corrosive chemicals without long-term problems.

In addition, it is essential to choose a pump that offers high pressure, which is essential to effectively remove debris and contaminants from the internal surfaces of the silo. Adequate pressure ensures thorough and fast cleaning, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.

Finally, the chosen pump must provide adequate capacity to maintain a constant and powerful flow throughout the entire cleaning process. A pump with insufficient capacity may not be able to perform effective cleaning, causing delays and potential operational problems.

Hawk's best pumps for cleaning silos

When it comes to choosing the best pumps for silo cleaning, Hawk offers several excellent options, as it has an extensive catalogue of pumps for the chemical industry.

Among the top solutions is the NMT Stainless Steel Chemical Series, capable of working at a maximum pressure of 200 bar and a water temperature of up to 85°C (185°F). This piston pump is designed in 316L stainless steel and is the perfect solution for working with aggressive chemicals and salt water.

Another highly reliable model is the MXT Stainless Steel Chemical Series. Capable of working with flow rates from 70 to 100 lpm, this pump guarantees effective and fast cleaning of large silos. It is also made of 316L stainless steel.

Finally, for those looking for a model that is more economical than stainless steel, but capable of working with aggressive fluids, the ideal solution is the NMT Chemical Series. This pump is capable of working at a maximum pressure of 200 bar and a water temperature of up to 65°C (149°F).

Conclusions and the role of Hawk

In conclusion, choosing the right pump for silo cleaning is crucial to maintaining high standards of quality and safety. We at Hawk are leaders in the piston pump industry and understand the importance of providing reliable, high-quality solutions.

With a wide range of products and established expertise, we are ready to support you in choosing the perfect pump to ensure effective and safe cleaning of your silos. Don't hesitate to contact us for personalised advice and to find out how we can help you optimise your cleaning operations.