The first is that the silo may not be designed properly in order to provide mass flow characteristics. Many silos experience what is known as core flow discharge, also known in the industry as rat hole or funnel flow. This is when the centre of the silo discharges first before the sides. The second reason for silo problems with organic products is moisture. This is why the spring and fall seasons play a major role in silo problems.
Delivery trucks use on-board compressors to convey the product into the silo.
The spring and fall are wet seasons and occasionally it rains during the filling operation. When the truck conveys to the silo it also compresses the wet ambient air and therefore blows a great deal of water into the silo. The spring and fall are also seasons of great temperature change which also plays an important role in the problems that can occur. The wet compressed air is heated by the blower and once inside the silo will rise to the top where it comes in contact with the silo ceiling and condenses into water. Most silo filling procedures take place during daylight hours.