Bin Aeration Systems for Bulk Solids Flow Problems

Solve bridging, rat-holing, and poor material discharge using air-based flow aids. Bin aeration systems help fluidize bulk solids so they move consistently through silos, hoppers, and bins.

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Bin aeration system installed in silo cone

Why Bin Aeration Matters

Many bulk solids do not flow reliably due to compaction, moisture, particle shape, or storage time. Aeration introduces low-pressure air to reduce internal friction and help material behave more like a fluid.

Bridging

Material forms a stable arch and stops flowing.

Rat-Holing

Material flows only in a narrow channel.

Inconsistent Discharge

Flow surges or stops unpredictably.

Material Compaction

Stored material becomes dense and difficult to move.

How Bin Aeration Works

Aeration devices introduce controlled air into the material, reducing friction between particles and the silo wall. This allows material to flow more consistently and reduces the likelihood of blockage.

Air Pads (Continuous Aeration)

Gentle, Continuous Material Fluidization

Air pads provide a low-pressure, continuous flow of air along silo walls to keep material moving. They are ideal for fine powders and materials that tend to pack or stick.

Continuous Air Flow Fine Powders Low Maintenance

Creates a thin air film to reduce friction
Helps maintain steady material flow
Minimal moving parts
Energy efficient for continuous use

Best For: Cement, fly ash, lime, and other fine powders.

Air Pad Specifications

Air pads are designed for continuous aeration using low-pressure air. Exact specifications vary based on model and application, but typical ranges are shown below.

Operating Air Pressure

Typically 2 – 15 PSI (low pressure, high volume air)

Air Consumption

Low continuous air consumption depending on pad size and material

Construction

Flexible membrane with durable housing designed for long-term use in abrasive environments

Installation Location

Mounted along silo cone or hopper walls to promote mass flow

Temperature Range

Suitable for most ambient and moderate process temperatures (material dependent)

Maintenance

No moving parts — minimal maintenance required

Note: Proper spacing, number of pads, and air supply design are critical to performance. CMT can help determine the optimal layout based on your silo geometry and material.

Evasser (Intermittent Aeration)

Pulsed Air for Breaking Compacted Material

Evassers deliver short bursts of air to break up compacted material and restore flow. They are typically used where material does not respond to continuous aeration.

Pulsed Air Bridging Solutions High Impact

Breaks up hardened or compacted material
Used in conjunction with control timers or systems
More aggressive than air pads
Effective in difficult flow conditions

Best For: Sticky, compacted, or difficult materials that don’t flow easily.

Evasser Specifications

Evassers provide intermittent, high-impact air bursts to break up compacted material. They are typically used in more difficult applications where continuous aeration is not sufficient.