In today’s [July 9, 2025] global agri-food industry, the demand for safe, efficient, and sustainable grain storage solutions is more critical than ever. With growing environmental awareness and supply chain complexity, manufacturers are seeking long-lasting storage systems that protect grain quality, reduce maintenance costs, and minimise environmental impact. At Silos Spain, we aim to address these challenges through the engineering and manufacturing of next-generation steel silos, designed with both performance and sustainability in mind.
Sustainability is not just about reducing emissions — it’s about designing systems that last longer, perform better, and reduce the need for replacement. Silos should be engineered to extend service life, enhance grain preservation, and simplify maintenance.
Innovations
An example of a key innovation is ProMag, an advanced metal coating composed of aluminum, zinc, and magnesium. Compared to traditional galvanized steel, ProMag provides over 10 times better corrosion resistance, according to ISO 9223. It also uses less zinc than conventional coatings, making it an environmentally responsible choice without sacrificing performance. This resistance to harsh environments extends the lifespan of our silos dramatically, reducing long-term maintenance and material waste.
In addition, the silos are manufactured using high-yield strength steel, ranging from 450 MPa in the wall sheets to 600 MPa in the reinforcements. This enhances structural performance, reduces the overall weight of the installation, and facilitates both transport and on-site assembly.
Extending the life of a grain silo
Extending the operational life of a grain silo is essential in reducing both capital expenditure and the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and transportation.
Additional features that contribute to long-term performance include:
*Smooth wave design
*Roof protection systems
*Modular and bolted construction
*Customisable grain handling systems
Steel Silos
Steel silos play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of raw materials used in food and animal feed production. Improper storage can lead to spoilage, contamination, or even health hazards due to mold and pests. It’s important to design with hygiene and traceability in mind.
Smooth surface designs and optimised ventilation systems prevent moisture buildup and enable easy cleaning. Furthermore, all access and maintenance systems are ergonomically designed and comply with the UNE-EN ISO 14122-2 safety standard, protecting both the product and the operator.
Our grain handling and storage solutions meet key European directives related to machinery safety, ATEX (explosive atmospheres), electromagnetic compatibility, and low voltage systems.
An era of efficiency and sustainability
In an era where efficiency and sustainability go hand in hand, silo manufacturers must rise to the occasion. Every silo we build is a long-term investment — for the clients, for the food supply chain, and for the planet.
By choosing high-quality materials, adopting robust engineering standards, and embracing innovative coatings like ProMag, you can ensure that silos remain functional and safe for decades. This not only protects the economic value of stored grain but also contributes to more sustainable and resilient food and feed production systems.
Sustainability as a pillar of food supply chain resilience
Sustainable silo manufacturing contributes directly to the resilience of food systems. By reducing the frequency of replacement and minimising material degradation, silos built with advanced coatings like ProMag reduce both operational costs and environmental footprint. This is especially vital in regions with harsh climates or limited maintenance infrastructure.
Moreover, efficient silos reduce post-harvest losses, helping to ensure food security and reduce waste across the supply chain. In the context of global food demand, these advantages play a crucial role in meeting sustainability targets such as those outlined in the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Comparative analysis: Traditional galvanized steel vs. ProMag-coated steel
Traditional galvanized steel silos, though widely used, present limitations in terms of corrosion resistance and service life. Environmental stressors such as humidity, salinity, and extreme temperatures can quickly degrade conventional coatings, resulting in higher maintenance costs and eventual structural failure.
ProMag-coated steel, by contrast, offers a revolutionary leap forward. Thanks to its aluminum-magnesium-zinc alloy, ProMag outperforms galvanized coatings by an order of magnitude, even in coastal or high-humidity environments. This ensures the structural integrity of silos for decades, with far fewer interventions required. The reduction in zinc content also makes ProMag a more environmentally sound option, reducing the ecological footprint associated with mining and galvanizing processes.
Real-World Impact: Case Studies from the Field
In Panama, a client needed to store grain under highly humid tropical conditions, which caused rapid degradation of traditional silos due to corrosion and constant maintenance needs. To address this, Silos Spain implemented a system using ProMag-coated steel and high-strength reinforcements. This solution is projected to reduce maintenance costs by up to 40% within the first three years. Additionally, grain quality has improved significantly thanks to the silo’s smooth internal geometry and optimized aeration system.
In Bolivia, the goal was to ensure optimal preservation of soybean quality during storage, a process often threatened by breakage, mold, and insect infestation. The solution was a new facility with 60,000 tons of storage capacity, integrating advanced systems for handling, ventilation, drying, and temperature control. These features enhance operational efficiency and reduce product losses, contributing to long-term sustainability.
In Romania, the challenge was to develop a grain storage facility capable of withstanding seismic activity and extreme winter conditions. Silos Spain provided structurally reinforced silos and support equipment designed for reliable performance in adverse environments. Safe access systems, continuous grain flow mechanisms, and controlled ventilation ensure year-round operability and efficient grain management.
In Spain, a leading feed mill aimed to expand its storage capacity and optimize the handling of high-value raw materials such as soybean meal. The commissioned facility includes reinforced silos with smooth-wall linings to facilitate complete discharge and reduce maintenance. Automated loading and unloading systems help ensure a steady material flow, minimizing downtime and improving overall productivity.
In Sri Lanka, one of the country’s premium rice producers sought to improve the preservation of paddy rice during storage. The solution included compact hopper silos with thermal insulation and advanced ventilation systems, minimizing grain damage and ensuring stable storage conditions throughout the year.
Looking Ahead: Digitalization and Smart Storage
Silos Spain is exploring digital tools to further optimise grain storage. Sensor integration for temperature, humidity, and grain level monitoring is under development, enabling predictive maintenance and remote management. These smart systems aim to provide operators with real-time insights and improve overall storage efficiency while reducing the need for manual checks.
Digitalization also supports traceability — a growing requirement in both the food and feed industries. Being able to track each batch of stored grain and monitor conditions in real time enhances safety and quality assurance, offering a competitive advantage in highly regulated markets.
With a deep respect for engineering tradition and a forward-thinking approach, silo manufacturers should lead the way, combining sustainability, durability, and innovation for a better food future.
By-Silos Spain
Source: Email/GFMM
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