Silos are among the most critical assets in mining, manufacturing, and agricultural operations, forming the core infrastructure for storing bulk materials and ensuring operational efficiency. Silos originated in the 18th century as simple wooden or earthen pits designed to store grain, protecting it from pests and spoilage. As agriculture and industry grew, the limitations of wood – prone to fire, rot, and pests – led to the adoption of concrete in the late 19th century. The first concrete silos emerged in the 1890s. Their durability, fire resistance, and capacity to handle larger quantities revolutionized storage.
"A neglected silo is a ticking clock"
says Wayne Van Der Westhuizen, Managing director of Solvocore.
Yet, like any other structure, silos are subject to wear and
degradation over time. At Solvocore, we offer repair, rehabilitation, and – if necessary – demolition services for silos. “A neglected silo is a ticking clock,” says Wayne van der Westhuizen, director of Solvocore. “The longer repairs are delayed, the higher the cost implications. It’s not just about materials; it’s about safety and downtime.”
The Hidden Costs of Delaying Repairs
Engineers and industry professionals know that downtime is a cost no operation can afford. However, the real expense often lies in underestimating the rate of structural degradation. Minor problems can escalate into major compromises if left untreated. Van der Westhuizen emphasizes: “Early intervention is key. A repair job today might cost a fraction of what it would three to five years later. Delays compound the structural, financial, and safety risks.”
At Solvocore, our expertise spans the full lifecycle of silos. From inspections and diagnostics to repairs and safe demolition, our goal is to extend the life of these critical assets and ensure performance meets operational demands.
Rehabilitation in Action
One of our major successes involved a silo at a major mining operation that had suffered years of neglect. The structure showed severe spalling, exposed rebar, and cracking. Using advanced diagnostic techniques, including ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and ultrasonic testing, our team pinpointed the areas needing intervention without compromising the rest of the structure.
Through concrete repairs and protective coatings, we restored the silo to safety standards – all while minimizing downtime. “Every day saved on repairs is a day gained in production” Van der Westhuizen explains.
Modifications of Structures
Modifications to concrete silos are often carried out to incorporate new technologies, support mining expansion, and meet increased load demands. These upgrades include enhancing storage capacity to handle larger material volumes. The process uses state-of-the-art concrete cutting equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency.
Solvocore has provided a range of services to ensure the structural performance of concrete silos, including:
• Structural condition assessments using GPR and ultrasound scanning.
• Concrete repairs for cracks, spalling, and damage.
• Concrete ingress protection through surface impregnation and coatings.
• Strengthening silos to enhance bearing capacity.
• Waterproofing and internal cleaning for long-term durability.
• Internal lining to prevent erosion and protect interiors.
• Silo modifications, including openings for feed conveyors and hopper replacement.
These services help silos remain durable, functional, and adaptable to evolving operational demands.
Demolition is a last resort, but when it's needed, it must be done safely and efficiently" says Van Der Westhuizen
When Repairs Aren’t Enough: Safe Demolition
Solvocore’s team ensures minimal disruption to operations and recovers as much value from the process as possible. Whether it involves carefully engineered plans, often non-explosive or manual dismantling in high-risk areas, each step is guided by a dependable engineering time.
