ARS | Publication request: MANAGING AND DESIGNING BUNKER AND TRENCH SILOS

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Experiment Station
Publication Acceptance Date: January 20, 2004
Publication Date: February 15, 2004
Citation: Holmes, B.J., Muck, R.E. 2004. Managing and designing bunker and trench silos. AED43. Ames, IA:Midwest Plan Service.

Technical Abstract: This publication reviews some of the general concepts involved in choosing and using bunker and trench silos, collectively called horizontal silos. It discusses the management techniques and design principles that can help a producer use a horizontal silo to its maximum potential. Losses in horizontal silos come from several sources including handling losses during filling and unloading, seepage from the silo, spoilage from aerobic microorganisms. To minimize losses, producers need to give careful attention to: organizing and managing the silo area; filling, packing and covering the silo; and unloading silo. The sizing of a silo will be affected by the daily silage needs, the removal rate, and practical minimum and maximum dimensions for efficient operation. An example worksheet provides a step-by-step procedure for calculating the dimensions for a horizontal silo