NT SERVICE GMBH

Silo cleaning

NT Service GmbH is the leading company in the field of silo cleaning and silo fault clearance. We maintain 6 service locations with over 20 internal and external employees specifically for our core business.

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Silo cleaning -
quick and professional

NT Service GmbH attaches great importance to safety and quality in silo cleaning. All employees work under strict safety regulations, both for silo cleaning and tank welding technology. Supervision by the managing director and technical management at each site ensures a flawless service with no unexpected problems for the customer. The team leaders in the operations teams are qualified and guarantee silo cleaning at the highest level.

Our company is BG-approved, TÜV-certified and REFA-audited, which gives the customer unrestricted confidence. The modern silo suction technology contributes to efficient silo cleaning, supported by high-quality machines and equipment.

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Master company in
silo cleaning

We are a master craftsman’s business with outstanding core competencies and very meaningful references in the following areas:

Silo cleaning with vacuum suction technology

The “vacuum suction technology silo” is an advanced method for silo cleaning. NT Service GmbH offers the following specialized work among the numerous sub-areas of silo cleaning:

Silo vacuuming or vacuuming out silos
Suck flour or suck out flour silo
Vacuum out silo truck
Vacuum brown coal dust or vacuum BKS
Silo suppression suction
and much more

However, there is much more to silo vacuuming than meets the eye. The professional personnel only operate capable, safety-tested equipment and machines, which contributes massively to safety when vacuuming silos and ultimately also to the company’s reliability. It should also be mentioned that monitoring is carried out through regular inspections, which makes NT Service GmbH all the more a capable company.

Silo cleaning using rope work technology

One focus of our work is silo cleaning. In 98% of cases, we use rope work technology with FISAT conformity as an access method. We work in various assembly operations throughout the German-speaking and European region. Our company carries out around 240 different silo cleanings every year (as of 2013).

With over 120 cement silos under our care each year, we are one of the most experienced specialist cleaning companies in Germany. All work we carry out is carefully documented and certified. The customer can therefore also use this cleaning certificate as a quality feature for their own competitive advantage in tenders.

Our field of activity includes storage silos in which the following materials are stored and processed: cement, lignite, potash, plastics, binding agents, food raw materials and chemicals for industry.

Logging your silo cleaning

We will be happy to issue you with a report and certificate for every service carried out so that you can provide business partners and authorities with proof of the condition of your systems at any time and also remind them of the next regular cleaning.

On request, we also offer comprehensive video documentation for every silo cleaning, which you can use to follow our work audiovisually and thus gain a personal impression of the condition of your tanks and containers.

For data protection reasons, we are unable to name numerous other customer-specific protocols. Identifying specific and non-specific hazards in advance helps to prevent the loss of life and property in the event of an emergency. Every order situation is unique.

It is therefore important to document work mechanisms and details of work procedures precisely. In this way, we can ensure that every work process is incorporated into company-specific improvement processes.

Smooth working thanks to ready-to-use silos and tanks

Tanks and containers require regular cleaning and safety checks in order to avoid contamination of any kind, which can quickly lead to a loss in value of the stored goods.

Raw materials for food production are particularly susceptible to contamination and even pest infestation. Thorough silo cleaning in the food industry can make or break the economic success of an entire company.

When we clean the inside of industrial silos, tanks and containers, you can always rely on experienced employees, state-of-the-art technology and equipment as well as the highest safety and hygiene standards.

Silo assembly and welding technology on silo systems

NT Service GmbH relies on innovative welding techniques to contribute to the simplicity of silo debottlenecking and the safety of employees and customers. The company deliberately dispenses with cost-intensive scaffolding and instead works exclusively with ropes for tank welding technology. This not only enables efficient working methods, but also minimizes potential hazards.

NT Service GmbH is aware of the challenges faced by silo facilities and therefore offers a variety of welding techniques to repair corrosion, cracks, leaking seams and other damage. These techniques are also suitable for various applications, including storage tanks, oil pans, bulk storage tanks and cast iron housings.

NT Service GmbH’s most common methods include gas welding, manual arc welding, MAG/MIG gas-shielded arc welding and tungsten-shielded arc welding. The company guarantees high quality and safety in its work through professional thermal and chemical tank repairs. Customers receive detailed documentation of the welding work carried out on request.

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If you are looking for a reliable partner for the maintenance and cleaning of your silo systems, NT Service GmbH is the right address for you.

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Rechtliche Informationen zur Siloreinigung

Since the “field to plate” principle enshrined in EU hygiene law came into force, specifically Regulation (EC) No. 178/2002 and (EC) No. 852/2004, every businessperson who handles food is responsible for food safety. This also applies to commercial transport logistics companies, which are involved in several aspects of the food and feed chain, from the transport of agricultural raw materials to the transport of liquid, granulated and powdered food in food tanks and silo vehicles to temperature-controlled transport in refrigerated box vehicles and palletized dry goods.

Together with TRANSFRIGOROUTEDEUTSCHLAND (TD) e.V., the Federal Association of Freight Transport, Logistics and Disposal (BGL) e.V. has therefore drawn up a guideline for good hygiene practice during transport for food logistics companies in coordination with the federal states. Hygiene guidelines are an instrument created by the legislature for self-regulation of the economy on the basis of the Food Hygiene Regulations (EC) No. 852/2004. They are association recommendations – agreed with the authorities – on how companies can meet their legal hygiene requirements. They are therefore comparable to the technical rules of DIN and can be used by the courts to interpret the regulations.

The creation of the hygiene guidelines was not easy, as the enormous range of logistics services and the correspondingly wide range of vehicles used in practice had to be taken into account. At the beginning of March 2012, the national official review process was completed and the guidelines were notified to the European Commission.

When treating flour silos with insecticides, only agents containing the active ingredient pyrethrum may be used. This is stipulated by the Plant Protection Act. Bakers who occasionally carry out pest control on a small scale in their business must comply with the applicable legal regulations. If they use pesticides (biocides) in an empty flour silo, the Plant Protection Act applies. This is because flour is, by definition, a plant product and the silo is its storage container. Insecticidal products used in the field of plant and stored product protection must be approved by the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL). The current list of plant protection products only lists agents containing the active ingredient pyrethrum (also known as pyrethrins) for stored product protection. This means that only these agents may be used in the silo itself. Anyone who uses agents containing other active ingredients to treat their flour silo with insecticides is violating applicable law. The active ingredient dichlorvos, which was previously used to protect stored goods, has been banned in plant protection for years. It must therefore no longer be detectable in any food or animal feed, writes the Food and Hospitality Industry Accident Insurance Association (BGN).

Industrial silo cleaning has been carried out since the beginning of the industrial age. The function of silo cleaning is to prevent negative influences on a silo system through cleaning measures. Structural safety also plays a major role in silo cleaning. As there were shortages of raw materials at the time, larger storage capacities had to be created. As silo systems outdoors are exposed to strong weather influences, hygroscopic materials were included in the respective production halls. Due to technical developments, however, it has been possible to protect silo systems from external weather influences using more modern temperature and control technologies as well as improved insulation materials. Today’s industrial plants have a considerable lack of space, so in many places silo and bulk material storage facilities are relocated outside. The problems of weather dynamics were solved well by technical insulation and trace heating.

In the 1960s to 1990s, silo cleaning measures were carried out by the respective companies themselves. Serious and fatal accidents were not uncommon. In these times, silo systems were entered using ropes or ladders. Similar to open-cast mining at the time. In the “modern” era from around 1995, the issue of accident prevention and occupational safety was increasingly brought into focus at the urging of the professional associations. So that today we have very good occupational safety structures. Additional quality factors and ISO certification ensure a good to very good standard in German industry. Silo cleaning measures are now carried out exclusively by professional and qualified companies. These companies work in silo systems in a focused and specialized manner. Good training and physical fitness are as essential as safety management organized by the employer. For this reason, a separate occupational health examination is required for people who enter a silo system.

The aim of silo cleaning is to minimize or completely eliminate damaging factors in the respective bulk goods. As a rule, silo cleaning is carried out regularly and, depending on experience, is integrated into fixed maintenance plans by the plant operator. It is not uncommon for silo cleaning measures to be carried out if damaging factors have already been identified in the product. The silo systems are then emptied of bad or contaminated product and the system is cleaned to a quality standard. Today’s quality standards in the food, feed or building materials industry help ensure that production companies can work with flawless products. A good example of this is the food industry, which specializes in allergy-free food. This branch of industry depends on quality-compliant and verifiable silo cleaning.

Silo external cleaning is the area where a silo system or bulk goods storage facility is cleaned from the outside. This necessity is justified from the point of view of food law. External silo cleaning of bulk goods storage facilities is also necessary from the point of view of the Operational Safety Ordinance. Mandatory recurring tests are carried out during external silo cleaning. This audit requirement is set out as follows.

Comprehensive Guide to Silo Cleaning and Industrial Cleaning

Understanding Silo Cleaning

Definition, Purpose, and Significance Silo cleaning refers to the process of cleaning silos, large containers used to store bulk materials such as grains, cement, or plastic granules. The primary purpose of silo cleaning is to remove residues, prevent contamination, and maintain the quality and safety of the stored materials. Regular cleaning is crucial to comply with hygiene regulations, prevent product damage, and enhance overall storage process efficiency.

Silo Cleaning Techniques Various techniques are employed for silo cleaning to ensure thorough and efficient removal of contaminants:

Vacuum Suction: This method uses powerful vacuum systems to remove dust, debris, and residues from silos.
Rope Access Techniques: Rope access enables workers to reach and clean hard-to-reach areas within silos.
High-Pressure Cleaning: High-pressure water jets are used to remove stubborn deposits and ensure a thorough clean.

Safety in Silo Cleaning

Risk Assessment, Safety Protocols, Training Safety is paramount in silo cleaning due to the confined spaces and potential hazards involved. Key safety measures include:

Risk Assessment: A thorough assessment of potential hazards before commencing any cleaning operation.
Safety Protocols: Implementing strict safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adequate ventilation, and emergency procedures.
Training: Providing comprehensive training to all personnel involved in silo cleaning to ensure they are aware of the risks and safety procedures.

Industrial Cleaning Services

Tank Cleaning, Sandblasting, Welding Industrial cleaning services encompass a wide range of activities to maintain and optimize industrial facilities:

Tank Cleaning: Specialized cleaning of tanks to remove contaminants and ensure operational efficiency.
Sandblasting: A surface preparation technique using abrasive materials to remove impurities and create a clean surface.
Welding: Welding and repair services to maintain the structural integrity of industrial equipment.

Specialized Cleaning Techniques

PFC/PFAS Decontamination, ATEX Operations, Vacuum Suction Certain cleaning tasks require specialized techniques to address unique challenges:

PFC/PFAS Decontamination: Removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from contaminated areas using advanced decontamination methods.
ATEX Operations: Cleaning in potentially explosive atmospheres, adhering to strict ATEX regulations.
Vacuum Suction: Efficient removal of hazardous and non-hazardous materials using advanced vacuum suction systems.

Equipment and Technology

Modern Equipment, Silo Suction Systems, Sandblasting Equipment The use of modern equipment is essential for efficient and effective cleaning:

Modern Equipment: Investing in high-quality equipment enhances cleaning efficiency and safety.
Silo Suction Systems: Specialized equipment designed for vacuum cleaning of silos.
Sandblasting Equipment: Advanced sandblasting machines for precise surface preparation.

Compliance and Certifications

BG Certification, TÜV Certification, REFA Audits Adherence to industry standards and certifications is crucial for quality assurance:

BG Certification: Ensures compliance with occupational safety and health regulations.
TÜV Certification: Demonstrates adherence to quality and safety standards.
REFA Audits: Regular audits to maintain operational efficiency and identify areas for improvement.

Qualified Personnel

Certified Technicians, Disinfectants, Specialized Training A skilled workforce is essential for successful silo cleaning:

Certified Technicians: Employment of certified technicians with specialized training in industrial cleaning.
Disinfectants: Use of trained disinfectants to ensure hygienic cleaning, especially in food processing industries.
Specialized Training: Continuous training to keep employees updated on the latest cleaning techniques and safety procedures.

Case Studies and Success Stories

Industry Examples, Key Achievements, Customer Testimonials Real-world examples highlight the expertise and capabilities of the company:

Industry Examples: Demonstrating successful cleaning projects in various industries.
Key Achievements: Showcasing significant accomplishments and milestones.
Customer Testimonials: Sharing positive feedback from satisfied clients.

Silo Installation and Welding Techniques

Methods, Safety, Documentation Proper installation and welding of silos are critical for their longevity and safety:

Methods: Employing efficient and safe methods for silo installation and welding.
Safety: Implementing rigorous safety measures to protect workers and equipment.
Documentation: Maintaining detailed records of all installation and welding activities.

Environmental and Safety Standards

EU Hygiene Regulations, Safety Protocols Adherence to environmental and safety standards is essential for responsible operations:

EU Hygiene Regulations: Compliance with EU hygiene regulations to ensure food safety and prevent contamination.
Safety Protocols: Implementing comprehensive safety protocols to protect workers and the environment.

Customer-Centric Approach

Customized Solutions, Transparent Communication, Reliability A customer-centric approach ensures that client needs are met:

Customized Solutions: Tailoring cleaning solutions to meet specific customer requirements.
Transparent Communication: Maintaining open and honest communication with clients throughout the process.
Reliability: Delivering consistent and reliable cleaning services.

Technical Inspections and Assessments

Silo Assessment, Wall Thickness Measurement Regular inspections and assessments are essential to maintain the integrity of silos:

Silo Assessment: Conducting thorough inspections to identify potential issues.
Wall Thickness Measurement: Measuring wall thickness to assess structural integrity.

Continuous Improvement and Innovation

Technological Advancements, Training Programs A commitment to continuous improvement drives innovation and enhances service quality:

Technological Advancements: Adopting the latest cleaning technologies and equipment.
Training Programs: Investing in ongoing training and development for employees.

Equipment Maintenance

Regular Cleaning, Preventive Maintenance Proper equipment maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity:

Regular Cleaning: Implementing regular cleaning schedules to prevent buildup and contamination.
Preventive Maintenance: Conducting routine maintenance to identify and address potential issues.

Challenges in Silo Cleaning

Common Issues, Solutions, Best Practices Understanding and addressing common challenges in silo cleaning is essential for success:

Common Issues: Identifying common challenges such as blockages, contamination, and equipment failures.
Solutions: Developing effective solutions to overcome these challenges.
Best Practices: Implementing best practices to prevent and address issues proactively.

FAQ on Silo Cleaning

General Information

What is silo cleaning and why is it important?

Silo cleaning is the process of removing accumulated residues and contaminants from silos, large storage containers for bulk materials. It’s essential for maintaining product quality, preventing contamination, and ensuring the longevity of the silo structure.

What types of silos are cleaned?

Silos are used in various industries to store different materials. Common types include grain silos, cement silos, chemical silos, and those for food processing. Cleaning methods vary based on the stored material and silo structure.

Why should I hire a professional cleaning service?

Professional cleaning services possess specialized equipment, expertise, and safety protocols. They can efficiently and safely clean silos, adhering to industry regulations and minimizing downtime.

What methods are used for silo cleaning?

Common methods include vacuum suction for removing dust and debris, high-pressure water cleaning for removing stubborn residues, and rope access techniques for hard-to-reach areas. The choice of method depends on the silo’s size, material, and contamination level.

How often should a silo be cleaned?

Cleaning frequency depends on factors like the type of material stored, silo usage, and regulatory requirements. Generally, annual cleaning is recommended, but more frequent cleaning might be necessary for certain materials or industries.

What are the benefits of professional silo cleaning?

Professional cleaning offers numerous advantages, including improved product quality, extended silo lifespan, reduced risk of contamination, compliance with regulations, and increased operational efficiency.

How much does silo cleaning cost?

The cost of silo cleaning varies based on factors like silo size, type of material, cleaning method, and location. It’s recommended to obtain quotes from multiple service providers.

How long does silo cleaning take?

The duration of silo cleaning depends on the silo’s size, contamination level, and chosen cleaning method. A typical cleaning job can take several hours to multiple days.

What happens during a silo cleaning process?

The cleaning process usually involves accessing the silo, removing accumulated material, cleaning walls and floors, inspecting for damage, and ensuring the silo is ready for reuse.

What certifications should a cleaning service have?

Look for cleaning services with certifications like BG (occupational safety), TÜV (technical inspection), or industry-specific accreditations to ensure quality and safety standards.

For Professionals and Industrial Companies

What are the specific challenges of cleaning silos in the food industry?

Food industry silos require stringent hygiene standards. Cleaning must prevent cross-contamination and comply with food safety regulations. Specialized cleaning agents and equipment might be necessary.

What role does vacuum suction play in silo cleaning?

Vacuum suction is effective for removing dust, fine particles, and lightweight materials from silos. It’s often used in conjunction with other methods for thorough cleaning.

How important is safety in silo cleaning?

Safety is paramount due to confined spaces, hazardous materials, and potential fall risks. Adherence to safety protocols, proper training, and personal protective equipment are essential.

How can I ensure a cleaning service meets my specific needs?

Clearly communicate your silo’s dimensions, material stored, cleaning requirements, and any specific concerns. Request references, review certifications, and inquire about the service provider’s experience.

How can I promote sustainability in silo cleaning?

Choose cleaning services that use eco-friendly cleaning agents and dispose of waste responsibly. Explore options for recycling or reusing cleaning materials.

How can I verify the quality of a cleaning job?

Request a detailed cleaning report, including before-and-after photos, cleaning methods used, and any identified issues. Conduct post-cleaning inspections to assess cleanliness and identify areas for improvement.

What additional services can a cleaning company offer?

Some companies offer additional services like silo inspections, repairs, or maintenance. These services can help optimize silo performance and longevity.

How can I extend the lifespan of a silo?

Regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and avoiding overloading can extend a silo’s lifespan. Consider protective coatings or linings for added durability.

What qualifications should cleaning personnel have?

Cleaning personnel should have specific training in silo cleaning, safety protocols, and potentially certifications in areas like confined space entry or hazardous materials handling.

What factors affect the cost of silo cleaning?

Factors influencing cost include silo size, material stored, cleaning method, labor, equipment, and disposal fees. Obtaining multiple quotes can help determine a fair price.

How can I minimize downtime during cleaning?

Effective planning and scheduling can minimize downtime. Consider cleaning during off-peak production hours or opting for fast cleaning methods.

Which industries benefit most from professional silo cleaning?

Industries that heavily rely on silo storage, such as agriculture, food processing, construction, and chemicals, benefit significantly from professional cleaning services.

How can I choose the right cleaning service?

Research potential service providers, compare quotes, read reviews, and prioritize companies with experience, certifications, and a strong safety record. Consider asking for references and conducting site visits.