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Silo cleaning

Case study: Explosive cleaning in an anhydrite silo

Our case studies present real operations carried out by NT Service GmbH – including specific requirements, challenging hazard situations and professional execution. Each case study demonstrates how we reliably and compliantly manage safety critical specialist operations.

The initial situation

For decades, a massive block of compacted and hardened material had been stored in an anhydrite silo. Originally stored as loose bulk material, the contents had hardened over time and due to weather exposure into a stone-like mass. Removal was only possible through a narrow chute, partly with manual assistance. The operator, Holcim Deutschland GmbH, initially assumed the material was loose, but on site found massive car-sized chunks that were firmly wedged in place. Earlier attempts to empty the silo using conventional methods or manual work had remained unsuccessful for years.

The client

Holcim Deutschland GmbH, Sehnde-Höver, operator of an anhydrite silo with a long-standing blockage.

The assignment

The objective was to relieve the anhydrite silo by controlled removal of the hardened material. The operation was intended to provide a solution after conventional methods had previously failed several times.

The hazard situation

The dimensions and hardness of the material made it clear that conventional methods such as pressure or compressed air could not achieve the desired result. Purely mechanical removal would have taken weeks or months and involved extreme physical strain as well as significant hazard potential.

The procedure

Through the targeted use of explosive cleaning techniques, the large chunks were controllably broken down and set in motion. This made it possible to loosen material masses that could not physically have been reached with any pneumatic hammer. The controlled blasts took over the heavy work, significantly reduced the physical strain on the personnel and enabled work to be carried out without direct presence in hazardous areas.

The result

Despite the enormous quantities of material, which could not be completely removed within five days, the silo was significantly relieved. For the operator, it was clear that real progress had been achieved for the first time in decades. Without the use of explosive cleaning techniques, the silo would probably have remained blocked for several more years.

Legal framework

Work of this kind is subject to strict requirements. In addition to general occupational safety obligations, the ATEX directives for potentially explosive atmospheres and regulations under explosives law apply in particular. Each measure requires a comprehensive risk assessment, the use of approved procedures and complete documentation. Violations can lead to significant liability and criminal risks.

This operation demonstrates that safety and technical excellence are inseparably linked. Intelligent explosive cleaning protects the health of the personnel involved, reduces hazards and enables results that would not be achievable with conventional methods. Responsibility means using proven technology when other methods fail.