10
198823 R11
3. Before You Begin
3.1. Bin Design and Capacity
These Westeel Grain Bins are designed for:
1. Non-corrosive free-flowing materials up to 55 lbs/ft
3
(880 kg/m
3
) average compacted bulk density.
2. Maximum horizontal gusted wind speed of 94 mph (151 km/h)
3. Seismic zone 2a (U.B.C. 1997).
4. Roof Loading
Snow Load
Peak Load
15’ — 24’ bins
27’ — 48’ bins
Imperial
Metric
Imperial
Metric
Imperial
Metric
15.0 lbs/ft
2
.72 kPa
4000 lbs.
17.8 kN
5000 lbs.
22.2 kN
24.0 lbs/ft
2
(when optional roof
stiffening rings
installed)
1.15 kPa
(when optional roof
stiffening rings
installed)
3.2. Foundation Design and Loads
The foundations for the stiffened bin models are based on 4000 lbs. per sq. ft. (192 kPa) soil bearing capacity.
All foundation designs use 3000 lbs. per sq. in. (21 MPa) ultimate compressive strength (after 28 days) for
concrete and 43,500 lbs. per sq. in. (300 MPa) re-bar. The foundation designs included in this manual are
suggestions only, and will vary according to local soil conditions. Westeel will not assume any liability for results
arising from their use.
Important
Foundation should be uniform and level. Level should not vary by more than ¼" over a span of four feet
under the bottom ring angle. Any variance from level must be shimmed under upright base assembly. If
being utilized to support a full floor aeration system, this levelness requirement should extend across
the complete floor area.
3.3. Site and Assembly
Unless otherwise specifically provided in writing, Westeel does not take responsibility for any defects or
damages to any property, or injury to any persons, arising from or related to any site or assembly
considerations, including but not limited to:
• Bin location and bin siting
• Soil conditions and corresponding foundation requirements (note that the examples provided in manuals
are for specifically stated soil conditions)
• Bin assembly (Westeel recommends the use of qualified bin installers; contact Westeel for information on
installers in your area)
• Field modifications or equipment additions that affect the bin structure
• Interconnections with neighboring structures
3. BEFORE YOU BEGIN
SEALFORM CONCRETE FORM – GRAIN BIN