Maintenance of the Intake Hopper

Before commencement of grain reception, inspect the foundation and approaches and repair cracks as necessary. Open out and clean all drains. Ensure the root and sidewalls and panels are in good shape of repair. Thorough cleanliness at the reception pit and adjacent areas is paramount and should be done before grains reception commences and daily after the days work. The openings in the steel grating permit grains to fall through but retain large objects including cobs, straws, and stones and prevent the empty bags from falling through. The reception pit is normally under roof and may be built with sidewalls or panels to secure the grain from spreading out to the sides as well as prevent rainwater from entering the pit. Good design and construction ensure that water run-off does not drain into the intake pit.

Finally, it is important to see to it that trucks exceeding the design wheel pressure for the steel grating are not allowed to drive over the pit.