Loads caused by bottom unloading wall flumes in a model grain bin

Wall loads were measured in a model bin 2.44 m in diameter and 7.3 m tall e quipped with a bottom unloading wall flume. The results were then compared to the wall loads measured during unloading of this same bin without the fl ume. During most of unloading the wall loads measured when using the flume were smaller than those during filling. However, at the onset of discharge a load spike was observed prior to the formation of the funnel-flow dischar ge pattern. Wall moments in the direction of the flume were observed to occ ur which were three times as large as those measured during centric unloadi ng.