Double-Ended Stud Bolt Sealing for Grain Bin Stiffeners
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for attaching external stiffeners to grain bins fail to effectively prevent moisture from entering, leading to grain spoilage and corrosion, especially at the intersection between stiffener and sidewall, where gaps allow water to seep in and cause inter-layer corrosion.
Innovation Solution
A double-ended stud bolt system with a sealing member, where one end is inserted into the sidewall and the other into the stiffener, tightening to form a seal with the exterior surface of the grain bin, regardless of gaps between the stiffener and sidewall, using a feature between the threaded ends to ensure a durable and long-term seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If external stiffeners are bolted to the grain bin sidewall using conventional methods, then the structural strength and rigidity of the grain bin is improved, but gaps form at the intersection between stiffener and sidewall allowing moisture to penetrate and cause corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
A sealant compound is introduced as an intermediary material between the stiffener flange and the grain bin sidewall. This sealant fills the gaps and voids that form at the intersection, creating a moisture barrier while allowing the bolted connection to maintain structural strength. The sealant acts as a mediator that prevents harmful moisture penetration without compromising the mechanical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function is segmented from the structural connection function. Instead of relying solely on the bolted connection to provide both strength and sealing, the solution divides these functions: the bolts provide structural strength while the sealant compound provides the moisture barrier. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function.
2Strength
If laminated sheets are used to form the grain bin sidewall, then the strength and rigidity of the sidewall is improved, but the assembly process becomes more complicated and water can travel between layers
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from the complex multi-layer assembly process and applied separately at the critical intersection point. Instead of trying to seal all potential water pathways through complex assembly procedures, the sealant is applied specifically at the stiffener-sidewall interface where moisture penetration would cause the most damage, simplifying the overall assembly process.
3Strength
If the stiffener is attached to the sidewall, then structural support is improved, but the sealing at the intersection becomes more difficult especially below ring intersections where steps form
Solution Approach 1:
The sealant compound changes its physical parameters (viscosity, flexibility) to adapt to the irregular geometry at the ring intersections and steps. The sealant can flow into and fill the complex voids created by the stepped configuration, then sets to provide a durable seal. This parameter change allows effective sealing without modifying the structural attachment method.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a robust, durable seal that prevents moisture ingress, reducing grain spoilage and corrosion, while being easy to install and use with conventional tools, and suitable for any grain bin design, extending the life of the grain bin.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible member, such as a rubber, plastic, composite or other washer formed of a non-metallic or other material that facilitates a seal
Implementation Method 2
a compressible member, such as a rubber, plastic, composite or other washer formed of a non-metallic or other material that facilitates a seal
Data Source
AI summary
A system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin using a stud bolt having a first threaded end, a second threaded end and a feature positioned between the first end and a second end. A sealing member is positioned over the first end of the stud bolt, which in one case is a metallic washer with an affixed compressible sealing member. The first end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in the sidewall and an inner nut is placed over the first end inside the sidewall. As the inner nut is tightened, the feature is pulled toward the exterior surface of the grain bin thereby causing the sealing member to form a seal with the exterior surface of the grain bin. The second end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in the stiffener which is tightened onto the stud bolt.