Depending on where you live in the country, the sight of a few solitary grain silos standing out against the horizon might be commonplace. In fact, it might be so common that you barely even notice them. Let alone think about the evolution of grain storage and how people used to store their grain before these steel cylinders came to be!
So, we thought it would be fun to look back on the history of grain storage and find out how it used to be done.
The History & Evolution of Grain Storage
Containers of Mud & Clay
Let’s start our review of the evolution of grain storage by looking way back to its earliest form. This first iteration was most likely a container made of some combination of mud and clay. Which makes sense, since the modern grain bin is just a large container!
These clay containers have different names across the world, including jars and pots. They would have been built from a mixture of clay, straw, and dung. The natural building material would have allowed for good ventilation and insulation.
The downsides, on the other hand, aren’t hard to imagine. Heavy rain, large animals, temperature shifts, and other elements were difficult to contend with. Plus, while commercial farming is a more recent invention, these clay grain bins would have had a seriously limited bushel capacity.
Underground Storage Pits
The next method also won’t be a surprise. One, because it still exists today, and two, because if you’re not building up, you’re digging down. We’re talking about underground storage pits.
The ancient variation would have been a clay or stone-lined pit, possibly with multiple chambers and even built-in drainage. The insulation that came with being underground would have provided natural temperature and climate regulation. The biggest concern would have been flooding, and, once sealed, access would have been potentially more difficult than a clay jar in your living room.
Metal Bins
However, like most history, things change dramatically once metal enters the picture…and that includes the next step in our evolution of grain storage. Once introduced, aluminum or steel bins quickly became the ideal storage method thanks to their durability and capacity, as well as ease of use and maintenance.
Concrete Grain Silos
Similar to metal structures, concrete silos also became a popular choice. This storage method really pushed grain bins in a vertical direction. Concrete silos also increased the amount of grain that could be stored. Meanwhile, the thickness of the concrete provided natural climate protection.
Evolved Grain Storage Technology
While you will still see both steel and concrete grain bins today, the newest advances have less to do with the building material and more to do with the technology that inhabits the structure.
As far as the evolution of grain storage technology goes, automated systems, dynamic temperature and ventilation options, and more offer greater control over the elements that people were previously only ever at the mercy of.
Get the Latest in Grain Storage Systems with FSCS
We’ve come a long way from clay pots! Who knows where the future will take us?
At FSCS, our team continues to learn and adapt to the latest technologies and advancements in grain storage systems. This way, we can help our clients do the same.
If you have any questions about grain storage, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454 and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you with the best client-focused service experience!