Grain Systems Bin Accessories PNEG-318 - Manual (Page 8)

8 PNEG-318 Concrete Foundation Recommendations for GSI Grain Bins
2. General Foundation Requirements for GSI Bins
Requirements
The following construction related notes pertain to the installation of farm bin foundations.
Selecting the Proper Site
The selected site should be level, firm and free from underlying debris. The bin can be installed
satisfactorily on slopes, but as the slope increases, additional labor and materials are required for the
foundation. The concrete foundation surface must be level. If some fill is required, it should be watered
and tamped thoroughly to prevent uneven settling from the weight of the bin. Naturally, the site must allow
convenient access for easy loading and unloading, plus provide additional space for future units. Also
consider the positioning of handling equipment, availability of electricity and placement of fans, heaters
and gas tanks.
All foundation specifications should be construed as recommendations only. Because of the many
variable conditions in actual installation, GSI assumes no liability for results arising from the use of
such recommendations.
Scribe the Diameter
(See Figure 2A.)
After determining the center of the site, drive a small 2 x 4 in the ground to mark the center point of the
foundation. The top of the stake should be the same height as the finished foundation will be. Using one
large spike, nail a straight 2 x 4 (approximately 2' longer than the radius of the bin) to the top of the center
stake. The swiveling 2 x 4 will act as a compass, enabling you to scribe the correct diameter of the
foundation and later locate the anchor and stiffener bolt locations. (NOTE: Making the 2 x 4 two feet (2')
longer than the radius will allow the 2 x 4 to also be used as a leveling device and for pulling concrete.)
Figure 2A Scribe the Diameter