Computer-Aided Assessment of Operations of Metal-Silo Storage Facilities in Nigeria

Authors: Olorunfemi BJ, Kunle OK

DOI Info: N/A

ABSTRACT

Assessment of the use of Metal silo storage facilities in Nigeria was carried out and problems associated with its uses in grain storage. This study identifies the bottlenecks and introduces the use of computer-aided system for managing storage facilities in the country. Questionnaires were administered to 50 metal-silo grain operators, government storage officials, grain merchants, grain farmers and silo managers. The data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 10.0. A software was developed to handle the maintenance procedures of all metal silo facilities. The software developed had three major sections: the user interface was developed using Dreamweaver 8, coding section was developed using Pre-Processor Hypertext Programme (PHP) higher programming language code, and Database was developed using MySQL. Results showed that problems reported varied from moulding (45%), insect infestation (33%), chemical contamination (34%), caking (20), rusting (20%), grain escape (16%), and electrical failure that occur in metal silos under review. Conditions of grains before storage affect its storage system. Coupled with poor management of grains in metal-silo have overall economic effect on the storage handling facilities Paired samples test showed probability level having significant difference (0.01 < 0.05) when the application of software was compared with previous procedures. The software provides a quick reminder when action is designed to take place. Losses was reduced from > 5% to a tolerable level of <1% and a reduced maintenance cost. Computer-aided management will ensure efficient maintenance of installed grain equipment thereby saving cost.

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