Polem composite silos strengthen Verborg Group biorefinery

Challenges and analysis

Verborg’s rapid growth required an expansion of storage capacity, especially for critical raw materials such as activated carbon and bleaching earth. These materials have complex flow behaviors and are sensitive to external factors like moisture and temperature.

Previous installations had experienced issues with blockages and quality loss, leading to costly downtime and additional maintenance. Furthermore, Verborg wanted a solution that aligned with their sustainability goals: corrosion-resistant materials that also contributed to a stable and energy-efficient process.

Solution and implementation

Verborg chose Polem for their expertise in composite silos, with a proven track record in demanding industrial environments. In close cooperation, two custom-designed silos were installed:

• 70 m³ silo for activated carbon
• 122 m³ silo for bleaching earth

These silos feature seamless, mirror-smooth inner walls to prevent blockages and preserve product quality. The high-performance insulation ensures a stable internal temperature, regardless of external weather conditions. This results in consistent product flow and minimized downtime.

Installation next to the existing silos was completed smoothly, with no disruption to production. Any technical challenges were promptly and effectively addressed by Polem’s project team.

Results

The new storage solution delivered tangible benefits for Verborg:

• 100% trouble-free material flow, even with challenging products
• Consistent product quality thanks to stable internal climate
• No blockages or product loss, eliminating costly downtime
• Low-maintenance operation, reducing operational costs
• Perfect alignment with Verborg’s sustainability objectives

This investment enables Verborg to confidently continue and scale up their sustainable, energy-efficient production process.

Lessons learned

The partnership between Verborg and Polem highlighted the importance of tailored solutions and smart material choices. The project demonstrated that high-quality composite silos not only solve operational issues but also enhance the overall sustainability of the production process.

A key success factor was the open communication and proactive problem-solving approach from Polem, which ensured a fast and efficient implementation. In the future, involving Polem even earlier in the production line design could yield even greater optimization.

Conclusion

Thanks to the new composite silos from Polem, Verborg Group now has a solid foundation for continued growth and innovation. The storage of critical raw materials is now guaranteed to run smoothly and consistently, allowing their sustainable production process to operate without interruption. This investment perfectly supports Verborg’s ambition to lead the way in green chemistry and CO₂ reduction in northern Netherlands.

FAQ

1. Why did Verborg Group choose composite silos over metal ones?
Composite silos offer superior corrosion resistance and prevent quality loss due to condensation. They are also lighter and better insulated than traditional metal silos.

2. How long did the project take from design to installation?
The entire project, from initial design to final installation, was completed within a few months. Thanks to close collaboration and precise planning, the project was delivered on time.

3. What impact do the silos have on the refinery’s energy consumption?
The excellent insulation reduces the energy needed to maintain a stable product temperature. This contributes to the overall energy-efficient character of the refinery.

4. How maintenance-intensive are the new silos?
The silos require very little maintenance: regular inspections are sufficient thanks to their smooth surfaces and corrosion resistance. This reduces maintenance costs and minimizes production downtime.

5. Are there plans for further expansion with composite silos?
Yes, Verborg is considering using composite silos again in future expansions. The positive experience with this installation makes it a strong option moving forward.

Contact 

Would you like to discover how advanced composite silos can help optimize and future-proof your production process? Contact Polem today for tailored advice!