Bunker Guard™
TM
Bunker Guard
Tarp Retention System
TM
Bunker Guard is a patented tarp retention system for use with bunkers under fumigation. The Bunker Guard is a liquid filled matrix of hose that is assembled along the peak of the bunker, keeping the tarp secure while the fans are turned off.
What is Bunker Guard?
The modular design allows the flexibility to use the Bunker Guard on any size bunker. It can also be used on conical / round bunkers and partially filled bunkers. When used on a one million bushel bunker, the Bunker Guard approaches 10,000 pounds to retain the tarp.
Where can the Bunker Guard be used?
Prior to fumigation, the Bunker Guard is transported to the bunker peak in sections and assembled parallel to the peak until the desired coverage is achieved. The Bunker Guard is then secured to the walls to eliminate shifting in high winds. Finally, the Bunker Guard is filled with water to weight the system.
How is the Bunker Guard installed?
The Bunker Guard secures the tarp primarily due to its mass, which can move with the tarp as it is agitated by the wind. Secondary to the mass, the matrix design divides the tarp at the peak into smaller segments keeping large accumulations of tarp material from being pulled by the wind. The natural result of limiting “ballooning” of the tarp also reduces the rate of air exchange inside the bunker, thereby keeping fumigant concentrations higher throughout the fumigation.
How does the Bunker Guard work?
The Bunker Guard was designed and developed for use in wind conditions that make traditional fumigation impossible. When weather conditions won’t cooperate, the Bunker Guard can remove wind limitations that make traditional fumigation risky or impossible. Knowing the tarp is protected by Bunker Guard from anticipated and unexpected wind events gives managers peace of mind.
When to use the Bunker Guard
For grain quality managers, the Bunker Guard provides relief from the fear of tarp detachment. When time is limited due to shipping dates, the end of the fumigation season, or any other factor, the Bunker Guard can help to ensure a successful fumigation by eliminating setbacks.
Why use the Bunker Guard?
Testing thus far has demonstrated its effectiveness on loosely applied tarps, strapless tarps, and tarps of weaker design or thinner material. In such applications the Bunker Guard has proven effective in wind conditions up to 30 mph sustained wind with 43 mph gusts. The full wind capabilities of the Bunker Guard have not yet been realized, but as testing continues, we strive to completely understand and maximize the full potential of the Bunker Guard.