Cesco EPC has started construction of a new grain homogenisation and dosing facility for Molini Valente SpA at its milling complex in Felizzano, Italy. The project is designed to expand the mill’s grain handling capabilities while improving lot segregation, quality control and blend preparation prior to milling.
The new installation will be fully integrated with Molini Valente’s existing grain handling system, including the rail intake facility, allowing incoming grain shipments to be received, monitored and managed with greater operational flexibility. Cesco EPC is serving as EPC contractor, responsible for engineering, procurement and mechanical construction.
A notable feature of the project is its flood resilient storage design. Because the site is located in an area that has experienced periodic flooding in recent years, hopper bottom silos were selected instead of conventional flat bottom silos to reduce the impact of potential flood events. In addition, the bottom shell course of each silo wall has been replaced by a steel bracing system, providing easy access beneath the silos for inspection, cleaning and drying following any flooding.
The expansion includes eight HBS 12,20/16/45 hopper bottom silos equipped with continuous temperature monitoring to safeguard grain quality during storage. Each silo has been sized to accommodate the equivalent of one complete train shipment, enabling full segregation of individual grain lots and their subsequent homogenisation.
This configuration allows the mill to manage variations in grain quality, moisture content and origin more effectively while supporting more consistent milling performance.
Grain handling within the new installation will be carried out by a bucket elevator, chain conveyors and a belt conveyor designed to minimise product degradation and dust generation during conveying. Aspiration filters will provide dust control throughout the system, supporting environmental and workplace safety requirements.
The project also incorporates walkways, platforms, access stairs, a compressed air distribution network and steel support structures designed in house by Cesco EPC using 3D CAD engineering tools and finite element analysis in accordance with Eurocode standards.
According to Molini Valente, the additional storage capacity will improve grain homogenisation by maintaining separation between incoming grain lots while providing greater flexibility in blend preparation. Continuous temperature monitoring will also support the early detection of moisture accumulation or heating, helping preserve grain quality before processing.
Construction is currently focused on the erection of the silos and connecting catwalks. Installation of the bucket elevator, elevator tower and conveying equipment will follow during the autumn, with project completion expected by the end of 2026.
The extension is being constructed within a fully operational milling facility on a confined site adjacent to the railway, requiring careful integration with existing operations while ensuring uninterrupted production throughout the construction period.
