CHAPTER XI 



THE EEICHEKT SYSTEM 



This is a system of monolithic construction devel- 

 oped by the Reichert Manufacturing Company of Mil- 

 waukee. It differs from other systems of this type in 

 that the forms are made in sections 24 inches square, 

 instead of in larger sections, so that each can be handled 

 easily by one man. The small size also makes for ad- 

 justability, a feature which is still further provided for 

 by the fact that the sections are reinforced at top and 

 bottom with strap steel instead of angles, thus allowing 

 them to take the curvature of the particular size of silo 

 under construction, to which they are then held by a 

 rigid inner steel circle and by spacers placed at suit- 

 able intervals. Silos of all diameters are thus made 

 with the same outfit, except that fractional plates have 

 to be used to fill out for the various sizes where the 

 circumference does not work out in exact multiples of 

 24 inches. 



An outfit consists of sufficient forms for three rings 

 around the silo. This is enough for one day's run, 

 or 6 feet in height, the practice followed by most con- 

 tractors in using this system, although some are erect- 

 ing 8 feet per day. 



The sections are reinforced vertically with angle 

 irons, and when assembled the vertical joints are se- 

 cured by clamps. These clamps are attached to one 

 angle of each section and when in place fit down over 

 the angle of the adjoining section, a push of the lever 

 driving them up tight. These levers are downward act- 



(84) 



