PORT ECONOMICS 
consists of a number of lofty cells generally cylindrical or 
hexagonal in section, in close contiguity. The grain 
having been raised by suction, or otherwise, to the level 
of the top of the building, is shot into one or other of the 
silos by means of bands and shoots. When required to 
be withdrawn, it is discharged through a narrow spout at 
the foot of the silo, the aperture of which is controlled by a 
valve. The system is highly convenient, since the grain 
requires no manual trimming, as is the case when it is 
deposited on a warehouse floor. 
Oil Depéts are tanks for the reception of oil pumped 
ashore from ships through pipe lines which may be of some 
considerable length. The tanks are generally steel or 
concrete structures, surrounded by moats and low retaining 
walls to prevent the accidental escape of the fluid, which, 
owing to its high degree of inflammability, requires a number 
of special precautions for its safe storage. 
SURVEYING OF CARGOES 
A function which is frequently undertaken by port 
authorities is that of investigating, through the agency of 
official Surveyors of Cargoes, claims for damages alleged 
to have been done to merchandise in transit. By their 
independent inspection of the goods the surveyors are able 
to assess impartially the amount of compensation, and their 
decisions are generally acceptable to both parties and so 
save friction and litigation, 
70