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be withdrawn, it is discharged through a narrow spout at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,

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