IBC Types
Understanding different types of Intermediate Bulk Containers and their applications
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Composite IBC (Rigid)
The most common type. Features an HDPE inner bottle within a galvanized steel cage, mounted on a pallet.
✓ Advantages
- • Most economical
- • Lightweight
- • Easy to clean
- • Widely available
! Considerations
- • Not for extreme temperatures
- • UV sensitive if stored outdoors
◆ Applications
- • General chemicals
- • Food & beverage
- • Agriculture
- • Water storage
Stainless Steel IBC
All-metal construction for demanding applications. Available in 304 or 316 stainless steel.
✓ Advantages
- • Temperature resistant
- • Extremely durable
- • Inert to most chemicals
- • Easy to sanitize
! Considerations
- • Higher cost
- • Heavier weight
- • More expensive to repair
◆ Applications
- • Pharmaceutical
- • High-purity chemicals
- • Food processing
- • Corrosive materials
Flexible IBC (FIBC)
Fabric-based bulk bags for dry materials. Not to be confused with rigid liquid IBCs.
✓ Advantages
- • Very lightweight
- • Collapsible when empty
- • Low cost
- • High capacity options
! Considerations
- • Only for dry materials
- • Single-use typically
- • Not for liquids
◆ Applications
- • Dry powders
- • Granular materials
- • Agricultural products
- • Construction materials
UN Rated IBC
IBCs certified for hazardous material transport. Meet strict UN and DOT regulations.
✓ Advantages
- • Legally required for hazmat
- • Safety features
- • Documented compliance
- • Insurance accepted
! Considerations
- • Higher cost
- • Stricter inspection requirements
- • Certification maintenance
◆ Applications
- • Hazardous chemicals
- • Flammable liquids
- • Corrosive materials
- • Regulated transport
Food Grade IBC
Composite IBCs manufactured and maintained for food contact applications.
✓ Advantages
- • FDA compliant
- • Food-safe materials
- • Clean room production
- • Documented history
! Considerations
- • Limited previous content options
- • Requires proper handling
- • Higher cost
◆ Applications
- • Beverages
- • Edible oils
- • Syrups
- • Food ingredients
Heated IBC
IBCs equipped with or designed for heating systems. For temperature-sensitive materials.
✓ Advantages
- • Maintain product temperature
- • Prevent freezing
- • Improve viscosity
- • Year-round operation
! Considerations
- • Higher cost
- • Requires power
- • Additional maintenance
◆ Applications
- • Viscous liquids
- • Cold climates
- • Temperature-sensitive chemicals
- • Wax and oils
Quick Comparison
| Type | Cost | Durability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | $ | Good | General use |
| Stainless Steel | $$$ | Excellent | Demanding applications |
| UN Rated | $$ | Good | Hazmat transport |
| Food Grade | $$ | Good | Food & beverage |
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