IBC Tanks
IBC is an abbreviation of intermediate bulk container, sometimes known as an IBC tote or IBC tank. This reusable industrial container was designed to handle the transport and storage of bulk granulated and liquid substances, including food ingredients, chemicals, solvents and pharmaceuticals. IBC tanks are called “intermediate” containers because they carry a volume between that of drums and tanks, usually 275 or 330 gallons.
Today, IBCs are a popular storage and transportation option and are widely used in many different industries and business sectors, including:
- Pharmaceuticals
- Construction
- Food production
- Paints and coatings
- Wine and beverages
- Aquaponics
Variable construction
IBC tanks can be constructed from a range of materials, depending on shipper requirements and regulations. Typically, IBC containers are made of white or translucent galvanised iron cage joined to a pallet.
You can also find IBCs constructed from fibreboard, heavy-gauge plastic, aluminium, wood and anised iron. Some IBCs are made of heavy-gauge plastic and are moulded to the bottom so that the whole unit forms a single piece. All 600 to 1,000-litre IBC models constructed from eco-friendly polyethylene can be used to store hazardous materials.
Versatile storage
IBC tank technology was designed primarily to handle liquids such as chemicals and solvents, but it is a versatile option suitable for the storage and transport of a range of materials.
The food industry employs IBC storage to handle products such as fruit juices, oils, fats or additives. Stainless steel IBCs are particularly well suited for this sector as they can be cleaned effectively, helping to maintain hygiene. IBCs used in the food industry also help to maintain products such as oils or additives at a constant temperature.
For the storage and transport of hazardous goods, container integrity is crucial in the interest of work safety and environmental protection. Any storage container used in this sector has to be able to stand up to the demands of long-distance transport, and their robust design makes IBCs the ideal option for hazardous goods.
IBCs can also be used in a number of specialist sectors, including aquaponics and the collection of rainwater for drinking or harvesting. They are commonly used for the storage of large volumes of water at construction sites.
Advantages of IBC storage tanks
IBC storage products have proved to be a popular storage method and have many advantages:
- As they are cube-shaped, they can be stacked to optimise space during both shipping and storing, and can handle greater quantities than cylindrical containers.
- Folding and flexible IBCs use even less space once empty on return journeys.
- Composite IBCs feature plastic liners that can be filled with a variety of materials.
- A valve at the foot of the IBC enables the attachment of a hose to transfer contents into smaller containers, facilitating the easy packing, distribution and sale of materials and helping suppliers to meet local packaging requirements.
- The pallets on which the IBCs rest can be accessed easily by forklift trucks.
- The secure steel frame ensures that IBCs are stable and protected.
IBC accessories
IBCs are designed to facilitate the use of a number of different tools and accessories, such as openers, hoppers or pumps, to make handling of materials easier.
For example, if it is necessary to regularly mix or agitate the materials in the IBC, as is often the case with emulsions, specialised agitators and mixers can be used by attaching the appropriate tool to the IBC opening.
Variants of IBC
DENIOS supplies a variety of IBC Products that are capable of storing dangerous materials, including standard polyethylene IBCs on plastic pallets that can take a volume of 800 or 1,000 litres, and that are approved for the storage and transport of hazardous materials.
We can also supply a range of IBC tanks on wooden pallets. Our IBCs in this range come in three capacity sizes of 600, 800 and 1,000 litres, and we have a selection of stainless steel IBCs that can be used for transport or storage.
Get in touch with us today and find out how our comprehensive range of IBCs can provide your business with the ideal storage and transport solution.
