Flexible IBC: Guide, FAQs and best option for liquids and semi-solids

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container, often referred to as Flexible IBC or "FIBC", presents a modern approach to bulk packaging when compared to its rigid counterpart: the traditional IBC tank.

In this article, we at Fluid-Bag go through the concept of flexible IBCs, highlighting their features, benefits, and applications.

We'll also address common questions, such as emptying methods and durability, and ultimately explore which container emerges as the prime choice for liquid handling.

What is a Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container?

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container is an intermediate bulk container that is flexible instead of rigid. The flexible characteristic of the container means that it can change shape, and therefore it will take up little space when empty (before filling and after emptying).

Is "Flexible IBC" the same as "FIBC"?

While the abbreviation "FIBC" stands for Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container, it is often used interchangeably with "Flexible IBC".

In bulk logistics, the term “FIBC" is mostly associated with the transportation and handling of dry products. Therefore, FIBCs can also be called big bags, jumbo bags, super sacks and more.

However, technically speaking, a flexible IBC used for liquids can also be called an "FIBC", if it is regulatory classed as an IBC container, which for example the Fluid-Bag concept is.

What are some applications for Flexible IBCs?

The utility of Flexible IBCs extends to a wide range of industries and materials, for example:

• Liquids and semi-solids: Adhesives, sealants, coatings, lubricants, ointments, toothpaste, food ingredients, bakery fillings, inks, and more.
• Dry Products: Various types of powder, sand, granules of plastic, and other materials.

The choice of flexible intermediate bulk containers depends entirely on the product to be handled, filled, transported, and emptied. Some container manufacturers like us at Fluid-Bag are specialized on liquid handling.

Flexible IBC vs Rigid IBC: Key Differences

Although both flexible intermediate bulk containers, and a rigid IBC tanks are bulk liquid containers, there are some differences.

Let’s have a look at some of them!

Structure:

• Rigid IBC: Comprises a sturdy plastic outer shell enclosed within a metal cage.
• Fluid-Bag’s Flexible IBC: Features a soft yet robust polypropylene plastic outer shell. An inner container made of PE plastic, equipped with EVOH, aluminum, or opaque barriers, encases and protects the transported liquid.

Sizes:

• Rigid IBC: Typically available in 1000-liter capacities (app 264 US gal in effective volume). Takes up the same space when empty.
• Fluid-Bag’s Flexible IBC: Offered in 900 and 1000-liter capacities (app 238/264 US gal). Are delivered in neatly packed boxes when empty. In only 2.5 square meters (app 27 sq feet), you can store 20 000 liters worth of Fluid-Bag containers (app 5283 US gal).

Plastic Material Quantity:

• Rigid IBC: One unit contains around 30-40 kg of plastic (app 66-88 lbs).
• Fluid-Bag’s Flexible IBC: One bag utilizes only approximately 5 kg of plastic material (app 11 lbs).

Emptying Method:

• Rigid IBC: Relies usually on a pump and gravity for liquid discharge.
• Fluid-Bag’s Flexible IBC: As the bag can be stretched and compressed like a tube of toothpaste, it is ensured that minimal residue remains in the container. With the correct emptying equipment, any type of liquid, whether it is a light flowing fluid or a sticky semi-solid product, can be emptied effectively.

FAQs about Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers

To dig deeper into the topic of flexible intermediate bulk containers, we list in this section frequently asked questions.

Are flexible IBC containers durable?

Flexible IBC bags can be very durable, although they are “soft”. For instance, flexible containers such as Fluid-Bag containers can take some impacts better than traditional IBC tanks, thanks to the elastic properties that absorb shocks. Videos of tests and accident simulations can be found here: Fluid-Bag Test Videos

What are the UN markings for a flexible IBC?

UN markings on flexible IBCs provide vital information about the container's compatibility with specific materials, ensuring safe handling and transportation. It is often the case that the inner bag itself can handle a hazardous liquid, but that regulatory regulations prevent the transport of the soft containers. Contact the Fluid-Bag team for detailed information.

Are FIBC bags waterproof?

FIBC bags that are designed for liquids feature inner liners that prevent leakage and maintain the integrity of the contained material. However, be careful because many FIBC bags are not made to handle liquids and therefore are not waterproof.

What are some FIBCs types?

Traditional FIBCs, including Conductive, Antistatic, Grounded, and Static Protective bags, offer diverse solutions. Conductive FIBCs lack static protection, while Antistatic ones prevent charges but not sparks. Grounded bags, with electrically conductive fabric, safely dissipate static charges, ideal for flammable materials. Static Protective FIBCs, using dissipative fabric, need no grounding and shield against hazardous charges for both flammable and non-flammable materials.

What industries use flexible intermediate bulk containers?

Industries ranging from food (fruit preparations, bakery fillings) to manufacturing (lubricants, inks, adhesives, silicone sealants) and pharmaceuticals find value in utilizing flexible IBCs. Some of them especially enjoy the use of this disposable IBCs and totes for single-trip transportation.

Are flexible containers suitable for adhesives?

Flexible containers for adhesives remain sealed from filling to discharge, which means there is no risk of particle, oxygen, or moisture contamination. This makes flexible IBCs from Fluid-Bag a common choice within the adhesive, sealants, and coatings industry. By using a single opening for filling and discharge, the system is airtight.

What are the benefits with the Fluid-Bag concept?

There are several advantages with Fluid-Bag’s flexible IBCs when handling liquids, viscous products and semi-solids. Some of the common reasons for changing from a traditional container solution to a new one like Fluid-Bag are:

• Lower residue (minimize your waste)
• Reduce carbon footprint
• Eliminate contamination
• Skip expensive washing costs
• Gain more storage space, and/or
• Avoid return transportation of empty bulky containers

Read more about the Fluid-Bag concept and some of our references or contact our team for detailed information.