Reconditioned IBC tanks: Facts & Tote Recommendations

Reconditioned IBC tanks can be a cost-efficient, robust, and sustainable choice for handling and transport of liquids and semisolids.

This article delves into the core practices reconditioned IBC tanks/totes (1000 liter / 275 US gallon), offering essential insights for professionals seeking a modern container solution.

If you are looking for an alternative, a single-use IBC container that does not require reconditioning, return-transport, wash-water or the risk of contamination the content - take a look at this product page for Fluid-Bag FLEXI, or learn the Fluid-Bag concept.

Extending the Life of IBC tanks through Reconditioning

Reconditioning composite Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) involves three essential methods:

• Cleaning
• Repairing
• Remanufacturing

Each of these methods plays a distinct role in enhancing longevity.

Cleaning - Defense Against Contaminants

Cleaning serves as the initial defense in reconditioning IBCs, aiming to eliminate residues and contaminants through washing or steam cleaning.

This process preserves the structural integrity of the container. Users are responsible for regular cleaning during the period of use, emphasizing visual checks for fittings and gaskets.

Any replacement triggers a documented leakproofness test, reinforcing the reconditioning process.

Repairing - Restoring to Design Standards

When damage occurs to the rigid inner container, the repair process involves replacing damaged components with new ones conforming to the original design type.

A comprehensive inspection and leakproofness test validate the restored capability.

Post-repair, a distinct marking indicates inspection and testing status, with the UN marking remaining unchanged for conformity with international standards.

Like cleaning, replacement triggers a documented leakproofness test, ensuring stringent performance criteria for repaired IBCs.

Remanufacturing - Adapting to New Design Types

Remanufacturing is an intricate process, converting a specific IBC from one UN design type to another.

This involves thorough inspection, potential repair of the outer cage, and fitting a new inner receptacle. Both elements must receive approval, leading to a new UN marking in alignment with the updated design type.

While repair targets specific damages, remanufacturing allows broader adaptation to changing needs or regulations. This method ensures conformity to the latest design specifications, with necessary tests conducted during production.

Repaired and remanufactured IBC tanks shall have appropriate markings to distinguish them from their original counterparts.

IBC Tank Inspection for Longevity

Guaranteeing the durability of reconditioned IBC containers requires detailed inspections before each use. Beyond surface checks, professionals conduct pre-filling and carriage assessments, ensuring freedom from corrosion, contamination, and potential damages.

A focal point is the verification of service equipment functionality, particularly valves.

Periodic Inspections for Compliance

When transporting dangerous goods, an additional layer of responsibility arises.

Adhering to UN Model Regulations and industry codes, mandatory periodic inspections occur every two and a half years. These expert-led assessments encompass visual checks, service equipment functionality verification, and a stringent leakproofness test.

Post-inspection, IBCs must not be filled or transported to uphold safety standards.

Considerations and Limits

Emphasizing a 5-year limit for transporting dangerous goods, the section underscores the importance of considering the filling product's properties and potential degradation.

For aggressive substances like nitric acid with a concentration of 55 % or more, inner containers with enhanced strength are mandated for repeated use.

Key Focus on Periodic Inspections

Diving deeper into the periodic inspections for IBCs transporting dangerous goods, the section highlights visual checks, service equipment functionality verification, and leakproofness testing.

The involvement of experts and stringent documentation underscores a serious commitment to safety protocols, aligning with international codes such as IMDG-Code and RID/ADR.

Recycling IBC containers: A Path to Environmental Responsibility

In an age where environmental awareness is paramount, recycling IBC tanks has become a crucial element of responsible industrial practices.

This section delves into the various recycling methods available, showcasing how manufacturers and reconditioners can play their part in environmental sustainability.

Recycling Methods of IBC containers

Recycling composite IBCs employs techniques aimed at minimizing environmental impact. Let’s take a quick look at mechanical recycling and energy recovery.

• Mechanical recycling of IBC totes is a standout approach, focusing on reclaiming materials like High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and metal. The recycled HDPE finds purpose as a substitute for virgin plastics, reducing reliance on new materials and contributing to sustainable practices.
• Energy recovery of IBCs, through incineration is another method. This means harnessing energy from controlled processes of burning the IBC and transforming the end-of-life into a resource for energy generation.

Return Systems and Responsible Disposal

Manufacturers can establish return systems of IBC tanks, creating an organized way for end-users to dispose of used containers responsibly.

By providing end-users with a structured process for returning used IBCs, the industry actively promotes responsible disposal and recycling.

Adhering to Collection Conditions

To meet recycling targets, end-users must follow specific collection conditions, ensuring IBCs are completely drained, free of residues, and all valves and closures are securely closed.

Additionally, IBC totes must show no visible signs of damage or oxidation, with the last filling product clearly identifiable through legible labels; clarifications that the reconditioning or refurbishing process has been done in a correct way.

The collection conditions for reconditioned IBC totes applies all container sizes, the most common being the 1000 liter/275 US gallon IBC tanks.

Meeting Recycling Standards: Simple Steps for Environmental Responsibility

In the journey towards responsible recycling and environmental compliance, end-users of liquid bulk containers need to follow specific collection conditions.

Essential Steps in Recycling

Preparing IBC containers for recycling begins with thorough draining and cleaning. End-users ensure that the IBC is entirely drained, free from any residue, and thoroughly cleaned.

This careful process not only facilitates effective recycling but also aligns with environmental standards, preventing contamination and maintaining the purity of recycled materials.

Moreover, all discharge valves and closure systems must be securely closed. This precaution guarantees that the IBC tote is ready for recycling without any risk of leaks or spillage during transportation and recycling.

Closure Systems and Identifying Filling Products

Responsible recycling hinges on intact closure systems. All discharge valves and closure mechanisms must be securely in place, ensuring safety during transportation and recycling.

The reconditioned IBC tote must show no signs of damage or oxidation, including the inner bottle, steel grid, and pallet. This comprehensive inspection ensures that only structurally sound IBCs proceed to the recycling stage, enhancing safety and efficiency.

The last filling product's clear identification through label plates and other required labels is crucial. This traceability enables recycling facilities to handle materials appropriately, adhering to specific recycling processes.

Implementing Reconditioned IBC Practices: A Practical Call to Action

Using renovated IBC totes brings benefits like cost-effectiveness, resource conservation, and a smaller environmental footprint.

Implementing the Pros of Reconditioned IBC tanks

Putting the pros into action means integrating reconditioned IBCs into existing processes, ensuring proper cleaning, inspection, and, if needed, repair or remanufacturing.

This proactive approach not only prolongs the lifespan of IBCs but also supports sustainable resource use.

Acknowledging the Cons of Reconditioned IBC tanks

Recognizing the limitations of reconditioned IBC containers is crucial, especially if handling aggressive substances or meeting specific design requirements.

Understanding these limitations empowers decision-makers to opt for alternative solutions when needed, maintaining a balance between sustainability and operational needs.

Exploring Modern Alternatives to Reconditioned IBC totes

Professionals are encouraged to explore modern alternatives, like the Fluid-Bag concept, offering a disposable IBC solution.

The Fluid-Bag Concept

Introduced in 1984, the Fluid-Bag concept revolutionizes disposable IBC containers.

Fluid-Bag FLEXI, available in 900 and 1000 liters (app. 238 and 264 US gallons), presents a one-way option as an alternative to steel drums, totes, and traditional IBC tanks.

This all-in-one unit includes a single-trip inner container, a transport bag, and a wooden pallet. The MULTI unit has a steel pallet for multi-use and pallet rotation.