Different Types of IBC Tanks: Which One is Right for You? (2024)

What are IBCs? | Understanding Intermediate Bulk Containers

Intermediate Bulk Containers are heavy-duty containers used for storing various types of goods, such as food, perfumes, and oils. The IBC consists of various parts, which are sometimes customized based upon specific industry requirements for a particular application.

IBCs are widely used across a variety of industries and applications, due to their reliable construction, durability, and versatility. From the food industry, to industrial manufacturing and environmental protection applications, IBCs can be found in almost any setting. The main industries that use IBCs include the food industry, chemical manufacturing industry, and the pharmaceutical industry. Though the use of IBC containers could be nearly endless especially if you consider how many IBC totes are recycled or repurposed for other applications.

Different types of IBC tanks

Intermediate Bulk Containers or tanks, commonly referred to as IBC tanks, are used by a wide number of businesses to contain numerous kinds of materials. They are often utilized to transport blk materials especially liquids, sometimes hazardous materials. Because of this, IBC tanks need to be made to meet consumers' needs perfectly.

Each application and use case as a matching IBC tote or IBC tank that should be able to fill or fit your needs perfectly. Choosing an intermediate bulk container that will be able to stand up to rigorous needs like containing potentially hazardous materials or when it needs to be moved often and long distances can be hard to do if you don't understand what each type is made of. Below you'll be provided with details on IBC tanks in different designs. The main three types being metal, rigid plastic, and composite.

But are all IBC totes the same? IBC containers are measured in relation to specific sizes of IBCs. IBC's can be purchased in a variety of sizes and styles and are the most popular 275 gallon or 330 gallon. They can also be made of a wide variety of materials that are better or worse for various applications.

Metal IBC Totes

There are different types of IBC tanks. Some are made from metal and others from plastic. The metal tanks can be made from carbon steel or stainless steel. Carbon steel is cheaper but might rust over time. Stainless steel doesn't rust but it is more expensive.

Carbon Steel IBC Totes

Carbon steel IBCs are sturdy metal containers ideal for storage and carrying various kinds of chemical solutions. There may exist carbon steel IBCs for many chemical processing storage requirements, as well as for transport of solutions or materials such. Some features making carbon steel chemical IBCs a good option may include quick-filled brooms, ventilation bungs and a hose for easy transport of chemicals.

Stainless Steel IBC Tanks

Stainless steel IBCs are made of high strength stainless steel. These tanks provide a highly efficient way of transporting bulk substances, solids, flammables or combustibles. Stainless steel IBCs are cube-shaped and can easily be stored and transported anywhere. Stainless steel IBC totes are capable of carrying many kinds of chemicals and materials, including the dense and corrosion resistant and the reactive and acidic substances.

Composite IBC Totes

Composite IBC totes are made of a variety of materials, mainly different forms of plastic. Some come in the form of a cbe-shaped IBC tote, like caged IBC totes, or others are a flexible IBC structure that is placed inside a corrugated container. They offer a number of advantages over other types of IBC tanks, such as durability and resistance to corrosion. Composite IBCs are perfect for storing and transporting a wide range of substances, including acids and other chemicals. They are generally blow-molded plastic containers inside a metal cage or may also be a plastic tote bag in a corrugated cardboard box.

Plastic IBC Totes

Plastic containers for IBC are molded from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and are used to contain multiple chemical substances. Many HDPE intermediate bulk containers have also been approved to meet standards as a containers for hazardous materials, beverages and other consumable products and dangerous chemicals. This Plastic IBC container is also designed with important functions which protect the products contained within and protect them from damage by environmental factors.

What is the difference between food grade and non food grade IBC totes?

Food grade and non-food grade IBC totes are both Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), but they have key differences that should be understood to ensure the container is appropriate for its intended use. Food grade IBCs are designed specifically for food storage, transportation, and processing and must meet FDA regulations in order to be considered food grade IBC totes.

Choosing the right IBC tote for your needs

When it comes to selecting an appropriate type of Intermediate Bulk Container for your needs, it's important to consider all your options before making a purchase decision. Steel, plastic, and fiberglass all have their own set benefits that make them suitable for certain applications over others. By understanding the differences between these materials as well as their intended uses, you'll be able to select the best tank for your particular needs whether it be storing hazardous materials or transporting food products safely across long distances without compromising on quality or safety standards.