Patented in 1933, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) have proven to be a valuable asset in commercial waste management services, as well as being efficient in storing and stacking various materials, like hazardous waste.
The many advantages of using IBC containers has resulted in them often now being used in place of traditional solutions like storage cans and barrels. In this article, we cover the key factors concerning IBC containers, as well as illustrate how Commercial Recycling use them for waste storage and transportation.
What is an IBC?
IBC stands for intermediate bulk containers, which are pallet-mounted, reusable containers most commonly used to store and transport bulk waste.
The three main types of IBC containers in use today can be categorised under rigid, folding and flexible, with the most common being rigid.
Rigid IBC containers are capable of stacking and can be moved by forklift or pallet pump (a tool used to lift and move pallets).
Their size is considered to be ‘intermediate’ as the volume they carry sits between that of a tank and a drum. The most common volumes of IBC containers are1,040 litres and 1,250 litres.
What are IBCs made of?
IBC containers can be made of a variety of materials, depending on factors such as if it will be reused or not, legal requirements and the type of IBC.
For rigid IBCs, the inner containers are often made from plastics such as polyethene, or metals like aluminium or iron. The outer container is usually made from a protective layer of zinc covering either iron or steel.
In contrast, folding IBCs don’t have a rigid outer cage and are made of very durable plastic that allows the container to fold inwards when empty. Flexible IBCs are made from various heavy-duty materials such as woven polypropylene or polyethene.
What is an IBC used for?
Rigid intermediate bulk containers are commonly used to commercially store, transport and stack the following:
- Hazardous waste materials (this is what Commercial Recycling use IBCs for)
- Sands and grains
- Healthcare-related items including solid commodities and bio-waste
- Raw materials used in industrial production
- Liquid wastes, including water
- Chemical products, such as oils, solvents, adhesives or detergents
- Paints and industrial coatings
- Liquid, granulated, and powdered food ingredients and syrups
- Agricultural and greenhouse waste
Commercial Recycling deals with the legalities and compliance that comes with handling all waste types, including hazardous waste. From registering your premises with the Environment Agency, to completing the relevant paperwork, you can rely on Commercial Recycling. Contact them here or phone them on 01202 579579 to arrange your waste disposal.
What are the benefits of an intermediate bulk container?
There are many benefits to using IBC containers for waste removal, with the most commonly cited being;
- They provide a reliable, safe and consistent way to handle, store or transport commercial materials.
- IBCs are more effective for storage than round tanks, as they can be stacked on top of each other to save room.
- Despite being slightly less durable than rigid containers, both folding and flexible IBCs take up even less space once empty.
- IBCs are easier to load on pallet stacks and forklift trucks due to their regular shape, which ensures that the contents inside stay safe.
- They can contain a large capacity of waste, which reduces the number of containers required.
- IBC reconditioning systems enable IBCs to be used numerous times, which benefits the environment and saves company budgets.
Hazardous waste boxes
As well as IBC containers, Commercial Recycling also offers an affordable hazardous waste box that is the perfect solution for businesses needing to dispose of much smaller amounts of hazardous waste. This simple, low-cost service is available to all businesses, tradespeople and individuals in the Bournemouth / BH postcode areas.
Our hazardous waste boxes are just £70.00 +VAT.
Learn more about our hazardous waste boxes here >>
Contact Commercial Recycling for your waste disposal
If you would like more information on our hazardous waste containers or would like to arrange waste disposal with Commercial Recycling, you can give our team a call on 01202 579579 or email us at hazwaste@commercialrecycling.co.uk.
Check out our waste disposal prices here >>
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