Intermediate Bulk Containers

 With the increase in modification of forms of different food products, there has to be a modification even in the storage, packaging and transportation processes in food industries. Intermediate bulk containers can be an important mode to bring a revolution in this sector. As mentioned above, due to their compact and flexible construction, the IBCs can store large quantities of material without deterioration of the food products, especially during transportation. Intermediate Bulk Containers (also known as IBC Tanks, IBC Containers, IBC, or Pallet Tanks) are industrial-grade containers designed for the bulk handling, transportation, and storage of liquids, semisolids, pastes, or solids. The two main categories of IBC tanks are flexible IBCs and rigid IBCs. Many IBCs are reusable and can be cleaned and reused. There are different types of intermediate bulk containers. This article talks about the types and features of intermediate bulk containers.

Types of materials used to make intermediate bulk containers:

1. Wood/Timber
2. Plastic (High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Polypropylene)
3. Wood-Plastic Hybrid
4. Stainless Steel
5. Carbon Steel
6. Metals like Aluminium, and galvanized iron
7. Plastic-Metal hybrids

Types of IBC containers:

1. Rigid     IBCs: These are cubic in shape. The inner containers are made of HDPE or metals such as aluminum or galvanized or hybrid iron. These are designed to hold their shape during food storage and transportation. These are inexpensive and can be easily transported from one point to another. They can move the most dangerous and valuable chemicals over vast expanses of land and water without spilling them. These IBCs can be easily reinforced, preventing vapors from escaping.
2. Folding IBCs: FIBC inner containers are made of durable plastic that can be folded in when empty. These IBCs do not have an outer cage. These have a capacity of approximately 1000 liters. Under the containers is a flexible bag that is suitable for storing and transporting liquid or free-flowing powder material. These IBCs can be used to store more solid and liquid materials for easier transportation.
3. Flexible IBCs: Flexible IBCs are also called bulk bags, which are made from heavy materials like polypropylene or polyethylene (woven polyethylene bags). They can also be made of aluminum. They consist of four tubular elements sewn together throughout. When filled with food, flexible IBCs take a cubic shape. There is a discharge point at the bottom of each bag, which helps to dose material easily. These are easy to manufacture and have high strength. They also improve flow control and prevent products from spilling.

For more articles on food Marketing, agrotech, and technology related to the Indian food industry, check out FMTmagazine. FMT Magazine is an edition of the German publication. It is a comprehensive food and beverage magazine that connects the buyers and the sellers through content that is of international quality. The magazine over the entire spectrum of the food industry including content on policies. FMT Magazine stands for Food Marketing & Technology Magazine. The magazine carries articles on ingredients, processing, packaging, food safety, and marketing, along with interviews with top personalities in the Indian food industry.