Bulk bags certainly are a popular packaging solution for large quantities of product such as aggregates and waste. They will have many names such as, Tonne bags, Dumpy bags, FIBC's, Builders bags
The range of sizes and specifications of Bulk bags are vast and each kind will suit a different use. The specifications can be quite detailed and technical that may sometimes ensure it is difficult to determine what type will be needed for the required use.
When deciding on the proper type of FIBC, the next points should be considered;
- Physical properties or chemical properties of the intended product to go inside the bulk bag, such as for example:
? Required volume
? Weight of product to be contained
? Bulk density
? Contents flow characteristics
? Degree of aeration
? Particle size and shape
? Fill temperature
? Whether food grade is required
- The filling, handling, transporting, storing and emptying methods of the FIBC.
See below for a full rundown of terms because of this popular packaging solution and their meaning. This can help to make informed decisions about the type of bag needed.
Terminology Information
Class of IBC = Single trip, standard duty reusable or heavy duty reusable.
Safe working load (SWL) = this is actually the capacity of the bag and relates to the utmost weight or level of product that the bulk bag can hold safely. It will usually be shown in kilograms and ranges from 250kg - 2000kg
Size = This will usually be shown in external dimensions and in centimetres.
Safety factor = Standard tonne bags could have a safety factor of 5:1, meaning a 1000kg capacity bag is guaranteed never to break, rip or tear with a weight of significantly less than 5000kg. A safety factor of 6:1, is a bulk bag crafted from thicker woven polypropylene body fabric and tested to a higher standard and is usually a durable or multi trip FIBC.
Filling and discharging features
Plain base - This is a Standard flat base on underneath of the majority bag which makes it cuboid in shape. All standard builders bags should come with an ordinary base.
Lifting loops - Strong loops sewn into each corner of the bag which allows it to be picked up and manoeuvred by way of a fork lift truck. All FIBCs should come with 4 lifting loops.
Filling https://www.groundworksandplanthire.co.uk/best-mini-digger-hire-devon/ - There are two types of filling inlets. They are;
Filling spout - A long tube which allows the contents to flow in to the bag easily
Skirt top - Additional fabric at the top of the bag which can be secured round the filling device to prevent any lack of contents, ensuring that all the contents flow easily in to the IBC.
Baffles = Additional internal baffles are sewn onto the corners of the bulk bag. This assists to stabilise the bag and make it more rigid and are specifically used for unstable or fluid products.
Discharge spout = A tube made out of woven polypropylene fabric is sewn onto the bottom of the bulk bag. This provides an easier flow of the contents out the bag when held over a hopper and the contents discharged.
Food grade = Food grade manufacturing relates to the conditions where the FIBC has been manufactured and stored in before delivery to customer. These conditions derive from strict standards which allow the bag to be ideal for use for foodstuffs. Food grade bulk bags usually come with an internal polythene lamination.
There are two main forms of food grade conditions;
Clean room = The manufacturing/storage facilities are free of loose threads, dirt and dust. Usually more suitable for bird seed and animal feed
BRC compliant food grade bulk bags = manufactured and stored in stringent conditions that meet the BRC standards. This ensures the meals grade fibc is suitable to package food ingredients without the threat of being contaminated.
Liners - An internal polythene liner provides added protection for the contents inside. Liner can either be:
? Inserted loosely or tabbed
? Cuffed, where in fact the liner is inserted and the very best section roll over the top of the bag to create it more secure.
? Tabbed, liner is stitched in place at the corners to ensure stability in the bag.