What are IBC containers?

Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC) are standardized containers used for the storage and transportation of liquid, pasty or powdery materials. They are usually made of plastic or steel and have a capacity of 500 to 1000 liters. Transport handling of liquid goods is particularly uncomplicated with this type of container. IBCs are characterized by relatively low acquisition costs and are optionally available with UN approval for hazardous goods transport.

Most IBCs consist of a cubic or rectangular container surrounded by a metal frame or plastic frame. The container usually has an opening at the top through which the material can be poured, and a discharge tap or pump at the bottom through which the material can be removed.

Advantages of IBCs

IBCs are widely used in the industry and offer numerous advantages. These include:

• Efficiency: IBCs can carry large volumes of material per shipment, resulting in a reduced need for transportation and therefore cost savings.
• Safety: IBCs are typically made of robust materials and offer a high level of protection for the material during transport and storage.
• Handling: IBCs are easy to handle due to their standardized size and shape and can be loaded, unloaded and stored quickly.
• Sustainability: IBCs are usually reusable and can be cleaned and reused after emptying, resulting in less environmental impact and waste.

Due to their numerous advantages, IBCs are widely used in many industries, including chemical, food, pharmaceutical and agricultural.

What are the different types of IBCs?

There are several types of IBCs to choose from, depending on the intended use:

• Combination IBC: This type of container consists of a pallet with a plastic tank and a simple mesh cage or tubular frame. Under dangerous goods legislation, they are classified as intermediate bulk containers.
• Plastic IBC: This variant is not used very often in filling. The container here consists of a free-standing plastic tank and weighs considerably more than a combination IBC due to the thicker walls.
• Metal IBC: In the chemical, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food industries, these containers are used because they are very robust. They are usually made of stainless steel and recycling is easy.
• Heatable IBC: For the transport of temperature-dependent goods, these electrically heatable containers, which are based on the metallic IBCs, are used. Goods with up to 180° C can be transported.
• Foldable IBCs: Foldable IBCs have been developed to meet the high demands of hygiene and safety in the food industry. They enable cost-efficient transport and storage of fruit concentrates, fruit preparations, dairy products and other liquid and viscous products.