Bulk bags certainly are a popular packaging solution for large quantities of product such as aggregates and waste. They will have many names which include, Tonne bags, Dumpy bags, FIBC's, Builders bags
The number of sizes and specifications of Bulk bags are vast and each kind will suit another use. The specifications can be quite detailed and technical which can sometimes make it difficult to determine which type will be needed for the required use.
When deciding on the proper type of FIBC, the following points is highly recommended;
- 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 necessary
- The filling, handling, transporting, storing and emptying methods of the FIBC.
See below for a complete rundown of terms because of this popular packaging solution and their meaning. This can create informed decisions concerning the type of bag needed.
Terminology Information
Class of IBC = Single trip, standard duty reusable or heavy duty reusable.
Click here to find out more working load (SWL) = this can be the capacity of the bag and relates to the maximum 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 can usually be shown in external dimensions and in centimetres.
Safety factor = Standard tonne bags will have a safety factor of 5:1, meaning a 1000kg capacity bag is guaranteed never to break, rip or tear with a weight of less than 5000kg. A safety factor of 6:1, is a bulk bag crafted from thicker woven polypropylene body fabric and tested to an increased standard and is generally a durable or multi trip FIBC.
Filling and discharging features
Plain base - This can be a Standard flat base on underneath of the majority bag which makes it cuboid in form. All standard builders bags will 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 a fork lift truck. All FIBCs should come with 4 lifting loops.
Filling inlet - There are two forms 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 near the top of the bag which may be secured around the filling device to avoid any loss of contents, ensuring that all of the contents flow easily into the IBC.
Baffles = Additional internal baffles are sewn onto the corners of the bulk bag. This can help 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 underneath of the majority 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 pertains to the conditions where the FIBC has been manufactured and stored in before delivery to customer. These conditions are based on strict standards which allow the bag to be suitable for use for foodstuffs. Food grade bulk bags usually come with an internal polythene lamination.
There are two main types of food grade conditions;
Clean room = The manufacturing/storage facilities are free of loose threads, dirt and dust. Usually more suited to 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 food grade fibc would work to package food ingredients minus the risk 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 the liner is inserted and the most notable section roll outrageous of the bag to create it more secure.
? Tabbed, liner is stitched in place at the corners to make sure stability in the bag.