IBC Totes Overview and 3 Ways They Can Cut Costs

Intermediate Bulk Containers Overview

Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are containers designed to optimize the storage and handling of bulk materials. Various configurations and materials are available to suit different needs. Here's an overview of the different types and materials used in IBC containers.

In addition, IBCs come with either rigid sides or flexible sides that may be folded inward when the unit is empty, allowing the IBC to collapse into a much smaller package for either shipping or storage.

IBCs can be rigid or flexible. Rigid IBCs are made from durable materials and maintain their shape, while flexible IBCs can be folded inward when empty, reducing their storage footprint. This flexibility allows for efficient shipping and storage.

IBC Totes: Sizes and Configurations

IBC totes are available in various sizes, commonly the 275-gallon and 330-gallon models. These sizes are standardized to facilitate compatibility with handling equipment and storage systems. The 45” x 45” base dimensions are fixed to optimize space and ensure efficient stacking, transport, and storage.

Compared to 55-gallon drums, IBC totes offer several benefits and advantages:

• Space Efficiency: IBCs' cube shape and stackable design help maximize storage efficiency. For instance, four 330-gallon IBCs can replace twenty-four 55-gallon drums, effectively saving two pallet spaces.
• Ease of Use: Most IBCs feature built-in taps or valves at the bottom for easy product removal, along with a larger top opening for filling. This design reduces the complexity and labor associated with handling materials.
• Versatility: IBCs can be customized to various heights to accommodate different volume needs while maintaining standardized base dimensions for easy handling and transport.

IBC totes provide significant benefits in storage efficiency, ease of handling, and versatility, making them a valuable choice for bulk material management across various industries.

Or the tote may be lifted on the blades of a forklift at an angle to accomplish the same purpose. Unfortunately, either approach may result in an industrial accident such as a strained back caused by lifting the tote or crushed fingers from a falling IBC.

To salvage that residual product, experienced tote owners use a lift that allows the operator to load the IBC onto a frame and gradually tilt the tote as the product pours out.

Tip #2: Eliminate Tote Cleaning Fees

Cleaning IBCs in-house can significantly reduce costs compared to outsourcing cleaning services or paying cleaning fees for leased totes. Here's how:

• Reusable Cleaning Solutions: To further cut costs, consider reusing caustic cleaning solutions for multiple cycles, depending on the soil's nature. This approach extends the life of the cleaning agent and reduces overall cleaning expenses.

An alternative solution is to clean the tote yourself and eliminate these fees.

1. The drain is opened again, emptying the caustic cleaning agent from the tote.
2. A final freshwater rinse removes all remaining particles and cleaning fluids from the tote.

While the caustic cleaning fluid is typically sent to drain after the wash cycle is complete, some IBC tote operators will save even more money by reusing the cleaning solution for multiple cleaning process cycles until it loses efficiency. The ability to do this will vary, depending on the nature of the soil being removed in the tote.

Tip #3: Use Tote Stands for Product, Time, and Labor Savings

Implementing tote stands can streamline your product transfer processes and lead to significant savings:

• Efficiency Gains: Tote stands to elevate and tilt the IBC, allowing for efficient product transfer without needing forklifts. This method improves product recovery and reduces labor costs associated with manual handling.
• Automation Benefits: Automated tote stands with integrated systems like pumps, flow meters, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) can automate the transfer process. This setup enhances efficiency by managing product flow and reducing manual labor. Automated systems also offer features like level indication and batch control, ensuring precise and safe operations.
• Customization Options: Choose from various configurations for tote stands, including manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic options. Customizable features such as automatic tilting, level monitoring, and multiple pump options can further tailor the system to your needs, enhancing overall efficiency and safety.

By implementing these strategies, businesses can optimize their use of IBC totes, reduce operational costs, and improve overall efficiency.

Typical tote stand options

Tote stands work with a variety of bulk containers and drums. Various pump configurations are available to meet specific needs. Additional options include—

• Manual, semi-, or fully automatic product delivery, in either batch or continuous modes
• Automatic tilting
• Level indication, metering, or weighing
• Various controls integration options
• Drum unloading option
• Mobility and CIP configurations
• Multiple pump options
• Various product-contact surface materials and finishes are available

IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) FAQs

What types of materials can be stored in IBC totes?

Intermediate bulk containers, including IBC totes, are versatile and can store a wide range of materials. These include liquids, semi-solids, and powders. IBCs are suitable for storing both non-hazardous materials, such as food products and cleaning solutions, and hazardous materials, such as chemicals and paints. The choice of IBC type—whether it's a metal IBC, rigid plastic IBC, or flexible IBC—depends on the specific requirements of the stored material, including chemical compatibility and durability.

Are IBC totes suitable for use in the food processing industry?

Yes, IBC tote tanks are highly suitable for the food processing industry. Food-grade IBCs, typically made from durable plastic or stainless steel, comply with stringent hygiene and safety standards. They are used to efficiently store and transport bulk food products and other consumable items while ensuring easy cleaning and contamination prevention.

How do I choose the right IBC tote for my application?

Selecting the right IBC container involves considering several factors:

• Material Compatibility: Choose between metal IBCs, rigid plastic IBCs, or other materials based on the chemical or physical properties of the stored material.
• Size and Capacity: Consider the IBC tank size that fits your storage needs, such as a 275-gallon or 330-gallon IBC tank. For smaller containers, consider folding IBCs or compact designs.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the IBC meets industry-specific regulations, including UN DOT for hazardous materials or food-grade standards for consumables.

Can IBC totes be used for both liquid and dry materials?

Yes, rigid intermediate bulk containers, including IBC tote tanks, are designed to handle both liquid and dry materials. For liquids, IBCs often feature built-in taps or valves for easy dispensing. For dry materials, such as powders or granules, IBCs can be equipped with discharge mechanisms to facilitate smooth handling.

How do I maintain and clean IBC totes?

Maintaining and cleaning IBC tanks is essential for ensuring product quality and compliance. Specialized equipment like the TrueClean® ToteCleaner™ can efficiently clean the interior surfaces of rigid IBC totes. Regular inspection, maintenance, and removal of residual materials help prolong the life of your IBC containers.

Are there options for customizing IBC totes to meet specific needs?

Yes, IBC containers can be customized to meet specific requirements. Options include various sizes, materials (e.g., rigid plastic, metal), and features such as automatic tilting, enhanced durability, or integration with pallet jacks for easier handling. Customizations can be tailored for specific applications in the supply chain, such as food processing, chemical handling, or bulk storage.