Most businesses store and transport hazardous chemicals such as ethanol, methanol, and benzene in intermediate bulk containers. When transporting chemicals, stainless steel IBC totes keep the tank from bursting. To prevent an explosion, the tanks contain a fusible vent that allows vapor to escape whenever the interior temperature reaches a certain level.

Some individuals also use these containers to store and carry water, particularly on building sites or at events when a regular water supply is required but there is no access to a water main. Tote tanks are used in the agriculture industry to transport fertilizer and insecticides. They also store and carry edible foods such as wheat. IBC tanks are used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries to transport tablets, powders, and liquids. They are also capable of storing gasoline, sand, and hazardous garbage.

IBC Tote Varieties

IBC totes are classified into two types: rigid and flexible. Rigid IBCs are constructed from galvanized tubular steel, iron, hard polymers, or a mix of plastics and metals. The flexible IBC tanks, on the other hand, contain a plastic inner liner and a flexible outer shell made of heavy-duty materials such as woven polypropylene or polyethylene. When empty, the sides fold inwards, allowing for convenient packing and shipment. Based on their application or material, IBC totes can be classified in the following ways.

Stainless Steel IBC

Stainless steel tote tanks are corrosion-resistant material that is suited for heavy-duty activities in a variety of industries. They can be used to store and carry large chemicals, flammable liquids, and hot things. Stainless steel totes can transport products by air, sea, train, or automobile. They live for approximately 20 years.

Carbon Steel IBC

Carbon steel IBC is one of the most sturdy and shock-resistant choices. It can be used to store or carry odorous materials such as fragrances, cleaning chemicals, oil, lubricants, paints, and dyes. They are lighter and less expensive than stainless steel tote tanks.

Plastic IBC

Because of its adaptability, plastic IBCs are the most widely utilized choice. They are constructed of high-density polyethylene. Plastic tote tanks are impact resistant and do not corrode.

IBC Tank Heaters

When in transit, these IBC totes include an electric heater that heats the contents to keep them at the right viscosity. It's perfect for honey, biodiesel, and molasses. These tanks include an insulating cloth that may be wrapped around to keep heat from escaping. You won't have to continually reheat it, and you can keep an eye on the tank temperature to ensure it stays within the proper range.

Benefits of Using IBC Tote Tanks

Your packing option will decide how long your products will stay in pristine condition. Purchasing the appropriate storage containers will help you save money and time. Here are some advantages of using IBC tote tanks.

Easy to Transport

To prevent spillage when carrying liquids in drums, lay them on a pallet or shrink-wrap them tightly. However, you can move the IBC tanks without using a pallet. You can even stack them safely on top of one another for easy storage. Most of these IBCs include a sturdy galvanized iron tubular cage that increases stability during travel. You may easily link the containers to a forklift to expedite the unloading of your whole inventory.

Reusable

You can use IBC totes for a long period before replacing them, saving you money in the long run. Tote tanks are thus a more environmentally friendly option. If you no longer need an IBC tank, you can resale it to another user. They will simply need to employ expert cleaners to thoroughly clean the tank before usage to eliminate chemicals, debris, and other potential impurities.

Versatile

IBC tote tanks are produced from a variety of materials, allowing for a wide range of uses across industries. Their capacity spans from 110 to 550 gallons, meeting the majority of commercial and industrial storage and transportation requirements. They are capable of working with industrial chemicals, hazardous materials, and food goods. They can perform additional duties such as beer fermentation in the brewing industry due to their tightly sealing tops.

Durable

IBCs are composed of strong, durable materials that can survive extreme weather conditions. The sturdy construction keeps nails, rust, splinters, and foreign items from damaging the tank and causing leaks. While in transit, the cages protect them from shock and other disturbance. IBC containers can withstand impacts and strains during truck and rail transportation.

Cost-Effective

cargo containers are an expensive investment for organizations that handle bulk cargo. As a result, any solution that can help reduce storage costs will make a significant difference in the long term. Most businesses transport hefty fluids in 55-gallon steel drums. However, the round drum shape leaves a lot of empty room. IBC maximizes space usage, which can assist in lowering storage expenses. 

Affordable

Shipping boxes and IBC containers can be purchased for a fair price online or used for a substantially reduced cost. As a result, they are more accessible to small and starting firms. Because of their adaptability, they can be used in place of more expensive industrial equipment such as mixing tanks and fermenters. You can also hire an IBC tote tank if you just need it for a short period of time. If you only need IBC tote tanks on a seasonal basis, renting them will assist you eliminate non-working assets in your organization.

Summing Up

Different IBC container materials are best suited to specific applications. So, to enhance its efficiency, invest in the proper tote type from iBourg. The totes require little maintenance, but if you use them frequently, you will need to clean them on a regular basis.