Bulk bags are a popular packaging solution for large quantities of products such as aggregates and waste. They have many names including, ton bags, garbage bags, FIBC, builders bags
The range of sizes and specifications of bulk bags is wide and each type will suit a different use. Specifications can also be quite detailed and technical, which can sometimes make it difficult to determine what type will be needed for the required use.
When deciding on the correct type of FIBC, the following points should be considered;
– Physical or chemical properties of the product intended to enter the bulk bag, such as:
- Required volume
- Weight of the product to contain
- Bulk Density
- Characteristics of the content flow
- Degree of aeration.
- Particle shape and size
- filling temperature
- If food grade is required
– FIBC filling, handling, transport, storage and emptying methods.
See below for a complete summary of the terms of this popular packaging solution and their meaning. This will help make informed decisions about the type of bag needed.
Terminology information
IBC class = Single trip, reusable standard service or reusable heavy duty.
Safe Working Load (SWL) = This is the capacity of the bag and is related to the maximum weight or volume of the product that the bulk bag can safely hold. Usually it will be displayed in kilograms and ranges from 250kg to 2000kg.
Size = This will generally be displayed in external dimensions and in centimeters.
Factor of Safety = Standard ton bags will have a factor of safety of 5: 1, which means a 1000kg capacity bag will not break, tear, or rip weighing less than 5000kg. A factor of safety of 6: 1 is a bulk bag made of thicker woven polypropylene fabric and tested to a higher standard, and is generally a heavy-duty or multi-ride FIBC.
Filling and unloading functions
Flat Base – This is a standard flat base on the bottom of the bulk bag that gives it a cube shape. All standard construction bags will come with a smooth base.
Lifting Loops – Strong loops are sewn into each corner of the bag allowing a forklift to lift and handle it. All FIBCs will come with 4 lift loops.
Fill Inlet: There are two types of fill inlets. They are;
Filling nozzle: a long tube that allows contents to flow easily into the bag
Skirt Top – Additional fabric on the top of the bag that can be secured around the filling device to prevent any loss of content, ensuring that all content flows easily to the IBC.
Baffles = Additional inner baffles are inserted into the corners of the bulk bag. This can help stabilize the bag and make it stiffer and is used specifically for unstable or fluid products.
Discharge nozzle = A tube made of woven polypropylene fabric is sewn into the bottom of the bulk bag. This provides easier flow of the content out of the bag when it is held on a hopper and the content is unloaded.
Food grade = Food grade manufacturing relates to the conditions under which the FIBC has been manufactured and stored prior to delivery to the customer. These conditions are based on strict standards that allow the bag to be suitable for use in food. Food grade bulk bags generally come with an internal polyethylene lamination.
There are two main types of food grade conditions;
Clean room = Manufacturing / storage facilities are free of loose threads, dirt and dust. Usually best suited for poultry seeds and feed
BRC Compliant Food Grade Bulk Bags = Manufactured and stored in strict BRC compliant conditions. This ensures that food grade fiber is suitable for packaging food ingredients without risk of contamination.
Linings: An internal polyethylene liner provides additional protection for the interior content. Liner can be:
- Loosely inserted or flanged
- Handcuffed, where the lining is inserted and the top section is rolled over the top of the bag to make it more secure.
• With tabs, the lining is sewn in place at the corners to ensure stability inside the bag.