Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are a popular choice for storing and transporting liquids in the specialty chemical, refining & petrochemical, paints & coatings, and adhesive & sealant industries. They are durable, reusable, and provide a cost-effective solution for handling large volumes of product. However, like any other piece of equipment, IBCs require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition and avoid costly repairs or replacements. Here are some tips for maintaining your IBCs to save money, improve safety, prevent product loss, pass inspections, and maintain a professional appearance:
- Regular cleaning: Proper cleaning of your IBCs is essential to prevent contamination and ensure that they remain in good condition. Use a suitable cleaning agent and rinse thoroughly to avoid chemical residues that can damage the IBC. Heel is a term that applies to product left inside of the tote when it is done being used. Heel remaining in the tote is bad because not only are you not using all of the product you paid for, but not you are paying to dispose of that product also. Making sure your totes get cleaned out regularly by a professional cleaning company will help keep the parts clean, reduce buildup inside the tote, and reduce your heel cost.
- Check for leaks: Regularly check for leaks or damage to the IBC, paying particular attention to the valve and other fittings. Any signs of leakage can result in lost product and potential safety hazards. Have employees perform a visual inspection each morning to see if the ground under the tote has any puddles of liquids, which is a good indication the tote could be leaking.
- Proper storage: Proper storage of IBCs is essential to prevent damage and ensure they remain in good condition. Store them in a dry, cool area that is protected from direct sunlight and extreme weather conditions.
- Follow guidelines: Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the use and maintenance of IBCs. This will ensure that the IBC remains in compliance with regulatory standards, which can prevent costly fines and potential legal issues.
- Inspections: Regular inspections of your IBCs can help identify potential issues before they become serious. Look for signs of wear and tear, corrosion, and damage that could affect the integrity of the IBC.
- Appearance: Maintaining the appearance of your IBCs can help maintain a professional image for your business. Clean and paint IBCs as needed to avoid rust and other forms of damage as well as create a professional look for your business.
- Retest & Certification: An easy way to avoid being penalized by the Department of Transportation is to ensure your totes are up to date with their certifications. Send your totes into an authorized reconditioner to ensure they are up to date and performing as they should. Premier Container can recondition and recertify your totes to ensure you are compliant and perform as they should.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your IBCs remain in good condition and avoid costly replacements. Proper maintenance can save you money, improve safety prevent product loss, pass inspections, and maintain a professional appearance.
Consider implementing a regular maintenance schedule to ensure that your IBCs remain in good condition and provide reliable performance for years to come.
At Premier Container, we specialize in IBC management services for chemical manufacturers and distributors. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you maintain your IBCs and save money on replacements.
