If you’re in the market for an intermediate bulk container, or IBC, the first thing you’ll notice is that they come in various materials, most notably plastic, steel, or a poly composite material. The composite IBCs are somewhere between the plastic ones and the steel or metal ones when it comes to strength and durability, but all three IBCs serve a very important purpose because each of them is good for certain products that go inside of it. A sturdy poly IBC is especially good for transporting liquids, and since the typical IBC made out of poly composite holds 275 gallons, you can use these in place of five 55-gallon drums. Saving you money in the long run. Of course, this isn’t the only consideration to pay attention to, but it’s a start.
Things to Consider with Composite IBCs
A poly composite IBC is great for transporting liquids, but there are other advantages as well. Compared to a metal or plastic IBC, the poly ones are a little more lightweight and easier to maneuver. In fact, the poly totes are so lightweight that they are often called “one-way” totes because many businesses use them only one time and then either recycle them or get them refurbished by a company that will recondition them. This is also one of the reasons why they are so inexpensive. Indeed, sometimes buying or leasing brand-new composite totes is less expensive than cleaning and reusing them, which is yet another reason they are so popular.
Steel IBCs are the most durable, of course, but they are also the most expensive of all of the IBC types. The plastic and poly totes are inexpensive but won’t last as long as the steel totes. Still, many businesses use poly totes because once they are reconditioned, they are essentially as good as new. If you’re considering purchasing a poly or plastic tote, therefore, you won’t regret the decision because in many cases, this is a very practical and smart way to transport your product.
Look at All Aspects
Of course, regardless of which type of IBC you choose, you’ll want to check the specifications so that you don’t transport anything you’re not supposed to in this type of totes. With a poly IBC, only liquids with a flash point of above 100 degrees should be transported because poly totes are only rated for packaging groups II and III. Still, as long as you pay attention to these specifications when choosing a poly or even a plastic IBC tote, your product should be safe
and you should have no problems with the job.
