IBCs are Intermediate Bulk Containers which are used to transport and store a range of solid and liquids. They are generally made from industrial grade plastic and are either rigid or flexible. Their cube shape design makes them easier to store than cylindrical barrels. IBCs are able to hold up to 1000 litres of materials and are available in smaller sizes. It is easy to clean IBCs using IBC reconditioning systems making them reusable and economical for transport companies.The main uses of IBCs are to transport; chemicals, raw materials, granulated food, food syrups, petrochemical products, rain water, paints, pharmaceutical compounds, biological waste and wine. It is vitally important to remove all traces and residue of previous loads to reuse the IBCs. Large haulage companies have their own IBC reconditioning systems on site while smaller businesses use reconditioning services.Intermediate bulk containers are a fairly new invention as they were only patented in 1993 by Belgium inventor Olivier J. L. D'Hollander. There are so many positives to using them that they are quickly replacing traditional cans and barrels. One of the major advantages is that they are dust tight preventing contamination and leakage.
The Advantages Of IBCs
IBCs have many advantages over traditional barrels and other cylindrical transport containers. These include; efficient storage, time saving, reduces waste and recyclable. Intermediate bulk containers are cube shape making storing large quantities easier due to their tessellating shape. Loading and loading - IBCs are easier to load on pallet stacks and fork lift trucks due to their regular shape. This saves time and effort which is essential for and distribution company. They are able to contain a large capacity of product reducing the number of containers required reducing waste. All containers have a residue left which increases with the number of containers used. IBC reconditioning systems enable IBCs to be used numerous times which is good for the environment and company budgets.
IBC Reconditioning Systems
IBC reconditioning systems thoroughly clean and dry the tanks so they can be reused. Challenger has two automated systems to clean IBCs. The first washes and rinses while the second dries the IBCs.
Automatic Drying System
Challenger’s automatic IBC drying system is designed to be loaded at one end and automatically trancers IBCs between each process station. The transfer system uses pneumatics to move the IBC in place. Once it is firmly in place the drying is system is activated. An operator controls the system using a control panel allowing any necessary changes to the processing time. A galvanised steel manifold directs the the hot air into each of the air nozzles. The hot air supply is to be organised by the client unless they request further additions to their order. Other options available include; infeed and outfeed conveyors and hoists, tilt stations, operator platforms and walkways.
Automatic Washing System
Challenger’s automatic IBC washing system washes, drains and rinces used IBCs internally and externally for reuse. The walking beam conveying system ensures the IBCs are in the correct position for the washing process to begin. Each is system is made of modules which are expandable in order to incorporate additional features in the future. The system consists of two parts. First of all the IBC is drained followed by the washing process involving four jets of steaming hot water. This ensures all areas of the tank are thoroughly cleaned and ready for the drying process.If you would like to find out more about Challenger’s IBC reconditioning system contact us and we would be happy to discuss your options.
