A popular choice of industrial packaging, flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) are ideal for handling and storing all manner of materials. Used across many industries, they’re particularly well-suited to handling potentially hazardous materials, including flammable powders.
Anti-static bulk bags are designed to prevent sparks and brush charges, which can present a significant risk. An electrostatic change in an environment where solvents and flammable powders are present can lead to a fire or an explosion, leading to injury or death.
FIBCs are available in several varieties to accommodate different applications, with different classifications for each distinct type. The most basic FIBCs offer zero anti-static protection, while others prevent brush discharges. Some FIBCs offer enhanced protection against charges, even without needing to be grounded, making them a convenient choice in more demanding environments.
Along with fulfilling all the same functions as FIBCs standard FIBCs, anti-static bulk bags offer enhanced protection that makes them a suitable choice for more challenging applications.
FIBCs come in several varieties, which are sorted by electrostatic classification. Type A bags are the most basic, offering no electrostatic protection. While they’re still an effective choice for storing and handling a wide range of products, they’re not suitable for situations where sparks can present a hazard risk, such as when working with flammable materials.
Type B FIBCs are another popular option. Made from the same material as Type A bags and boasting a similar construction, the difference here is that Type B containers are made from material with a lower breakdown voltage. The result is a more conductive material. While they don’t have any anti-static properties, Type B bags can provide a degree of protection against propagating brush discharge.
Type C bags are another good choice if you’re looking for containers with anti-static credentials. Their gridded construction helps prevent the build-up of electrostatic energy and sparks when filling and discharging. However, they’re only truly conductive when they’re properly grounded, calling for a need for designated filling stations. Because of their impressive properties, Type C bags are ideal for handling flammable materials and can be used in hazardous environments where vapors and gases are present.
Finally, there are Type D bulk containers. Designed with the most challenging conditions in mind, Type D bags help protect against sparks and brush charges. They also have the added advantage of not requiring grounding when filling or discharging materials. This eliminates the need for filling stations and additional health and safety measures, making them a good option if you’re looking to streamline workflows.
All types of FIBC bags are made from woven polypropylene, an exceptionally strong material that’s both resistant to wear and tear and incredibly strong. However, the construction of FIBCs varies, depending on the type. Type C bags are enhanced with conductive threads that are interwoven through the material, which dissipates static. This prevents charges from occurring, although bags still need to be grounded.
Meanwhile, Type D bags are made from advanced materials and feature quasi-conductive yarns, which are highly effective at dissipating static electricity. Because of the conductive proficiency of these yarns, Type D bags don’t require grounding.
The obvious advantage of anti-static bags like Type C and Type D FIBCs is their electrostatic protection. While both varieties protect against ignition, Type D bags are even more useful thanks to the fact they don’t require grounding. Additionally, anti-static FIBCs boast all the same benefits as standard bulk bags. They’re incredibly durable, making them a good choice for handling heavy loads. They also offer excellent barrier protection, making them suitable for handling high-value materials.
To be declared fit for purpose, anti-static FIBCs need to adhere to ISO standards and strict UN requirements. To be declared truly anti-static, Type C FIBCs need to be fully conductive, with an electrical resistance rating below 100kΩ. Meanwhile, Type D FIBcs need to be made from fully conductive material and need to fulfill even more exacting criteria from bodies such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
While general best practice guidelines apply when handling anti-static bags, more care needs to be taken when dealing with Type C and Type D bags. When filling and discharging Type C bags, the container needs to be grounded to ensure safety. Type C bags feature grounding tabs for this purpose, which can be connected to grounding systems to prevent static electricity from building up on the exterior of the bag. Because Type D features conductive threads throughout, there’s no need for such grounding equipment.
Anti-static FIBCs are used across many sectors, namely industries that regularly handle hazardous chemicals and other substances. They’re a common sight in the chemical manufacturing industry but are also useful in the food sector, where finer foodstuffs can prevent a fire risk when exposed to sparks. They are also employed by the mining industry, where the handling of combustible materials is a daily occurrence.
Type D bags are also utilized by many industries. However, their advanced anti-static protection makes them particularly well-suited to the chemical industry, where combustible powders and flammable chemicals are regularly handled. They also serve the manufacturing sector well, where many materials present a serious fire risk.
If you’re dealing with combustible materials on a daily basis, anti-static FIBCs need to be a staple of your operation. Offering all the functionality and versatility of regular bulk containers, anti-static FIBCs provide reliable protection against electrostatic charges, making them a safe choice for the most challenging of work environments.
At Codefine, you’ll find an impressive range of premium anti-static bulk bags at affordable prices. Made from the highest quality materials and featuring enhanced safety features as standard, it’s easy to minimize safety risks with our anti-static FIBCs. Looking for other industrial packaging solutions? Why not browse our full product range online today? Do you have a question about our products or want to arrange a quote? Get in touch to speak with the team.
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