Potential Drawbacks of IBC Containers
While intermediate bulk container tanks are widely acclaimed for their versatility and efficiency in service applications, the totes are not without their potential drawbacks. Here we will consider the potential disadvantages of IBCs to help you in your decision-making process and whether IBC tanks are the right fit for your specific needs.
- Weight Constraints: IBC tote containers can be quite heavy when filled to capacity, and this can make them challenging to move without a capable vehicle or the appropriate equipment.
- Limited Resilience to Certain Chemicals: While IBCs are generally resistant to a wide range of chemical commodities, certain chemicals may cause degradation and damage to the tote over time. This can lead to a potential compromise of the tank’s integrity, therefore making it important to verify chemical and IBC tote material compatibility prior to use.
- Potential for Contamination: (While application specific), if not thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between uses, the IBC tank could harbor contaminants that might affect the quality of the IBC’s next cargo.
- Difficulties with Disposal: Disposing of used IBCs can be difficult due to their size, the materials used in their construction, and what the IBC was used for. However, there are many companies that specialize in this field, making this less problematic.
- Regulatory Restrictions: There are detailed regulations that cover the use of IBC tanks, particularly when used for storing and transporting hazardous materials. If an IBC is used in non-compliance, it can lead to penalties for the company. However, this is no different from shipping drums and other containers used for hazardous materials.
- Limited Lifespan for Certain Uses: For specific uses, such as dangerous goods transport, regulations may stipulate that an IBC tank can only be used for a maximum of five years from the date of manufacture. Again, this is similar to the regulations in place for other similar shipping containers.
Despite these potential drawbacks, many of these concerns can be lessened or eliminated through proper equipment, maintenance, regular inspections, and by adhering to regulatory guidelines. Before investing in IBC totes, weigh these considerations against the numerous benefits they offer, as many find the benefits of IBCs to outweigh their disadvantages.
For more information, read our post on How to Select the Right IBC Container.