A Look at IBC Plastic and Lifespan
Intermediate bulk containers are known for their usefulness and advantage, for their versatility and durability as a solution to storage and transportation needs across many modern industry sectors and consumer niches. Many businesses and individuals alike have the question about the lifespan of IBC totes, particularly the IBCs made from plastic such as rigid poly IBCs and caged IBC totes.
The lifespan of a plastic IBC tote can vary widely and will depend on several points. These include the type of cargo the IBC is used to store, how the tote is maintained, and the environmental conditions it is stored in. With ideal scenarios, IBC totes can last 5 years and longer.
What Influences the Lifespan of IBC Plastic
Materials Stored: The type of material(s) the IBC is used to handle is possibly the greatest factor that will affect the tote’s service life. For example, storing corrosive chemicals can shorten the lifespan of the container, especially when compared to more inert materials such as water, sand, grains, or seeds.
Maintenance: Proper, regular maintenance of an IBC can be important in prolonging the plastic lifespan of an IBC tote. By Including regular cleaning and inspection protocols, you can help identify potential issues and prevent premature deterioration (such as by removing residual product), and therefore extend the useful life of your container.
Environmental Conditions: Exposure to extreme temperatures or extended, high-intensity sunlight can affect the durability of the plastic, potentially leading to a shorter lifespan where extreme temperature means both hot and cold. IBCs should avoid extended temperatures above 120°F, (both internally and externally), and avoid having contents freeze inside the tote as both circumstances can damage the plastic.
- To protect IBC totes and prevent potentially damaging effects, totes are recommended to be stored and handled in a controlled environment, if at all possible. For DIY hobbyists, IBC totes are recommended to be painted, wrapped in plastic, or be kept in a dedicated structure. To prevent freezing, drain the tote or use an IBC tote heater during winter freezing temperatures.
Prevent Damage: Taking the correct measures to prevent damage, such as proper handling, avoiding impacts or dropping, and ensuring IBCs are stacked securely, will contribute to prolonging the useful service life of IBC plastic totes.
Final Thoughts and Inspections
With the right care and handling, plastic IBC tanks can last for many years, maximizing their value and cost-efficiency. Plastic IBC totes are designed for a range of uses and in many instances, intended to be reused. When totes are used only to store water, their useful lifespan can extend for many years.
For certain uses, such as the transport of dangerous and/or hazardous goods, it should be noted that regulations may say plastic IBC containers can only be used for a maximum of five years from the date of manufacture. Additionally, for UN/DOT regulated transit and handling applications, plastic IBCs should undergo a DOT recertification service and testing every 2.5 years to inspect IBCs and certify them for further use.
While the lifespan of a plastic IBC tote will depend on various points, when you adhere to proper handling practices and regulatory guidelines, you can ensure your containers offer reliable service. By understanding the key points that influence IBC lifespan, industries and consumers can unlock the value and longevity of these versatile storage and transport solutions.