When it comes to finding the right liquid chemical packaging solution for your organization, you cannot simply select the first container you find that seems appropriate. The size and material of liquid packaging containers can play a large role in how safely and reliably your chemicals are stored and/or transported.
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Even the elements of heat, cold, and UV rays can affect the type of packaging that is suitable for your operation. This comprehensive guide will go over the most important aspects of liquid packaging and explain the importance of working with an expert to find the best solution for your needs.
Considerations For Packaging Liquid Products
The first step in identifying the best packaging solution for various liquid chemicals is to understand the specific properties of the chemical in question. The chemical bottling procedure that works for one substance may vary completely from another substance, even if they are similar at the molecular level.
At a minimum, know the following properties and how they affect your choice in liquid chemical packaging.
Temperature
Liquid chemicals must be filled and stored at the proper temperature required to maintain stability. Excessive heat or cold may impact the chemical&#;s performance for the end user. Additionally, certain chemicals also require specialty packaging machines engineered to perform within a certain temperature range. Use the correct machine to ensure the bottling process is smooth from start to finish without any delays or downtime.
Viscosity
Viscosity plays a large role in liquid packaging since it affects three important aspects of the bottling process. The rate at which the chemical dispenses for bottling and packaging is heavily impacted by the viscosity of the chemical. The type of bottle filling machinery used for a chemical must be carefully selected, especially if the chemical is hazardous. The machine must use enough force to fill the bottle without causing splatters or overfilling.
Particulates
If your end liquid product contains particulates, you must consider their impact on the bottling process. The average size of particulates will determine the type of machinery used to fill the containers. The filler must be able to dispense the liquid product and the particulates seamlessly into the container. Otherwise, errors can occur during the bottling process.
Container Size
Once you know the viscosity and temperature of your liquid chemical and size of any particulates, you can move on to determining the proper size for your liquid packaging containers. Container sizes can vary greatly, from just one ounce to millions of gallons. The size of the container will largely be determined by your needs and how you are transporting your liquids.
The most common sizes of small and bulk liquid packaging containers include:
- 1 Pint
- 1 Quart
- 0.5 Gallon
- 1 Gallon
- 2.5 Gallons
- 5 Gallon Pail
- 5-20 Gallon Drums
- 20 to 55 Gallon Drums
- 275 Gallon IBC Totes
- 330 Gallon IBC Totes
Material Options for Liquid Packaging Containers
Numerous material types are available for liquid chemical bottling. Some materials can support various chemicals (even hazardous ones) while others will be limited to a select few.
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC)
For bulk liquid packaging, IBCs are the perfect answer. They can be made of plastic or metal, and vary in flexibility. These pallet mounted containers allow for safe and secure shipment of most types of chemicals in large quantities.
Plastic
Plastic is widely used for chemical bottling because it is sturdy and cost-effective. Plastic is less sustainable than other options, but can hold a wide range of chemicals, meaning it&#;s often a default choice for manufacturers.
Glass
Glass has long been used for small amounts of liquid in need of packaging. It does not corrode, and it provides a safe barrier to store chemicals. It can even be tinted, which is important for photosensitive chemicals. However, glass can easily break and must be handled with great care.
Carbon or Stainless Steel
Metal is an exceptional choice for storing and shipping flammable and combustible liquids. Even most solvents can safely be stored in metal containers. Most commonly, oil, gasoline and petroleum are shipping in metal 55 gallon drums. It is important to note that metal can corrode over time, and it must also be grounded/bonded to prevent igniting a flammable chemical.
Lined Drums
Certain types of chemicals react with metal drums, which indicates a barrier needs to be placed between the container and the chemical. An epoxy lacquer is used to coat the inside of the drum to protect the chemical from any reaction. The pH range for lacquered line drums is limited, so not all chemicals can be stored in this type of container.
Potential Liquid Packaging Hazards
When handling chemicals, challenges and hazards must always be taken into consideration for the safety of employees, shipping crews and customers. Before beginning your liquid packing services, you must identify hazards and determine the packaging capabilities required to handle your specific needs. Some of the most common hazards related to liquid chemicals include the following:
Physical Hazards
Some liquids or chemicals can pose threats known as physical hazards, such as burns, if they come into contact with the skin. These types of chemicals should also be handled by a liquid packaging machine to ensure human interaction (and risk of injury) is limited.
Health Hazards
Any toxic hazardous chemicals must be packaged by a bottle filling machine. These chemicals pose numerous health concerns, so the amount of human interaction must be kept to a minimum.
Environmental Hazards
Your liquid packaging company must remain in compliance with the EPA. Certain chemicals can cause extreme damage to the ecosystem if they leak during shipment or while in storage. The right containers must be selected to ensure any environmental damage is minimal.
Partnering with a Liquid Chemical Packaging Expert
If you have your chemical or blend ready for production, but simply aren&#;t 100% sure you know which size container to use, you may want to consider partnering with a contract manufacturer for your packaging needs. A chemical contract manufacturer, or toll blender, is staffed with industry experts with the experience to know what works and what does not. Rather than going through trial and error, you can ensure you have the right liquid packing solution from the start.
Additionally, while this guide has covered all the bases of liquid chemical packaging solutions, each organization and their chemical bottling needs are unique. Things beyond your packaging, like R&D, logistics and product formulas require custom planning to ensure the chemical or blend remains stable from filling through shipment and to the final end user.
If you are looking for a contract manufacturer to partner with your organization, Royal Chemical is here for you. We can assist you with every step of the process and identify the solutions that are best suited or your organization.
Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with Royal Chemical today and let&#;s get to work identifying the best solutions for your unique chemical product needs.
Bulk liquid containers described, that is what this article is all about!
This knowledge guide is covering types of containers, capacities, applications, as well as how to choose the best right bulk container for liquid shipping.
Let&#;s start!
Table of Content:
Different Types of Liquids and Their Container Needs
Bulk liquid containers are specialized vessels designed exclusively for transporting liquids (fluids). Unlike standard shipping containers, which serve a range of purposes, these containers are tailored for liquid cargo.
Bulk liquid containers are engineered to prevent leaks, spills, and contamination. This ensures safe and efficient transport and storage of various liquids, whether they are hazardous, viscous, or sensitive.
There are several types of containers for transport and storage of liquids, as for example:
The choice of container depends on the characteristics of the liquid that will be transported or stored, and the conditions between sender and receiver (for example, the route, local infrastructure etc.).
Are you looking for the best container solution for viscous liquids and semisolids? Maybe you are not completely satisfied with your current bulk packaging? Discover the Fluid-Bag, made in Finland and used worldwide since , by downloading our e-book!
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Let&#;s get into the container categories, ranging from traditional IBCs to flexitanks.
Intermediate Bulk Containers, also known as IBCs, find use across industries as versatile storage and transport units.
IBC tanks provide valuable means for transporting chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food products, striking a balance between size and maneuverability. They optimize storage and transport efficiency through their stackable design, although they take up as much space even when empty.
For temperature-sensitive products, one can utilize "heating jackets" to regulate the temperature of contents within IBCs.
IBCs normally feature top-loading valves of 150 or 220mm and bottom-discharging valves of 2 or 3 inches, making them suitable for different substances.
IBC capacity varies from 416 to liters (110-536 US gallons), with a standard size that holds liters (275 US gallons).
The dimensions of IBCs are approximately mm (48 inches) in length, mm (40 inches) in width, and mm (46 inches) in height, both when full and empty.
The weight of an empty IBC tank is typical 55,3 kg (122 lbs).
Note, variations are possible since there are a lot of different IBC manufacturers on the container market.
Note: Although the capacity is liters, rigid IBCs are mostly filled to liter.
Please note that the measurements are rounded for simplicity and may vary depending on the manufacturer.
In summary, IBCs prove to be pragmatic tools, effectively adapting to different needs within various industries.
On the downside, intermediate bulk containers are bulky, takes up a lot of space when empty and can be challenging to discharge. Reconditioned IBC tanks needs to be cleaned and washed carefully if the product inside is demanding or viscous.
...and that is why we now will take a look at the flexible IBCs.
Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers, often referred to as Flexible IBCs, offer a new level of versatility in liquid transport.
Flexible IBCs are designed to mirror the dimensions of traditional IBC tanks but introduce innovations that make them adaptable to various needs. They are built for efficiently transporting high-viscosity liquids and thanks to specialized discharge equipment, the amount of waste is kept to a minimum.
Fluid-Bag MULTI
Our multi-trip IBC tote option with a reusable steel pallet and transport bag. A flexible solution also for internal logistics.
Explore MULTI »
The bags feature a seal-tight design, eliminating contamination risks and providing an airtight solution.
Their flexibility not only makes them suitable for a wide range of substances but also offers a space-saving advantage, making them ideal for optimizing storage.
Flexible IBC size/capacity:
IBC size
Capacity
Standard
L (265 US gal)
Range
416- L (110-536 US gal)
Please note that the measurements are rounded for simplicity and may vary depending on the manufacturer.
Flexible IBC capacity is typically liters (265 US gal), with a range of 416 - liters (238 &#; 265 US gal). The Fluid-Bag liquid bulk containers are available in sizes of 900 or liters.
The weight of an empty flexible IBC unit (Fluid-Bag) is in general 36,0 kg (79 lbs), with the pallet included.
Related articles:What machinery is used to make plastic bags?
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Drums and Barrels:
Drums and barrels find their niche in transporting specialty liquids or handling smaller batches.
The open head steel drums feature a removable lid or cover. The removable cover can be sealed with a closing ring to secure the product inside the drum.
The closed head steel drums feature a tight head with no removable lid. The top and bottom are permanently attached to the drum.
However, it's important to note that when dealing with viscous liquids, such as silicone sealants and greases, a lot of residues might be left behind in steel drums when emptying them.
The outside dimensions of a steel drum are typically 23" (584 mm) diameter and 34.5" (876 mm) height.
The weight of an empty steel drum is typical around 22 kg (48 lbs). A plastic barrel weighs 9,8 kg (21.5 lbs), and a 200-liter (55-gallon) fiber barrel weighs 7,25 liter (16 lbs).
Tank Containers:
Tank containers, often referred to as "tanktainers" or &#;ISO tanks&#;, are pivotal in the transportation of bulk liquids.
These containers are engineered with a stainless-steel vessel enclosed by layers of insulation, typically consisting of polyurethane and aluminum.
Another notable feature is their dual loading and unloading capability via top and bottom access points. Tank containers are equipped with top manholes and valves, along with bottom valves, facilitating the connection of hoses for loading and unloading, often requiring pumps.
Tank containers and ISO tanks strictly adhere to safety regulations, making them dependable for transporting a wide spectrum of liquids, including hazardous substances.
The dimensions of a tank container are, in accordance with ISO standards, typically measured about 6.00 meters (20 feet) in length, 2.40 meters (7.9 feet) in width, and either 2.40 meters (7.9 feet) or 2.55 meter (8.4 feet) in height.
Tank container capacity is often in a large range, accommodating liquids from 17,500 to 26,000 liters (- gal).
Flexitanks provide a method of liquid transportation by repurposing standard shipping containers for bulk liquid cargo. One of these flexible bags, or bladders, fit within a 20' DV container, relying on the container's structure to contain the liquid cargo.
Installation of a flexitank typically takes 20-30 minutes, followed by filling, which requires an additional 30-40 minutes. Once filled, the container can be transported via road, rail, or sea to destinations worldwide.
Flexitanks are generally composed of a combination of films, which can include for example a 1 layer of HDPE film and 3 layers of standard LD polyethylene film, sealed multiple times for safety. They incorporate a solid PP woven fabric, a 3" bottom discharge system with camlock adapters, and an overpressure valve for added security.
Flexitanks can have dimensions of x mm (13.1 x 23.8 feet), capacity ranging from 23 520 to 24 480 liters (6.205 to 6.457 gallons), and can endure temperatures from -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to +140°F), monitored via temperature indicators.
Note though that there are many different flexitanks on the market and the specifications can differ.
While flexitanks can offer convenience and cost-effectiveness for non-hazardous liquids like wine and fruit juices, one should evaluate their suitability based on specific transportation needs, considering factors like safety, efficiency, and environmental impact.
Different Types of Liquids and Their Container Needs
Liquid logistics is not just about the containers; it's about matching the right container to the specific liquid, based on its characteristics.
Let us take a look at some different types of liquids to find their ideal match.
Hazardous Liquids:
Containers engineered for hazardous liquids stand as an embodiment of safety and compliance.
These containers conform rigorously to international regulations (UN classifications), enabling the secure transport of substances that encompass chemicals, flammables, and corrosives.
In short, the focus when choosing the right bulk packaging for hazardous liquids is on preventing spillage, leaks, and any potential harm to the environment or personnel.
Non-Hazardous Liquids:
For non-hazardous liquids, the emphasis is on preserving the quality and integrity of the liquid cargo.
Containers optimized for non-hazardous liquids&#;ranging from food products and beverages to pure water&#;ensure that the journey remains contamination-free, maintaining the product's intended state from origin to destination.
Viscous Liquids:
Liquid viscosity might pose challenges during transport.
Containers tailored for viscous liquids are designed to handle varying levels of viscosity, enabling optimal pump flow while minimizing wastage.
Whether it's a thick syrup, sealants or toothpaste, containers like Fluid-Bag FLEXI and Fluid-Bag MULTI ensure that the liquid cargo moves efficiently through the logistics chain.
Sensitive Liquids:
Certain liquids are delicate and require a specialized touch. That's where containers for sensitive liquids come into play.
These specialized vessels cater to liquids like pharmaceuticals and specific chemicals, maintaining the integrity of the cargo throughout the journey. Rigorous measures are often taken to prevent contamination, ensuring that these sensitive substances reach their destination unaltered.
All in all, it is important to keep the container airtight from filling to discharge when it comes to sensitive liquids.
What is a Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container?
Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container is an intermediate bulk container that is flexible instead of rigid. The flexible characteristic of the container means that it can change shape, and therefore it will take up little space when empty (before filling and after emptying).
Applications of Bulk Liquid Containers in Different Industries
Bulk liquid containers stand as central pillars of various industries, facilitating the efficient and reliable transport of diverse liquids.
Let's delve into the array of industries that heavily rely on containers, exploring examples that illustrate their significance.
Industries Embracing Bulk Liquid Containers
Chemical Industry: The chemical industry thrives on precise transportation of various chemicals, including adhesives, sealants, and coatings. Bulk liquid containers provide the stability and containment required to ensure safe transport, protecting both the cargo and the environment.
Manufacturing: Lubricants and grease, essential for machinery and vehicles, find their way into bulk liquid containers. The automotive and manufacturing sectors count on these containers to prevent spillage and contamination, ensuring the lubricants retain their quality during transit.
Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare: Sensitive pharmaceuticals and ointments require utmost care during transport to maintain their characteristics. Containers tailored for sensitive liquids offer airtight solutions, preserving the integrity of these substances and preventing contamination.
Food and Beverage Industry: From juice concentrate to dairy products and bakery fillings, the food and beverage industry relies on bulk liquid containers for the transport of various ingredients. These tanks not only safeguard the quality of the ingredients but also enable efficient distribution for the production process.
Printing and Packaging: Inks and colors utilized in printing and packaging are prime examples of liquids that require specialized handling. Containers suited for these products ensure the precise transport of these substances, preventing leakage and maintaining color consistency.
Examples of Applications
Adhesives & Sealants: The adhesive and sealant industry hinges on the precise application of these substances. The right bulk liquid containers ensure controlled transport, preventing premature curing and ensuring that these materials reach their destinations in optimal condition.
Coatings & Paints: The coating and paint industry benefits from containers that prevent contamination and maintain the homogeneity of the mixtures. Modern containers ensure that these liquids are delivered in the right consistency for flawless application.
Lubricants & Greases: In various sectors, lubricants and greases are the lifeblood of machinery. Here, containers provide a spill-proof and contamination-free means of transporting these essential substances, assuring smooth operation. This is especially important for food-graded lubricants.
Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics: Sensitive pharmaceuticals and ointments need containers that preserve their integrity. Tanks and flexible IBCs equipped with airtight features offer the protection needed to ensure the potency of these substances remains intact.
Food Ingredients: The food industry relies on the precise transport of various ingredients. Food-graded containers secure the quality of these components, ensuring that the end products meet the desired standards.
In conclusion, the applications of bulk liquid containers span a wide array of industries, each with its unique requirements.
Choosing the Right Bulk Container for Liquid Shipping
The decision of what type of container that should be used hinges on various factors.
In the following section, we dive into some of the most considerations and best practices of selecting the ideal container for liquid shipping and storage.
Factors Influencing Container Selection
Let's explore the most crucial factors in detail.
1. Liquid Characteristics
The liquid itself play a vital role in determining the suitable container. Variables such as viscosity, hazard level, and sensitivity define the selection process.
The chosen container must flawlessly align with the specific attributes of the liquid being transported.
2. Regulations and Compliance
Safety and adherence to global regulations stand as non-negotiable elements. Containers must conform to international standards, especially when transporting hazardous substances.
Ensuring compliance with stringent rules ensures both the safety of the cargo and the adherence to legal mandates.
3. Cost-Effectiveness
Container selection should encompass not only the initial cost of procurement but also the entire logistical lifecycle. This involves factoring in costs related to transportation, storage space utilization, cleaning, and maintenance.
A comprehensive cost assessment ensures that the chosen container is not only fit for purpose but also economically viable.
4. Storage Space
The chosen container should fit seamlessly into available storage areas, whether during transportation or at various points along the supply chain.
Efficient stacking, compactness, and adaptability to different storage environments contribute to the overall effectiveness of the container.
More on this topic: Get More Storage Space with Fluid-Bag
5. Cleaning and Maintenance
Some containers require thorough cleaning and maintenance between uses, which can impact downtime and costs.
The extent of cleaning and maintenance must align with operational goals and the nature of the liquid cargo, whether it's hazardous, sensitive, or non-hazardous.
Which is the Best Bulk Packaging for Liquids?
The best bulk containers for liquids are Fluid-Bag flexible IBC containers ( liter / 265 US gal.).
...at least if you ask us!
Addressing Space Challenges: The dilemma of IBCs, steel drums, and barrels occupying considerable space even when empty can be mitigated. Unlike their rigid counterparts, flexible IBCs from Fluid-Bag efficiently utilize space. A mere 2.5 square meters can house 20,000 liters' worth of Fluid-Bag containers, an exemplar of space optimization.
The Significance of Size: Size can matter in liquid logistics. Consider this: 4-5 drums are equivalent to a single Fluid-Bag container. The implications are clear; Fluid-Bag's -liter flexible IBC streamlines handling processes, reducing the complexity compared to drums or barrels.
The Advantage of One-Way Transports: For lengthy one-way transports, disposable IBC solutions like the Fluid-Bag FLEXI shine. With no return-transport costs and zero necessity for washing or re-conditioning, these containers stand as cost-effective and time-efficient options.
Read more about the Fluid-Bag concept: Why Fluid-Bag
Optimizing Container Quantity in Shipping
Efficiency in liquid logistics extends beyond the choice of individual containers.
Let's dig deeper into the art of maximizing container capacity for enhanced logistical outcomes.
IBCs in Shipping Containers
The traditional 20-foot shipping container serves as a confined canvas for container arrangement.
When it comes to standard Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), a standard 20-foot container accommodates 18 IBCs in total. Among these, 10 IBCs, each holding liters (275 US gal), create the solid foundation on the container floor, forming the bottom layer. Above, 8 more IBCs are placed.
Fluid-Bag Containers: Efficient Transport Amplified
A 20-foot container has the capacity to hold approximately 20 filled Fluid-Bag containers, each holding 900 liters (237 US gal). When delivered empty and flat-packed, a standard truck or autotruck can accommodate an impressive 260 empty Fluid-Bag FLEXI containers.
The effectiveness of transporting empty Fluid-Bag containers drastically reduces the number of trips needed, cutting down both fuel consumption and operational time.
In essence, whether it's maximizing the use of IBCs within standard containers or leveraging the space efficiency of Fluid-Bag containers, the goal remains the same: streamlined logistics that bolster cost savings, reduce environmental impact, and ensure the seamless journey of liquid cargo.
Conclusion: Bulk Liquid Containers
This comprehensive guide has explained the world of bulk liquid container types, capacities, and applications, equipping you with the knowledge needed to navigate this landscape.
Here are some last ideas for summary, when choosing the right transport units for your needs:
- Analyzing the Liquid: Remember to start with the basics: analyze the characteristics of the liquid itself. Viscosity, hazard level, and sensitivity lay the groundwork for the ideal container choice.
- Destination Matters: Consider not only what's being transported but also where it's going. Whether it's a short internal journey or a lengthy one-way transport, the choice of container can significantly impact the outcome.
To summarize, each container type holds its own advantages, catering to specific requirements across industries.
We hope you enjoyed this guide and would like to read more about the Fluid-Bag concept, or find other articles in our knowledge hub, or by following our LinkedIn page.
Are you looking for the best container solution for viscous liquids and semisolids? Maybe you are not completely satisfied with your current bulk packaging? Discover the Fluid-Bag, made in Finland and used worldwide since , by downloading our e-book!
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