Stainless steel IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) containers and systems are widely used in various industries for their durability and functionality in bulk powder handling. These containers are designed to store and transport large volumes of powders, liquids, and granules in a safe and secure manner. IBC systems are constructed using high-quality stainless steel, making them strong, corrosion-resistant, and easy-to-clean. They are available in various sizes and shapes and can be custom designed to fit specific material handling requirements. Stainless steel IBC containers and systems are a popular choice for industries that require bulk processing of powders, such as chemical, pharmaceutical, and food industries.
Material Handling Solutions
Stainless steel IBC containers and systems provide excellent material handling solutions for bulk powders. Some of the key benefits of using these containers include:
- Efficient and reliable transfer of powders from various sources, such as bulk bag unloaders, other IBCs, pneumatic conveyors, and manual dumping
- Lower costs of handling and improved safety
- Increased efficiency in transporting bulk powders
- Custom blending solutions can be designed to meet specific material handling requirements
- Multiple inlet and outlet ports, variable frequency drives for agitators, and other accessories can be incorporated to ensure proper mixing and handling of powders
Stainless steel IBC containers and systems are an ideal choice for material handling of bulk powders in various industries.
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Powder Mixing and Blending
Stainless steel IBC containers and systems are excellent for mixing and blending powders. The process of mixing powders inside of IBC containers is efficient and reliable. With their conical-shaped bottoms, dead zones are minimized and the potential for caking or segregation is greatly reduced. Agitators can also be incorporated into IBC systems to ensure uniform mixing of powders. In addition, IBC containers and systems offer the ability to mix and blend powders on a large scale, which can be cost-effective for manufacturers.
Cut away 3D view of a cone valve inside a stainless steel IBC container
Powder mixing and blending can be done in batches or continuously. Batches are mixed inside the IBC container, while continuous blending is done using external equipment that connects to the IBC system. The IBC container can be used as an intermediate container between multiple pieces of processing equipment, allowing for more efficient powder handling.
Tumble blending is a specialized method of agitating powders inside of an IBC container to create a consistent blend and mix. This is achieved by placing the IBC container, which contains all of the ingredients, inside of a tumble blender. The tumble blender is designed to rotate and lift the IBC container in a specific way that ensures that the powders are evenly mixed.
In Bin Blending of Powders and Ingredients using the IBC Tumble Blender
Tumble blenders are available in different sizes and designs, allowing them to accommodate the size and shape of the IBC container. By using a tumble blender, manufacturers can achieve a consistent blend and mix without the need for additional processing equipment. This saves time, space, and reduces the risk of damage or segregation during the mixing process.
Tumble blending is especially beneficial for delicate powders that require gentle mixing. This method of blending minimizes the risk of segregation, clumping, and other issues that can arise when using other types of mixing equipment.
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Intermediate Containers
Intermediate containers can be used with stainless steel IBC systems to improve the efficiency of powder handling. Intermediate containers are used to store and transport powders in between processing steps, providing a secure and easy-to-handle solution.
Powder ingredient stored in IBC being transported to discharge station
The use of intermediate containers with IBC systems has several advantages. Intermediate containers can be used to store powder for an extended period, reducing the number of times the IBC container is filled and emptied. Intermediate containers can also be used to supply multiple processing lines, reducing the need for additional IBC containers.
Intermediate containers can be made from various materials, such as plastic or stainless steel, and can be designed to meet specific requirements, such as aseptic or sterile applications. The use of intermediate containers can significantly improve the efficiency of powder handling and reduce the risk of contamination in sensitive industries such as pharmaceuticals and food.
Intermediate Bulk Container IBC System for Powder Mixing and Custom Blending
Types of IBC Containers
Stainless steel IBC containers come in various types to meet the requirements of different industries. Two of the most common types of IBC containers are stackable and food grade.
Stainless steel IBC containers that are stackable and food grade
Stackable IBC containers are designed to save space during storage and transportation. These containers can be stacked one on top of the other, reducing the amount of floor space needed for storage. Stackable IBC containers are ideal for industries that require a large number of IBC containers for material handling.
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Food grade IBC containers are used in the food and beverage industry to ensure the safe handling of food products. These containers are constructed using materials that are FDA approved, and they are designed with smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces to reduce the risk of contamination. Food grade IBC containers are ideal for industries that require strict adherence to food safety regulations.
Both stackable and food grade IBC containers are made using high-quality stainless steel and are available in various sizes and shapes to meet specific material handling requirements. The use of these types of IBC containers can significantly improve the efficiency and safety of bulk powder handling in various industries.
Discharge Methods
Discharging powders from stainless steel IBC containers is an essential step in bulk powder handling. There are various types of discharge methods available, including manual, vibratory, and pneumatic. However, the most efficient and reliable discharge method is through a cone valve.
Cone valve eliminates bridging rat-holing segregation of dry mixed powders in an IBC
A cone valve is a hygienic valve that can be incorporated into the bottom of the IBC container. The valve operates using gravity and air pressure to release the powder from the container. Cone valves are beneficial in that they can prevent powder from bridging, rat-holing, or segregating, which can cause significant issues in downstream processing equipment.
Cone valves can be used with a range of downstream processing equipment, including feeders, loss-in-weight feeders, and processing equipment. The discharge process is highly accurate and can be customized to meet specific material handling requirements.
IBC container being lowered onto a discharge station
Conclusion
Stainless steel IBC containers and systems offer many benefits for industries that require bulk powder handling. With their durability, functionality, and cost-effectiveness, IBC containers and systems are a popular choice for chemical, pharmaceutical, and food industries.
If you’re interested in learning more about stainless steel IBC containers and systems, contact us today to speak with one of our sales engineers. We can help you find the right solutions for your powder handling needs and provide expert advice on custom blending and material handling solutions. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of the many benefits that stainless steel IBC containers and systems have to offer.
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