Stainless steel IBC tanks : an ideal solution for handling, transport and storage

Benefits for managing liquid products in industry

In today's industrial world, the efficient management of liquids is a crucial issue, affecting sectors as diverse as food, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and many others. At the heart of this management is an essential element: storage and transport tanks. Among the options available on the market, stainless steel IBCs stand out as the solution of choice for complex liquid handling, storage and transport requirements. Their growing popularity is due to a range of technical features and benefits that make them a key tool in modern supply chains.

Advantages of AISI 304 stainless steel in industrial applications

The main material used to manufacture IBCs is AISI 304 stainless steel. This alloy is composed mainly of iron, chromium (around 18%) and nickel (around 8%), giving it excellent corrosion and oxidation resistance properties. This makes the tanks extremely durable, even when exposed to aggressive chemicals, temperature variations or humid environments. AISI 304 stainless steel is also non-reactive, which means it does not interact with most liquids, preserving their purity and preventing any change in taste, odour or quality.

Ergonomics and safety: efficient handling and transport with stainless steel IBCs

Each IBC is housed in a protective cage made of galvanised steel, or stainless steel on request. This cage acts as a reinforced structure around the tank to protect it from shocks, impacts and mechanical stresses during handling or transport. Galvanising the cage provides additional protection against corrosion, which is particularly important when tanks are exposed to the elements or corrosive environments. The design of the cage also allows the tank to be secured while remaining stackable, maximising storage space in warehouses or transport trucks.

The tank base is palletised, meaning it is designed to be compatible with standard handling equipment such as forklifts, pallet trucks or cranes. Fork slots on either side of the base allow quick and easy handling, whether moving, loading or unloading the tanks. This feature makes the tanks extremely practical and versatile, suitable for all industrial environments.

Stainless steel IBCs feature large-diameter hatches (typically 400 mm) with lever-operated quick-release fasteners for easy access to the interior of the tank for filling, cleaning or inspection. They also feature PVC valves designed to provide controlled ventilation or pressure, depending on the needs of the application.

For liquid discharge, the tanks are fitted with ball or butterfly discharge valves (maximum size DN 50 or 2 inches). These valves ensure precise flow control when discharging liquids, and their design is optimised for total emptying, thanks to moulded and inclined tank bottoms to avoid stagnant residues.

Regulatory compliance and safety standards for the safe transport of liquids

Stainless steel IBCs comply with the strictest international regulations governing the transport of dangerous goods. They are certified by the UN, ADR and IRD for intermediate bulk containers (IBCs). These certifications ensure that the tanks have passed rigorous strength and safety tests, guaranteeing safe use during road, rail and sea transport. To ensure optimum tank longevity and avoid any risk of damage during transport, particular attention is paid to the connection between the protective cage and the inner tank. The use of rubber buffers between the tank and the cage absorbs shocks and vibrations, while eliminating the risks of galvanic corrosion that could result from direct interaction between different types of metal.

Specific applications for stainless steel IBCs in the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries

The shape and design of IBC tanks are designed to allow complete evacuation of the liquids they contain. The tank bottoms are cold-pressed to create a natural slope that facilitates the flow of liquids towards the drain valve, minimising product losses and ensuring easy cleaning. This also ensures that the tank does not retain any stagnant liquid, avoiding any risk of contamination or deterioration of stored products. In the food industry, these tanks are ideal for storing and transporting sensitive products such as wine, cider or distillates. Their stainless steel design ensures maximum hygiene, while preserving product quality. In the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, the robustness of stainless steel IBCs guarantees compatibility with a wide range of products, while ensuring compliance with the safety and quality standards specific to these sectors.

Stainless steel IBCs: an ecological and reusable solution for optimum efficiency

Stainless steel IBCs are a first choice solution for any business looking to optimise its transport, storage and liquid handling operations. Their durability, regulatory compliance and ease of handling make them a cost-effective and safe investment for meeting the logistical challenges of modern industries.

→ Discover the stainless steel IBCs available to order

FAQ on stainless steel IBC tanks

Q : Why choose stainless steel IBCs for storing and transporting liquids ?
A : AISI 304 stainless steel IBCs offer high corrosion resistance, compatibility with a wide variety of liquids (food, chemical, pharmaceutical), and increased durability. They are designed for safe and efficient handling, while complying with international transport standards.

Q : What advantages does AISI 304 stainless steel offer over other materials ?
A : AISI 304 is renowned for its resistance to corrosion and oxidation, its durability, and its non-reactivity with most liquids. Unlike materials such as plastic, it does not risk contaminating stored liquids, thus preserving their purity and quality.

Q : How do stainless steel IBCs ensure safety when transporting hazardous liquids ?
A : Stainless steel IBCs are certified to international standards (UN, ADR, IRD), guaranteeing increased safety for the transport of dangerous goods. Their robust design, coupled with a galvanised or stainless steel protective cage, absorbs shocks and vibrations during transport.

Q: What is the added value of stainless steel IBCs for sectors such as food, chemicals and pharmaceuticals ?
A : In the food industry, these tanks guarantee optimum hygiene and preserve the quality of sensitive liquids. For the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, they offer compatibility with various products and increased safety, in compliance with the strict quality standards of these sectors.

Q : Are stainless steel IBCs a worthwhile investment for a company ?
A : Yes, despite a potentially higher initial cost than other materials, the durability, ease of cleaning, reusability and regulatory compliance of stainless steel IBCs make them a worthwhile investment in the long term. They also contribute to improved logistical efficiency and reduced costs associated with frequent damage or replacement.

In conclusion, second-hand water tanks offer a practical and environmentally-friendly solution for water recovery and storage. Their durability, corrosion resistance and versatility make them an attractive choice for a wide range of applications. By considering the benefits and factors to take into account when purchasing and installing, you can take full advantage of the benefits of stainless steel tanks to meet your water needs.

✖ Any doubts about the feasibility of your project?

Please do not hesitate to contact an Arsilac manager if you have any questions or would like more information about stainless steel IBCs. Find the storage or transport solution that best meets your needs.

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Note: This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. It is recommended that you consult experts and comply with the specific regulations of each industry.

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