IBC totes, which are sometimes referred to as IBC tanks, are sizeable tanks that are made for storing large amounts of liquid or fluids. More specifically, IBC tanks are generally built with a 275 gallon or 330 gallon capacity.
In terms of construction, IBC tanks have three distinct parts. There is a plastic container bottle, a metal cage, and a pallet. Depending on the fluid, this IBC pallet is made of wood, metal, or plastic.
Intermediate bulk containers are reusable containers that are used to store or transport liquid chemicals, chemistry solvents, pharmaceuticals, or various food ingredients. IBC totes are also capable of storing corrosive or flammable materials. Examples of food ingredients stored in IBCs include: molasses, corn syrup, granulated products, and powder. Detergents, adhesives, and other petrochemicals are also contained in IBCs, as is rainwater.
One of the most interesting uses of IBC tanks is aquaponics. Aquaponics is a food production system that occurs when aquatic animals are raised along with cultivated aquatic plants in a contained system.
What makes IBC tanks so useful is that they can be stacked on top of each other, or mounted to a pallet. When these bulk containers are held on a pallet, manufacturers use a pallet jack or forklift to transport the IBC totes.
There are a number of unique advantages to storing liquids in intermediate bulk containers. These plastic-based IBCs have a lifespan of over 20 years, making them ideal for the aforementioned aquaponics systems. Additionally, these containers use plastic liners that can be filled, removed, and discharged easily and efficiently.
Because intermediate bulk containers have a cubic shape, they are capable of transporting more liquid than cylindrical containers. Best of all, though, is that manufacturers can ship IBCs to other countries or parts of the country at a relatively low cost.
Here are some used food grade IBC Tanks and ones with new bottles: