Plastic

Plastic IBC Tote Information

Plastic IBCs are generally reusable, versatile containers engineered for storing, transporting, and/or handling various industry materials and in semi-bulk quantities. Rigid high density polyethylene (HDPE) IBC totes are reliable, strong, and functional containers, both effective and chemically compatible across a multitude of applications. Poly IBCs are widely used throughout industries and sectors.

IBC Tanks offers a variety of plastic IBC models, capacities, as well as customizable options to meet and exceed the demands of the many applications that plastic IBCs are used for.

Capacities are available from 120 gallons to 550 gallons based on tote style. Most IBCs are rated to 1.9 specific gravity (SG), with some 1.35 SG totes available. Plastic IBC models available include:

• Galvanized Steel Caged IBC
• Standard Square Stackable
• Premium Square Stackable
• Wide Mouth Square Stackable
• Ultratainer
• Wide Mouth Ultratainer
• Megatainer
• Megatainer LX
• Excalibur

Plastic IBC Manufacturing and Standards

Plastic IBC totes are produced according to current laws and regulations, including Title 49 CFR. All poly IBCs are made in the USA from industrial-grade HDPE resin that is FDA food grade certified and are ANSI / NSF Standard 61 approved for potable water applications. UV stabilizers are integrated during manufacture to resist sunlight degradation for all indoor, outdoor use.

Although IBC resin is food grade certified, other tank components may not be. Our IBC tanks can be manufactured to full food grade standards for consumables. Manufacture would include materials compliant to FDA Title 21 CFRs 177.1520, 177.2600, 178.3297, and/or 178.2010. Compliant components may include constituents within the tank material, gaskets, caps, and/or valves.

All plastic IBC tanks are DOT/UN approved and certified per UN31H1, UN31HA1/Y or UN31H2, depending on IBC tote model. The IBCs we offer are all approved for Packing Group II and III materials. All IBCs feature permanently molded UN/DOT labels for increased legibility excluding caged IBC totes.

Each polyethylene IBC features an automatic vacuum vent that relieves internal pressure buildup with no manual operation required. All IBC tanks include forklift and pallet jack access for increased product maneuverability and are stackable.

HDPE IBC Container Applications

High density polyethylene IBCs see extensive use within a wide range of industries, sectors, and consumer niches. The functional and highly effective engineering of polyethylene IBCs makes them suitable and successful for many applications. Plastic IBC totes are employed by wholesalers, distributers, suppliers, bulk material handlers, as well as a host of commercial and individual operations. Common applications include:

• Agriculture
• Horticulture
• Aquaculture
• Industrial Chemical
• Manufacturing and Process
• Oil and Gas, Petrochemical
• Material Refineries
• Offshore Platforms
• Water Treatment
• Paints, Coatings and Dyes
• Consumer Products
• Flavors, Fragrances and Additives
• Construction Operations
• Road, Asphalt Work
• Lubricants and Greases
• Food and Beverage
• Pharmaceutics

Please note that no material is completely resistant to everything. High density polyethylene plastic is resistant to many chemicals and materials but is not compatible with particular chemicals. Potential events that could occur include tank corrosion or failure, formation of dangerous gases, or material degradation. Always certify the compatibility of the storage container and the intended cargo material.

Plastic IBC Characteristics

Polyethylene IBC tanks are designed for the specialized handling of various bulk cargo materials and are engineered for the handling of hazardous and non-hazardous liquids, semi-solids, and solid, granulated materials.

IBC containers have many characteristics that make them suitable for their various potential applications. All but caged IBCs are designed for extensive reuse, especially if reuse is with the same material. Poly IBCs’ strength and reusability makes them much more cost-effective across their service lives when compared to standard cylindrical drums.

Polyethylene IBCs are made from industrial strength HDPE and most are rated to 1.9 SG. HDPE IBCs are seamless and durable containers capable of withstanding the weight and corrosion characteristics of many chemicals and materials as well as potential environmental effects or physical impacts. Poly IBC containers ensure and protect the quality of their cargo and products.

Plastic IBC handling containers do not rust, are durable against impacts, punctures, and tears, are easy to use and maneuver, and can withstand the pressures and stresses of logistics and transport. Materials can be stored and handled with limited risk and waste. The tank design promotes product safety. Inflow and outflow engineering promotes zero waste from spillage or overflow.

The cubic shape of IBC totes potentially allows more material to be transported within the same space as a pallet of drum containers. IBCs also allow processes to be performed more quickly, efficiently, and in less steps.

All IBCs are stackable, and the stacking system provides less handling, better storage solutions, and multiple system integration. Intermediate bulk containers have a significant potential to lower disposal costs and reduce overall physical waste due to reuse and recyclability.

Rigid HDPE Plastic IBC Specifications

Galvanized Steel, Caged IBC Totes

Caged IBC totes are highly portable HDPE plastic tanks with a galvanized steel frame support and integrated pallet. They are offered in 275 gallon and 330 gallon capacities and rated to 1.9 specific gravity for dense products. Caged IBC totes are DOT/UN 31HA1/Y approved for hazardous and non-hazardous materials.

The internal plastic container is blow mold manufactured from NSF 61 approved, FDA food grade HDPE resin suitable for potable water and food industry applications. High density polyethylene manufacture provides resistance and durability to various chemicals, corrosion, rust, and impact. The galvanized steel frame provides structural stability, rigidity, and increased impact resistance.

Poly caged intermediate bulk containers are molded to a thinner wall thickness than the other IBC models. Caged IBCs are often one way, one use in transport, then cleaned or recycled. Standard Features include:

• 6″ Threaded, Vented Fill Cap
• 2″ Draining Port Ball Valve
• Quick Connect Cam Coupler
• Corrosion / Impact / Rust-Resistant Galvanized Steel Frame
• Chemical Compatible HDPE Liner
• Integrated Pallet Base
• 4-Way Fork, 4-Way Jack Access

Square Stackable

Square stackable IBC tanks are standard all plastic intermediate bulk containers that have been rotationally molded from quality virgin HDPE to a 1/2″ thick tank sidewall. This increase in tank thickness provides considerable more product durability and promotes a long service life. Square stacking IBCs are available in standard, premium, and wide mouth variants.

Square stackable IBCs are rated for dense, corrosive chemicals up to 1.9 specific gravity, with tank capacities available from 120 gallons to 330 gallons. All square stackable IBCs are DOT/UN 31H2/Y approved according to Title 49 CFR. Rotational molding eliminates seams and limits corrosion and maintenance concerns associated with inferior products or poly-composite tanks.

Standard model square IBCs are manufactured with a heavy duty base that provides over 30% more bottom tank protection and wider forklift channels to reduce damage probability. Standard model bases reduce overall tank height and are less expensive and easier to replace than premium model bases. The heavy duty base comes in black with different color options available upon request. Standard features include:

• 6″ Heavy Duty Screw Cap
• 2″ Integrated Vacuum Vent
• 2″ Draining Port Ball Valve
• Quick Connect Cam Coupler
• 1 – 2 Replaceable Bung Locations
• Integrated Fluid Level Markers
• Top Head Protective Ribs
• Heavy Duty Base
• 4-Way Fork, 2-Way Jack Access

Premium Square Stackable

Premium square stackable IBCs have the features of the standard model but offer additional customizations and tank fitting options not available to the standard model. The pallet bases of premium models come in standard red and include safety forklift channels. Standard features include:

• 6″ Heavy Duty Screw Cap
• 2″ Integrated Vacuum Vent
• 2″ Draining Port Ball Valve
• Quick Connect Cam Coupler
• 1 – 2 Replaceable Bung Locations
• Integrated Fluid Level Markers
• Top Head Protective Ribs
• Premium Base with Safety Forklift Channels
• 4-Way Fork, 2-Way Jack Access

Wide Mouth Square Stackable

Wide mouth square stackable IBCs feature an 18″ lid opening that allows full interior access for mixing of the stored material, cleaning, drying, and sanitization. Capacities available include 220, 275, and 330 gallons. Wide mouth stackable IBCs are available on request.

Wide mouth stackable IBCs are often utilized for traffic marking, line striping, paints, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, inks and dyes, adhesives and coatings, lubricants, and in the food industry for food, beverage, as well as wine and spirits.

These IBC tanks feature the square stackable premium base but can be manufactured with the heavy duty standard model on request. Standard features include:

• 18″ Threaded Poly Lid with Clamp Ring
• Polyethylene Sanitary Gasket Closure
• 2″ Bottom Drain with Camlock Quick Connect
• Fully Sloped Tank Bottom
• 2″ Vent with EPDM Gasket
• 2″ Replaceable Bung, Plug, EPDM Gasket
• 4-Way Fork, 2-Way Jack Access

Ultratainer

Ultratainer tanks are very versatile, durable IBCs with one of the industry’s greatest service lives and integrity for IBC containers. Ultratainer IBCs are unique with an internal cylindrical tank within a square frame. The cylindrical shape increases tank strength, resists sidewall bulging, allows for higher pressure capacities, and promotes tank cleaning and flushing by removing hard to clean tank corners.

The integrated HDPE square frame provides a cubical shape that is easy to handle, store, ship, and stack. The square frame features a top protector that helps align IBCs for stacking and protects the top openings against potential impacts.

Ultratainer IBCs are rated to 1.9 specific gravity (15.8 lbs/gal) and capable of handling dense materials, corrosives and caustics. They are manufactured from quality FDA approved food grade HDPE resin and available in 220 gallon, 275 gallon, and 330 gallon capacities. Ultratainer tanks come in standard and wide mouth model variants.

Ultratainers are DOT/UN 31H1 certified according to Title 49 CFR requirements. They are approved to a 14.7 psi (101 KPa) pressure rating with a heavy weight Ultratainer model available tested to 62 psi (428 KPa) for hazardous, non-hazardous materials with greater off-gassing pressure requirements. Ultratainer IBC totes come standard with 6″ fill cap openings and security tethers, two replaceable 2″ bungs, integrated gallon markers, and a four way forklift, pallet jack accessible base. A domed tank bottom and 2″ bottom ball valve promotes complete product drainage for most materials. Standard features include:

• 6″ Threaded, Vented Lid
• Domed Bottom
• 2″ Draining Port Ball Valve
• Quick Connect Cam Coupler
• Cubical Shape of the Inner Tank Increases IBC Structural Durability
• Square, Thick HDPE Frame Maintains Handling Efficiency
• Molded Gallon Markers
• 4-Way Fork, 4-Way Jack Access
• Stackable to 2 – 3 High

Available Options:

• IBC Cleaning Head
• Anti-Teeter Bars
• Vacuum, Pressure Vent Reliefs
• Health Sanitary Gaskets, Valves, Component Connections
• Draw Tube Closure, Hose Assembly
• Top Head Lifting Lugs, Crane Attachments
• No Lid, 3 Bung Model
• Heavy Weight Pressure Design Rated to 62 PSI (428 kPA)

Wide Mouth Ultratainer

Wide mouth Ultratainer IBCs have all the options of standard Ultratainers but feature a 20″ top opening with a 22″ threaded screw cap and gasket that allows total access to the container interior while maintaining product integrity. The wide mouth model features raised, molded bosses that promote easy cap handling and tightening.

Wide mouth Ultratainers are ideal for and often employed in scenarios that require inner tank inspections, drying, cleaning, sanitizing, for reuse or health standards, and/or ease of access to the stored commodity. Standard features include:

• 22″ Threaded Cap, Gasket
• Domed Bottom
• 2″ Draining Port Ball Valve
• Quick Connect Cam Coupler
• Cubical Shape of the Inner Tank Increases IBC Structural Durability
• Square, Thick HDPE Frame Maintains Handling Efficiency
• Molded Gallon Markers
• 4-Way Fork, 4-Way Jack Access
• Stackable to 2 – 3 High

Available Options:

• IBC Cleaning Head
• Anti-Teeter Bars
• Vacuum, Pressure Vent Reliefs
• Health Sanitary Gaskets, Valves, Component Connections
• Top Head Lifting Lugs, Crane Attachments

Megatainer

Megatainer IBC containers are one of the industry’s largest capacity HDPE IBC tanks at 550 gallons. The Megatainer’s large 550 gallon capacity makes these IBCs the equivalent of ten 55 gallon drums but only occupy a 4′ x 6.75′ footprint by 5′ tall.

Megatainer IBCs are rated to 1.9 SG and are applicable for the bulk storage, handling, and transport of a vast assortment of chemicals and other products. With their 550 gallon payload, Megatainers can provide an overall capacity ability that is 60% greater than 330 gallon polyethylene IBCs.

Megatainer IBCs are made of superior quality HDPE resin that is rotational mold manufactured to a 1/2″ thick tank sidewall. The thick tank wall contributes significantly to product durability and corrosion resistance. These IBCs are manufactured with a structural rib design that also increases container strength.

The Megatainer IBC tote is considered lightweight and versatile with a low profile design that allows easy access to top ports. The horizontal design supplements product filling and distribution. The tanks are engineered to maximize the IBC efficiency of weight, handling, and space for increased productivity and decreased logistics costs. Standard features include:

• 6.5″ Threaded, Vented Cap, EPDM Gasket
• 2” NPS Replaceable, Threaded Bung
• 2″ Draining Port Ball Valve
• Quick Connect Cam Coupler
• Head Stacking Alignment Lugs
• Lifting Bar Option, Crane Hoist Attachment
• 4-Way Fork, 4-Way Jack Access
• Stackable to 2 – 3 High

Excalibur

Excalibur IBC tanks are rotationally molded high density polyethylene, portable and reusable totes designed to offer a more durable and maintenance free alternative to caged IBC totes. Excalibur IBCs have the lowest purchase cost of asset IBCs and provide an excellent cost to service life ratio due to its reusability, durability, and long service life.

Excalibur IBCs are offered in 120 gallon and 330 gallon capacities, and in 1.35 and 1.9 specific gravity ratings. Excalibur IBCs have a tank thickness more than triple traditional caged IBCs. Excalibur totes do not require external, protective cages due to their seamless, durable, impact resistant HDPE construction.

Excalibur tanks are manufactured with long lasting, reliable top closures, and feature a unique replaceable foot design where legs can be replaced if damaged. These tanks are highly reusable and do not have the replacement frequency and costs associated with light duty composite IBCs. Standard features include:

• 6″ Heavy Duty Threaded, Vented Cap
• 2″ Draining Port Ball Valve
• Quick Connect Cam Coupler
• Low Cost, Long Service Life Asset IBC
• HDPE Sidewall 3x Thicker Vs. Caged IBCs = Increased Durability
• Unique Replaceable Foot Design if Damaged
• Stacking Lugs
• 4-Way Fork, 4-Way Jack Access
• Stackable to 2 – 3 High

IBC Tanks | The IBC Tote Authority

IBC Tanks offers a wide selection of polyethylene plastic IBCs, types, and storage capacities at the industry’s most competitive pricing, especially for bulk quantity orders. Wholesale IBC pricing may be available for full truck load and/or recurring orders. Contact us with your questions or check out our IBC FAQ page. Contact us for more information or to request custom IBC options, alternative features, or for any other assistance you may require.