FIBC Bulk Bag Frequently Asked Questions
General Bulk Packaging FAQs
Some of you are new to FIBCs. A bulk bag is a large bag made out of woven polypropylene used to store and/or transport dry products. Please contact us and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have that are not covered in the FAQ's section below.
Questions
Answers
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What is an FIBC?
A bulk bag is a large bag made out of woven polypropylene used to store and/or transport dry products. FIBC dimensions can vary based on customer needs. The bags typically hold anywhere from 2000 - 4000 lbs of product and generally placed on pallets by fork lifts using the attached corner lift loops.
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Are FIBC's waterproof?
No, since a FIBC's fabric is made from woven polypropylene, the bag is not water proof.
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Are bulk bags recyclable?
Yes, new FIBC's are made from 100% virgin polypropylene.
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What does FIBC stand for?
Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container. Some other names that you might hear are: Bulk Bags, Big Bags, and Totes.
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What are FIBC's made from?
100% virgin polypropylene
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Can FIBC's be used more than once?
FIBC's can be used more than once if you have a bag with a 6:1 SF (safety factor). Some users reuse a FIBC with a 5:1 SF but this is not recommended! If you reuse a FIBC with a 5:1 SF you have to take into consideration that the fabric might be worn down or the loops could be breaking down, etc. If you plan on using a bag more than once it is recommended that you custom order it with a 6:1 SF.
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What is SWL?
SWL stands for Safe Working Load. This means that a bulk bag's safe working load is the amount of weight that the bag is rated and tested to hold safely.
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What is 5:1 SF (safety factor)?
5:1 SF means that the bag is rated to hold 5 times the amount of the bags SWL. A 5:1 SF is for single use bags. Bags that are designed for multi-use are made with an increased SF ratio of 6:1.
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How can I attach my documents to the bags?
Generally documents are attached by document pouches. The typical size of a document pouch is 10" x 12" and can have either a ziplock opening or a standard opening. The pouches can be sewn on the bag to where the user prefers. Document pouches can vary and can be custom made.
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Can I have my FIBC's printed?
Yes, FIBC's can be printed. Price is subject to number of colors and how many sides you need printed.
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What is UN Certification and how long is the certificate good for?
UN Certification is a test that puts the FIBC through a set of rigourous tests such as - drop test, tear test, etc. The certificate is usually good for one year from testing.
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We are wanting to start to use FIBC's. How do we go about getting started?
You will need the following information:
- Style of bag
- Fabric weight
- Type of top and bottom openings
- Dimensions of the FIBC
- Safety ratio desired
- Weight you desire in the bag
- How many times will the bulk bag be used
- Any extra information that you feel is important
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What is a perimeter band?
A perimeter band is a band sewn around the outside perimeter of the top of a bag, which is designed to give extra strength to loops when lifting.
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What is a b-lock?
A b-lock is a spout accessory that is designed to assist in closing the spout. It is a quick and easy way to close a spout, manually regulating the flow of product.
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What are baffles?
Baffles are pieces of material that are sewn to the inside corners of a bag to maintain its square shape after filling. The baffles have holes that allow the product to flow freely through them so you are not losing bag space due to baffles.
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What is UV treatment in the bags?
UV treatment is an additive that is added to the resin during the extrusion process. It helps protect the bag from UV rays if stored outside, therefore protecting the bags from breaking down.
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Are there other color choices of fabric besides white?
Yes, there are other colors of fabric that you custom order but please note that there is a minimum order qty.
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Can FIBC's have liners and if so what options are available?
Yes, FIBC's can have liners. They are actually pretty common. They can be inserted loosely or attached to the bag. There are different types of liners for different applications, but the main two are tube liners and form fit liners.
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