Conductive Type C Bulk Bags

Engineered for Safety

When handling sensitive bulk powders, or filling and discharging bags where flammable gases or vapors are present, static protection is essential to prevent a fire or catastrophic explosion. Electrostatic FIBCs offer static protection in the form of either a Type C or Type D bulk bag. These bag types are engineered to control static electricity thereby significantly reducing the risk of a fire or explosion.

Type C bulk bags are specifically designed for operations where grounding protocols can be consistently maintained, making them a practical and cost-effective solution for many industrial environments.

Common materials handled in Type C bags include flammable powders such as calcium stearate, as well as other combustible chemicals, food additives, and fine particulate materials.

What is a Type C FIBC?

Also referred to as conductive bags or conductive Type C bulk bags, these FIBCs provide a direct path for static electricity to safely dissipate when properly connected to ground.

A Type C FIBC is made of woven conductive fabric or from a non-conductive fabric with interconnected conductive threads or filaments. The conductive threads are sewn in a grid pattern.

Type C bags are designed to control electrostatic charges by grounding. Type C bags are safe for transporting FLAMMABLE products. Flammable materials or gases MAY be present outside of the bag. However, a Type C FIBC MUST BE GROUNDED during filling and discharge.

This makes them a preferred solution in facilities where explosion risks are tied to airborne dust, vapor exposure, or highly reactive materials.

Type C Bag Benefits

Dissipates Static Electricity
Prevents Brush Discharges when Grounded
Prevents Sparks when Grounded
Prevents Propagating Brush Discharges
Safe for use in the presence of solvents, flammable powders, and combustible materials when grounded.
Less expensive than a Type D FIBC
Widely accepted across chemical, food ingredient, and plastics manufacturing industries
Cost-effective conductive solution compared to alternative static-dissipative packaging

Safe Use for Type C Bulk Bags:

To transport flammable powders.
When flammable vapors, gases, or combustible dusts are present outside the bag.
During filling and discharging processes where ignition risks must be actively managed

Do Not Use Type C Bulk Bags:

When ground connection is not present or has become damaged.
Resistance from any location FIBC to ground-able point.
As a substitute for Type D bags in environments requiring passive static dissipation

Why Manufacturers Choose Type C Bulk Bags

Type C bulk bags are widely used by manufacturers processing flammable or combustible materials because they provide controlled static dissipation in environments where ignition risks are present.

They are commonly selected when:

Filling or discharging operations generate static electricity
Flammable vapors or dust clouds may be present in the surrounding environment
Facility safety protocols require grounded conductive packaging
Cost control is important, but safety cannot be compromised

For many operations, Type C FIBCs offer the best balance between safety, compliance, and cost, provided proper grounding procedures are followed.

Common Applications & Industries

Type C conductive bulk bags are used across a range of industries handling flammable or reactive materials, including:

Chemical manufacturing (e.g., calcium stearate, additives, powdered chemicals)
Food ingredients (fine powders prone to dust ignition)
Plastics and resins
Minerals and specialty materials
Agriculture and feed additives

These industries rely on consistent packaging performance to maintain both safety compliance and operational efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Type C bulk bag?

A Type C bulk bag, also known as a conductive FIBC, is made from fabric with interconnected conductive threads. These bags are designed to safely dissipate static electricity when properly grounded, making them suitable for handling flammable powders or use in explosive environments.

When should Type C FIBCs be used?

Type C FIBCs should be used when transporting flammable powders or when flammable vapors, gases, or combustible dusts are present outside the bag. They are ideal for static-sensitive applications where grounding can be reliably ensured.

What is the difference between Type C and Type D FIBC bags?

Type C FIBCs require grounding during use and are generally more cost-effective. Type D FIBCs dissipate static without a ground wire but can be more expensive and require specific conditions for safe use. Type C is preferred when reliable grounding is available.

What happens if a Type C bag is not grounded?

If a Type C bag is not grounded, it cannot safely dissipate static electricity, increasing the risk of sparks and potential explosions. These bags must never be used in explosive environments without a verified ground connection.