Fusible vents are required on all intermediate bulk containers containing regulated products for UN/DOT compliance.  It's a safety feature of stainless steel tote tanks that you can't live without.

The Department of Transportation regulations state in section DOT CFR 178.705 (2)(i) that "IBCs must be capable of releasing a sufficient amount of vapor in the event of fire engulfment to ensure that no rupture of the body will occur due to pressure build-up.  This can be achieved by spring-loaded or non-reclosing pressure relief devices or by other means of construction."

Manufacturers of Intermediate Bulk Containers have determined that the use of the fusible link is the best method available for releasing a ‘sufficient amount of vapor’.  The most common and useful fusible vent is the 3” Threaded Fusible Vent/Cap.  Also simply known as a fusible cap, this device offers the protection of a fusible vent and the convenience of a 3” removable cap to be used as a fill port.

When the intermediate bulk container is exposed to excessive heat, the fusible link is designed to melt away to allow the inner core to fall into the tank thereby releasing the vapor.  This alleviates the intense pressure build up inside the stainless steel intermediate bulk container to significantly reduce the opportunity of explosion.

Below are Fusible Cap installation guidelines for stainless steel Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs):

1. Check the nipple that the cap is to be installed on to make sure it is round and has a smooth edge.
2. Always use a new gasket.
3. Hand tighten until gasket meets the nipple's edge, then use a spanner wrench to snug.  (Caution: Using a hammer to tighten the cap will cause damage to fusible material.)
4. Tighten to a torque of 30 Ft-Lbs.

The use of fusible vents on stainless steel intermediate bulk containers are a necessary safety feature required by UN/DOT.  Click here to see more on intermediate bulk container regulations.