If you don’t have an existing stainless steel intermediate bulk container fleet, you should consider purchasing or renting tote tanks with the most common base dimension of 42" x 48".  In the event your suppliers or customers need to stack the tanks, common base dimensions makes stacking easier and safer. 

The base of the stainless steel intermediate bulk container (IBC) has other important features:

Be sure that the stainless steel intermediate bulk containers that you purchase or rent have a sloped bottom. The bottom should have a minimum of a ½” slope from one side of the tank to the other towards the bottom outlet. This slope ensures the most efficient drainage of the contents. The bottom outlet is flush with the bottom interior of the tote tank to facilitate drainage. On the bottom exterior of the intermediate bulk container is normally a 2” stainless steel ball valve. The ball valve sits outside of the tank for easy access by the operator. It also utilizes a reverse handle so that it is in-line when closed.

Stainless steel intermediate bulk containers are fork lift-able on three sides. The only side that is not accessible with a forklift is the side with the valve. A valve guard sits just behind the valve and protects the valve so that the forks cannot hit the valve coming in from the opposite side.

Knowing the time frame of when you need your totes may make a big difference in determining whether you should rent or buy your tanks. With common base dimensions, building or adding onto your existing fleet makes it easier to assimilate your additional IBCs. 

If you would like more information on stainless steel IBC specifications feel free to contact us at info@metanousa.com or call 800-634-4128.