Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), also commonly known as tote tanks, are containers that are used to store and ship large quantities of liquids. Companies shipping chemicals have relied on tote tanks to provide them with quality service in storing and transporting their regulated liquids.
However, carrying regulated liquid products in tote tanks can pose a risk. This risk is mitigated by adhering to the US Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations that govern shipping of regulated products.
Using the correct packaging ensures the shipper that all risks are being properly managed. The DOT regulations govern the products and the packaging for the transportation of these products, but they do not regulate the storage of such materials.
Enforceable under OSHA and many state and local regulations, NFPA 30 provides safeguards to reduce the hazards associated with the storage, handling, and use of flammable and combustible liquids.
Local Fire Marshalls and many insurance companies will use NFPA 30 guidelines when they are determining the safe storage of regulated products. The code provides a great deal of information regarding specific steps to be taken for each type of tote tank and chemical contained within them.
Read more information on NFPA 30.
One of the biggest concerns for local fire marshalls in terms of chemical storage is fire. Fortunately, stainless steel IBCs contribute to the protection against fire. The construction of the stainless steel IBC is built in favor of preventing the tote tank from becoming explosive. Thanks to the fusible vent (which is a DOT requirement), that can be found on the drum cover; the worries of explosion can be put to rest.
The fusible vent allows vapor to escape the tote tank when the internal temperature of the tote tank reaches a certain level. When the IBC becomes too hot, the fusible link melts away, causing the core to fall into the tank. This releases the pressure build up inside of the IBC which in turn prevents the tote tank from exploding. Required by the UN/DOT, fusible vents are a necessary safety feature for any stainless steel IBC.
(Read more about the functions of fusible vents.)
To learn more about the safety features available on stainless steel IBCs, please feel free to contact us at info@metanousa.com or call us at 800-634-4128.