What Materials Can Be Filled Into Big Bags?
Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers
When you think of sophisticated filling machinery, it's easy to assume that most only cater to small bag sizes. While many machines work with this size designation, it’s also possible to automate the processing of filling Bulk Bags or Big Bags.
Integrating the right machine into your operations can ramp up your output and help grow your business. Here’s what you need to know about Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container (FIBC) bag filling machines, what you can store in them, and whether you should invest in one.
Products That You Can Store In FIBC Bags
FIBC bags (also known as jumbo, bulk or big bags or super sacks) describe any industrial container made of flexible fabric. They’re usually made from woven plastic fibres like polypropylene or PVC.
When it comes to filling them, they can store agricultural products like flour or grains; animal feed and pet food; chemical powders; construction products like sand and cement; dry foods like sugar and nuts as well as mining products like coal and ore.
What If I Don't Sell Any Of The Above?
Even if you don’t sell any of the above, FIBC bags could be an option for you if you’re looking to fill bags at volumes between five and seven pounds. Food safe and chemical-free versions are available that keep out moisture and pests.
They can be equipped to contain hazardous products without releasing fumes or generating static charge, making them safe. They can also be reinforced to be strong enough to also travel long distances in harsh conditions. As you can often reuse them, they’re an eco-friendly way to package products.
Using The Right Machinery To Package FIBC Bags
To get the most out of your FIBC bags, you’ll need to invest in the right kind of filling machinery. FIBC filling machines range from basic stand alone units to sophisticated systems to match the budget and capacity requirements of each customer’s application. These machines pour product into open bags placed below them - directly (or via a spout for spout top bags) to avoid spillage. These machines automatically fill each bag, stopping and detaching when it’s filled. If you have an existing conveyor line or pallet/forklift setup, it can be integrated into it.
Alternatively you can buy a machine with a built-in conveyor to transport materials to your loading site and fill them at once. The specific type of conveyor you choose will depend on the size of your factory as well as what product you’re working with.
If you work with multiple product types on a larger scale, a pneumatic system using industrial vacuums and blowers is an option. This option is also enclosed, making it suitable for food products or anything in risk of contamination.
What To Consider Before Selecting A Machine
Before you make your final selection, you’ll need to know what kind of FIBC bag you’ll be dealing with. This includes details on its dimensions, weight and height. You’ll also need to consider your pallet size, transport method and your customer needs.
If you aren’t sure which one would best suit your business, you should work with an expert in pairing the right machines with businesses based on their budget, capacity and requirements.
Webster Griffin has the experience to help guide your decision, so why not get in touch with us for advice?
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Big Bag Filling Machines