Type D FIBC – Properties & Specifications
Bulk handling of conductive or insulated materials is commonplace for industrial applications. When these materials are filled, emptied or transported, electrostatic charges develop due to the regular rough contact established between particles and container walls. These charges hold the potential of causing ignition when used in flammable atmosphere. Type D FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container) has adequate protective elements built in it which does away the chances of combustion or other hazards.
Properties of Type D FIBC
The containers are manufactured out of anti-static and static dissipative fabrics whose strategic design prevents the formation of incendiary sparks or brush discharges. The discharges can be propagated off without requiring the bag to be connected to the ground. With Type D, safe packaging of combustible materials and handling products in combustible or flammable atmospheres becomes a breeze. It is desirable not to use the bag if its surface shows sign of contamination or is covered with grease, water and other conductive substances.
The fabric of the Type D bags is specially made to control static electricity. Electrostatic electricity is the result of the imbalance between electric charges that exists on the surface of the substance and within it. During rapid filling and discharging odd bulk bags, the fluid motion adopted by pulverized substances produces static charges when the friction between surfaces takes place and is heightened by the resistance offered by the walls of the containers. The rapid build up of the charges is hazardous and can cause the dust to become inflamed. The combustible dusts are generated within the bag during handling or may be present in the atmosphere. It is importance that you use Type D FIBC to remove or prevent electric charges as the amount of investment on your part is high.
Handling specifications
If the minimum ignition energy of the combustible dust present when bilk products are handled exceeds 1000 mega joules and is less than 3 mega joules, it is safe to use Type D bag. Type D FIBC is safe for use in non-flammable, explosive dust, gas and vapour filled atmospheres. The bag does not require grounding or earthing.
It is advisable to use Type D bags inevitably in industries that experience a high risk of electrostatic hazards, prominent among them being minerals, foods, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
The safety features inherent in the FIBC assists in removing inherent hazard of grounding failures which always remain present in FIBC Type C or other conductive bags. Grounding errors can occur due to manual failures. As you switch away from Type C grounded bags to Type D, you are assured of the proven safety of these bulk containers.
Conclusion
Type D bags are helpful in safe dissipation of electrostatic charges without having to make provision for grounding or earthing connection. The bags can be used with safety for both earthed as well as unearthed products. The bags are manufactured by complying with the regulations defined for usage in storing and transporting dry materials. Both coated as well as uncoated anti-static fabrics can be used for manufacturing these bags.