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 to cause ignition when used in a flammable atmosphere. Type D FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container) has adequate protective elements built in it which does away with 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 signs 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 exist on the surface of the substance and within it. During rapid filling and discharging of 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. You must 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 megajoules and is less than 3 megajoules, it is safe to use a 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 assist in removing the 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 the safe dissipation of electrostatic charges without having to make provision for grounding or earthing connection. The bags can be used safely 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.