In many industries, Manufacturers struggle to find the efficient and cost-effective solution to transport their materials. Historically there was some other packaging ways such as pure bulk (entire truck, train car, or barge), small bulk (drums, 50-100 lb. bags), and large boxes (Gaylords). However, these simply can not provide enough flexibility, efficiency, or economic feasibility. This problem gave rise to the invention of flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs), which are also known as bulk bags, Super Sacks, jumbo bags, or big bags. FIBCs are industrial containers created from flexible fabric, and they are great at transporting and storing dry powders and materials. This article will help you explore the history of bulk bags.
1950S AND 1960S
FIBCs have been in use for decades. The exact date of their first use is unclear, but it happened sometime in the late 1950s or early 1960s. In this early stage, FIBC bags were mostly used in the Europe and Japan, and only later in the United States.
The first bulk bags looked a little different than modern FIBCs. They were typically made from heavy-duty, PVC-coated nylon or polyester, and the cut sheets were welded together. These bags also had lift swings that were integrated into the container or attached to a special pallet. This bag at that time were very rugged and had high weight capacities, but were very expensive. This led to the sewn, woven polypropelene bags we see today.
1970S AND 1980S
In Europe, bulk bags experienced a surge of use in the 1970s due to the oil crisis. The countries that produced the oil needed a large amount of cement to use for their building programs. They used bulk bags to transport the cement at the amount of 30,000-50,000 metric tons per week from Spain, Northern Europe and Italy to the Middle East.
The demand for FIBC bags grew slower in the United States. However, in 1984 the demand started to grow rather quickly due to the U.S. Department of Transportation agreeing to grant exemptions for bulk bags to be used for the shipment of hazardous materials. This decision required the creation of performance standards for FIBCs that were established and issued by the Chemical Packaging Committee of the Packaging Institute.
TODAY
Nowadays big bag industry has continued to grow, adding another chapter to the history of FIBC bags. Today, FIBCs transport over 1/4 billion tons of product each year in a wide range of industries. 50 million bags were used in 2017 in the US alone. In addition to being used to transport and store products, bulk bags are used in some areas, including Thailand and North America, to create temporary walls used for flood prevention.
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WHY SHOULD YOU USE BULK BAGS?
They are lightweight and strong. Typically, bulk bags weigh between 2 and 3 kg. Despite their low weight, they are strong. They can hold between 1,000 and 2000 kg of bulk materials.
They are easy to handle. FIBCs are constructed for ease of use, typically featuring straps or handles so they can be lifted by equipment with ease. Additionally, they are filled from the top but discharged from the bottom – eliminating the need to invert or dump from the top like drums, bins, and Gaylords.
They save space. When empty, they are lightweight and can fold flat and easily moved and stored. When filled, they have a very low ratio of packaging to product weight.
They can be customized. Bulk bags can be designed to meet the consumer’s specific needs. You can customize your bag’s height, length, fabric loops and spout construction.
They are economical. The price of bulk bags is extremely competitive. In addition, when bulk bags are put into action, other supplies (like pallets and packaging) may not be necessary.
They are recyclable. FIBCs can easily be reused or recycled.
With over 16 years of combined experience in the packaging industry, EPP can assist your company with high quality FIBC bags as well as professional services. To discuss the requirements of your bulk bag, please give us a call or contact us online today.