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Understanding the Differences Between FIBC Fabrics: Type A, B, C, & D Bulk Bags

What Are FIBC Fabrics? Understanding Static Control in Bulk Bags

FIBC fabrics are designed to manage static electricity, which is the imbalance of electric charges that can accumulate on the surface of the material. When bulk bags are rapidly filled and discharged, the movement of powdered substances can create a buildup of static electricity. Properly controlling or preventing static buildup is essential, especially when handling flammable or combustible materials, or when working in environments where combustible dust is present. 

Let’s explore the characteristics and applications of each FIBC fabric type. 

Type A FIBC Fabrics: Best for Non-Flammable Products

Type A FIBCs are made from plain woven polypropylene and do not offer any static protection. Due to their lack of static dissipation properties, they should only be used to transport non-flammable products. Type A FIBCs are not suitable for handling combustible materials or for use in flammable or explosive environments. 

Key Characteristics: 

• Made from non-conductive polypropylene fabric. 

• Ideal for transporting non-flammable products. 

• Avoid: Using in environments with flammable or combustible dust, gases, or solvents. 

Recommended Usage: Use Type A FIBCs when handling products that don’t pose any flammable risk, ensuring no combustible materials are present. 

Type B FIBC Fabrics: Preventing Energetic Brush Discharges

Type B FIBCs are also made from plain woven polypropylene but have a low breakdown voltage, which helps prevent highly energetic brush discharges that can ignite a dust-air mixture. However, they do not provide true antistatic properties, as they have no mechanism to dissipate static electricity. 

Key Characteristics: 

• Made from non-conductive polypropylene fabric with a low breakdown voltage. 

• Suitable for transporting dry, flammable powders. 

• Avoid: Using in environments with flammable gases or solvents. 

Recommended Usage: Choose Type B FIBCs when transporting dry, flammable powders, but ensure there are no flammable gases or vapors present around the bag. 

Type C FIBC Fabrics: Grounded Protection for Flammable Powders

Type C FIBCs are designed with static protection in mind. They’re made from non-conductive polypropylene interwoven with conductive threads, typically arranged in a grid pattern. These conductive threads connect the bag to a grounding point, making the connection to ground or earth essential during filling and discharging. 

Key Characteristics: 

• Contains interwoven conductive threads that must be grounded. 

• Safe for transporting flammable powders. 

• Avoid: Using if the bag is not properly grounded or if the grounding connection is damaged. 

Recommended Usage: Opt for Type C FIBCs when transporting flammable powders or when working in environments with flammable solvents or gases, but only if you can ensure proper grounding.

Type D FIBC Fabrics: The Safest Choice for Flammable Environments

Type D FIBCs are made from antistatic and static-dissipative fabrics designed to prevent sparks and brush discharges without the need for a grounding connection. This makes them a reliable choice for handling combustible products and working in flammable environments. 

Key Characteristics: 

• Made from static-dissipative fabrics with built-in antistatic properties. 

• Suitable for transporting flammable powders. 

• Avoid: Using when the bag’s surface is contaminated with conductive materials like water or grease. 

Recommended Usage: Choose Type D FIBCs for handling flammable powders in environments where flammable solvents or gases may be present, especially when grounding isn’t practical or possible. 

Choosing Between Plain and Antistatic FIBCs: When to Use Each Type

The following table provides a quick reference guide to help you choose the right FIBC fabric type based on the Minimum Ignition Energy (MIE) of the dust you’re handling and the atmosphere in which you’ll be working: 

Note: Type C FIBCs are safe to use under these conditions ONLY IF PROPERLY GROUNDED. 

FAQs About FIBC Fabrics 

• Why is it essential to choose the right FIBC fabric type? 

Choosing the correct FIBC fabric type ensures safe handling and transport of materials, particularly when dealing with static electricity, flammable powders, or combustible dust. 

• What happens if I use the wrong FIBC type for my application? 

Using the wrong FIBC type can lead to dangerous situations, including sparks, fires, or explosions, especially in environments with flammable substances. 

• Can I get assistance from FlexSack in choosing the right FIBC? 

Yes! Our experts are here to help. Contact us at 205.620.9889 or email sales@flexsack.com for personalized guidance on selecting the right FIBC fabric for your needs. 

Conclusion: Choose the Right FIBC Fabric with FlexSack

Selecting the correct FIBC fabric is vital for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of your bulk material handling operations. Whether you need a simple Type A bag for non-flammable products or a Type D bag for the most hazardous environments, FlexSack has the expertise to guide you. 

Discuss your specific shipping and storage needs with a FlexSack Expert today by calling 205.620.9889 or emailing sales@flexsack.com.