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Every company that uses bulk bags has expectations. The ideal container should be able to hold large volumes of material safely, be able to stack neatly and withstand bumpy transport without toppling over. These three factors form the foundation of any good bulk bag. To ensure that they can perform as expected, bulk bags are put through a string of tests, including a topple test.

Custom Bulk Bags is a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality bulk bags in South Africa. Our products undergo rigorous testing to ensure that they meet international standards and regulations for quality, safety and efficacy. All of our products have a minimum safety factor rating of 5:1. They are approved for a variety of uses, including the storage of hazardous materials, mining ore and agricultural products.

Choosing between coated and uncoated bulk bags

How the topple test works

This evaluation determines how well a bulk bag can stay upright during bumpy transport, whether by road, rail or sea. In most cases, a bulk bag falling over is costly as it not only potentially spills its contents which leads to waste, but it can also put workers at risk if those contents are hazardous.

Certain chemicals or flammable materials need to be stored in sealed bulk bags, but if they topple over, it can compromise the seams and closures. This is why the topple test is a vital aspect of a container’s safety. The test itself is very simple – a bulk bag is filled to maximum capacity and placed on a platform. It is then toppled over. 

The height of the platform can vary depending on the regulatory requirements of the materials being transported, but if the bag does not break or leak, it passes the topple test. Even if there are slight leakages from the seams or closures upon impact, it does not necessarily mean that the bag fails. Any significant breach of the fabric or seams will constitute a failure.

A smiling Custom Bulk Bags employee stands with his arms crossed in front of some equipment on the production floor.

How to improve topple resistance

The first step used by manufacturers to improve topple resistance is to increase the weight of the fabric used at the top of the bag. A more rigid or sturdy top closure and lining will strengthen the seams and help to prevent rips as the bag impacts the floor. Additionally, manufacturers may include a band of extra fabric around the top perimeter of the bag for added structural support.

Including inner liners or different (stronger) types of top closures can also improve impact resistance. This is why it’s vital to consult with your bulk bag manufacturer before placing an order. Our team of experts will be able to guide you through a process to select the best optional extras for your requirements and ensure that your products are 100% suited to your business needs.

Why the right bulk bag dimensions are critical

Why choose Custom Bulk Bags

If you’re looking for a reputable packaging supplier that can offer high-quality products, then Custom Bulk Bags is on-hand for any enquiries within Southern Africa. Be sure to ask the right questions of your supplier, including the following:

  1. Manufacturing processes
  2. Available optional extras
  3. Testing procedures
  4. Certifications and affiliations with packaging associations

A trustworthy manufacturer and supplier will be able to provide transparent answers and documentation during this process. This will ensure that you get the right bulk bags and guidance. For more information about our bulk bags, please contact us today. 

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Custom Bulk Bags is a leading South African manufacturer of woven polypropylene bags for various industries, such as mining, chemicals and food. We are able to produce over 3.5-million bulk bags per year, keeping our customers in stock at all times. Our bags adhere to the highest levels of quality as a result of our stringent in-house testing and quality control programmes.

Custom Bulk Bags holds ISO 9001 certification and we currently have a number of UN-certified designs. We are a Level 2 B-BBEE manufacturer and supplier and fall under the ownership structure of Deneb Investments Limited. For more information on our products, contact sales@custombulkbags.co.za. Follow us on Facebook for our latest news and industry insights.