Bulk bags, also known as flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs), are highly durable, versatile and sustainable packaging materials. They store and transport large quantities of various materials, such as agricultural produce, mining ore and chemicals. When it comes to agriculture, there are multiple benefits of bulk bags to farmers, millers and processing facilities.
One key functional component that is recommended on bulk bags for agriculture is baffling. A baffled bulk bag has fabric panels or strings that are sewn into the sides of the fabric at the four corners to allow it to maintain a square shape when filled. These types of FIBCs are also known as Formstable or Q-bags.
Custom Bulk Bags is a leading manufacturer and supplier of FIBCs in South Africa. In partnership with our sister company, IPP, we extrude and manufacture woven polypropylene fabric bags in-house. All of our FIBCs have a minimum safety factor rating of 5:1 and are made in accordance with international standards for quality and safety.
Benefits of baffled bulk bags
Standard FIBCs can sometimes bulge at the sides when filled with certain materials, which affects their ability to be stacked safely. As the baffles prevent this bulging, these FIBCs are more stable and have an improved storage capacity. This is ideal for storing grains or other agricultural products, such as sugar.
Other benefits of baffled bulk bags include improved structural integrity, better utilisation of warehouse or shed space, as well as safer handling during filling, storage and discharging. As the baffles are an optional extra, you can expect these FIBCs to cost slightly more than a standard bag, but the benefits make the investment worth it.
Packaging materials that are used in agriculture and food distribution need to be classed as food-grade. This basically means that they are safe for use with foods and will not contaminate any produce. Baffled bulk bags can be certified food-grade if manufactured in accordance with safe practices, including the use of 100% virgin raw materials, proper facility ventilation, pest control procedures and light table inspections.
Uses for baffled bulk bags
There are various uses for baffled bulk bags, not just for agriculture but also for chemicals, mining and construction. However, specifically for agriculture, these FIBCs are ideal for storing and transporting grains, beans, seeds, peas, feeds, mineral supplements, corn and flour.
Be sure to choose a reputable packaging supplier that can offer high-quality FIBCs, such as Custom Bulk Bags, when placing your next order for packaging products. A trustworthy manufacturer will be able to provide guidance and consultations so that you get the right FIBCs for your needs. 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.
