One of the many advantages of bulk bags is customisability. This allows you to tailor your FIBCs to your exact requirements, giving you options for fabric type, size, filling and discharge spots, and even the lifting attachments. These choices will affect the convenience and usefulness of your bulk bags, so be sure to make the right choices.
Making the best decision for your needs requires an understanding of the various lifting features offered by bulk bag manufacturers. Custom Bulk Bags is a leading manufacturer and supplier of bulk bags in South Africa. We produce up to 3.5 million units per year, and our products can safely hold between 500kg and two tonnes of material per bag. We offer various lifting attachments to suit your applications.
There are two main choices for lifting attachments: tunnel sleeves and lifting loops. Though their designs are very different, they both have the same basic function, which is to make it possible to carry fully loaded bulk bags safely and effectively. Let’s jump into the differences between each design.
Two options for lifting attachments
- Lifting loops – Typical lifting loops are sewn onto the corners of the bulk bag as individual straps, usually composed of woven polypropylene fabric. These loops are designed to be used with hooks or slings attached to cranes or forklifts. They are the most popular and adaptable choice for bulk bags and provide a straightforward and efficient lifting solution for a variety of uses.
- Tunnel sleeves – Also known as sleeve loops, these attachments are continuous sleeves of fabric that wrap around the entire circumference of the bulk bag. In other words, they are extensions of the bulk bag fabric itself, rather than being sewn to the fabric. They are designed to be used with forklifts; the tines are easily inserted into the sleeves. Tunnel sleeves are well-suited for heavy loads or unstable materials because they distribute the bag’s weight more evenly.
Benefits of each lifting attachment
Lifting loops are the most popular choice for a number of reasons. Firstly, they are very versatile as a range of lifting machines, such as hoists, cranes, and forklifts, can be used with lifting loops. They are simple to use and need little practice. In general, lifting loops are less expensive than tunnel sleeves and can be ordered in a variety of sizes.
Tunnel sleeves have particular applications where they are advantageous. They have increased stability – by distributing the bag’s weight more equally, they reduce the chance of tilting or swaying when the bulk bag is lifted. This also improves safety as the continuous loop design reduces the possibility of the bag slipping or falling and creates a more stable lifting point. Tunnel sleeves are perfect for heavy loads or when managing bags that are unstable or heavy.
Real-world use cases
While both options can be used in any industry, there are certain real-world examples where one attachment is preferred over another. Lifting loops are commonly used in construction and agriculture. A forklift or hoist can be used to easily lift and transfer the bags around the construction site or farm.
Tunnel sleeves may be a better choice for chemical manufacturers who produce bulk amounts of dense powders. The heavy weight can be lifted safely with tunnel sleeves, which offer a more solid and robust lifting point. This also applies to mines where heavy ore is packed into bulk bags. This extra strength and stability are important in these industries.
Choosing the ideal option for your company
A number of variables determine which lifting loop or tunnel sleeve is best, including the materials being handled (their weight and stability are the biggest determining factors). Business owners also need to think about the kind of lifting equipment that is available on-site. A greater variety of lifting machines can be used with lifting loops.
Consider how frequently lifting takes place. Tunnel loops might be a more practical and ergonomic option for lifting that occurs frequently. You also need to look at your budget. In general, lifting loops are more economical, whereas tunnel sleeves may increase the cost of your bulk bags.
Custom Bulk Bags can offer professional advice to help you make the best choice from our extensive selection of FIBC options. Our knowledgeable team will guide you through the ordering process and ask you various questions about your needs so they can determine the best features for your bulk bags.
We are dedicated to providing outstanding customer service and solutions that are specifically designed to meet your needs. For more information about our bulk bags or to get advice on the ideal designs, 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 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, LinkedIn and Instagram for our latest news and industry insights.
