Types of FIBC Bulk Bags A B C & D

What are the differences between type A B C & D fabric in FIBCs?

When FIBCs are filled and discharged, the flowing of the finely powdered substances can cause a buildup of static electricity. Removing and or preventing an electrical charge is imperative in the packaging of flammable and combustible materials OR in an environment where combustible dust is present. Akshar FIBC Bags will work with you to determine the right type of fabric to ensure safe handling of your product.

For more information on types of bags, see our “Static Electricity in FIBCs: How to Avoid the Dangers of Storing Combustible Products”. To speak with one of our experts to determine which type of bag is right for your application.

There are four specific types of bags, each with unique features and safe uses. Please take some time to read about the different types of FIBC fabric and how they should and should not be used.

Type A bulk bags

Type A FIBCs are made of plain-woven polypropylene and other non-conductive fabrics. Static electricity is generated as products move over or rub against the inside surface of the bulk bag when they are filled/emptied. There is no static protection provided by Type A FIBCs

Type A bulk bags can be used to safely transport non-flammable products. There should not be any flammable solvents or gases present around a Type A FIBC.

Safe use for type A bulk bags:

To transport non-flammable products.
No flammable solvents or gases present around the bag.

Do not use type A bulk bags for:

Transporting flammable products.
When flammable solvents or gases are present around the bag.
Should not be used where a flammable atmosphere with a minimum ignition energy ≤1,000mJ is present.

Type B bulk bags

Type B FIBCs are similar to Type A bulk bags in that they are made of plain-woven polypropylene fabrics or other non-conductive material. Also like Type A bulk bags, Type B bags do not have any mechanism for dissipating static electricity.

The difference between Type A & B FIBCs is Type B are made from materials that have a low breakdown voltage to prevent an incident where highly energetic, and dangerous propagating brush discharges occur. Although Type B bulk bags can prevent propagating brush discharges, they are not considered anti-static bulk bags because they do not dispel an electrostatic charge.

Safe use for type A bulk bags:

To transport dry, flammable powders.
No flammable solvents or gases present around the bulk bag.
Intended to be used in environments with dust with ignition energies less than 3mJ.

Do not use type A bulk bags for:

When flammable solvents or gases are present around the bulk bag.

Type C bulk bags

Type C FIBCs, also known as conductive FIBCs or ground-able FIBCs, are made from non-conductive polypropylene fabrics interwoven with conducting threads traditionally sewn in a grid pattern. These conducting threads must be electrically interconnected as well as connected to a designated ground/earth during filling and discharging. This connection to the ground/earth during filling and discharging is imperative to the safe use of Type C bulk bags.

Safe use for type A bulk bags:

To transport flammable powders.
When flammable vapors, gases, or combustable dusts are present.

Do not use type A bulk bags for:

When ground connection is not present or has become damaged.
Resistance from any location FIBC to ground-able point.

Type D bulk bags

Type D FIBCs are made from antistatic and static dissipative fabrics designed to safely prevent the occurrence of incendiary sparks, brush discharges and propagating brush discharges without the need for a connection from the FIBC to a designated ground/earth.

Type D bulk bags such as Crohmiq™ bulk bags are manufactured with fabric containing quasi-conductive yarns that safely dissipate static electricity into the atmosphere via safe, low-energy corona discharge. Type D FIBCs can be used to safely package combustible products and handle products in combustible and flammable environments.

Safe use for type A bulk bags:

To transport flammable powders.
When flammable vapors, gases, or combustable dusts are present.

Do not use type A bulk bags for:

When surface of FIBC is contaminated or coated with conductive material such as grease or other flammable and or combustible materials.