Intermediate bulk containers provide a safe storage and transport solution for many non-hazardous liquids, chemicals and other materials; however, when IBCs age—or reach the end of their usable life—businesses must determine the best course of action to manage these containers efficiently and sustainably. What to do with your used intermediate bulk containers depends largely on their material composition, and whether they can be reused, reconditioned, or recycled. By properly managing used and aging IBCs, companies can reduce waste, promote circularity, and extend the lifecycle of these valuable industrial assets.
Reusable Stainless-Steel IBCs: A Long-Term Solution
Stainless steel IBCs are among the most durable bulk containers, capable of lasting more than 25 years with proper maintenance. These containers are highly resistant to corrosion, chemical degradation, and impact, making them ideal for repeated use in industrial applications. Their long lifespan supports sustainability by reducing the need for frequent replacements. Let’s explore how proper handling and care can ensure your fleet of stainless steel IBCs remain in circulation for decades, contributing to cost efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Cleaning and Washing for Continued Use
One of the key benefits of stainless-steel IBCs is their ability to be cleaned and recertified for reuse. Professional cleaning services use high-pressure washing systems and specialized chemical and sanitation treatments to safely remove residues and heel. For industries that handle hazardous chemicals, ensuring complete decontamination between reuse is crucial to prevent cross-contamination. With routine cleaning and maintenance, stainless steel IBCs can remain safe for ongoing storage and transport of different materials throughout their long lifecycle.
Repairing and Extending the Lifespan
Stainless steel IBCs can often be repaired rather than replaced. If a valve, gasket, or fitting becomes worn or damaged, these components can be replaced to restore full functionality. Welds and minor damage can also be repaired, ensuring that the IBC continues to meet safety and regulatory standards. Investing in repairs helps companies extend the lifespan of their assets, maximizing value and performance while reducing unnecessary waste.
Refurbishing and Reconditioning for Continued Use
For stainless steel IBCs that show wear but remain structurally sound, refurbishing and reconditioning services can restore them to like-new condition. This process may include deep cleaning, prioritizing structural reinforcements such as welding and passivation, and replacing key components. Reconditioned IBCs go through a rigorous quality inspection process to ensure compliance with industry regulations. Refurbishing existing IBCs enables companies to maintain a steady supply of high-quality containers.
Testing and Recertification for Compliance
Regulatory compliance is essential for businesses reusing stainless steel IBCs, especially in industries handling hazardous materials. Used IBCs must be periodically tested and recertified to confirm their integrity and compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) and United Nations (UN) standards. Professional testing includes pressure and thickness testing, leak detection, and structural assessments. Recertifying an IBC extends its usability and ensures that it continues to meet safety requirements for transporting and storing industrial materials.
Recycling Stainless Steel IBCs Beyond Repair
If a stainless steel IBC becomes aged, too damaged for reuse, or fails inspection, recycling offers a responsible option. Steel is a valuable material that can be melted down and reused in the manufacturing process of new industrial containers and components. Many companies sell their end-of-life stainless steel IBCs to metal recycling facilities that repurpose them for new applications. Recycling IBCs prevents them from being discarded in landfills or disposed of improperly, contributing to a more environmentally friendly and sustainable supply chain.
Remanufacturing Stainless Steel IBCs for Extended Use
Some stainless steel IBCs can undergo a remanufacturing process that involves stripping them down to their core components and rebuilding them with new parts. If the IBC meets all requirements to pass inspections and obtain appropriate UN/DOT certifications, this process extends the lifecycle of the container while maintaining compliance with industry standards. Remanufacturing reduces packaging waste and promotes a circular economy while providing businesses with cost-effective alternatives to purchasing brand-new IBCs.
Reusable Poly IBCs: Sustainable and Cost-Effective
Reusable high-density polyethylene (HDPE) IBCs, like those offered by Hoover CS, provide a balance between durability and cost-effectiveness. These containers typically last up to five years and can be cleaned and reused multiple times. Unlike single-use plastic IBCs and drums, reusable poly IBCs are designed to withstand repeated handling, making them a more sustainable choice for bulk liquid storage and transport.
Cleaning, Repairing, and Recertifying Poly IBCs
Like stainless steel IBCs, reusable poly IBCs require regular cleaning and maintenance to remain in service. Industrial container services such as washing and decontamination processes remove residues and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Components such as valves and fittings can be replaced when necessary, further extending the lifespan of these containers. Recertification ensures that reused poly IBCs continue to meet industry standards for safe storage and transport.
Recycling and Disposal Options for Poly IBCs
When polyethylene IBCs are no longer usable, businesses can work with their supplier or service provider to have their used containers picked up for responsible end-of-life handling. Some recycling facilities can grind HDPE into flakes for remanufacturing new containers, whereas others will clean and decontaminate the containers ahead of disposal in accordance with local laws and regulations. Working with a certified facility ensures used containers are properly handled, preventing improper disposal of hazardous materials and reducing environmental impact.
Caged IBCs: Managing Single-Use Plastic Containers
Caged IBCs, which consist of a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) bottle encased in an aluminum cage, are commonly used for single-use applications. Unlike reusable poly and stainless steel IBCs, these containers have one-time use lifespans and often generate significant plastic waste. Because they are not designed for multiple reuses, businesses must find appropriate disposal and recycling solutions for their used caged IBCs.
Collection and Pickup Services for Used IBCs
As mentioned, many industrial service providers offer collection and pickup for used IBCs. Collected IBCs may be assessed for sales potential, recycling, or shredding before processing. Working with a professional collection service ensures regulatory compliance and responsible waste management.
Shredding and Recycling Plastic Components
Before recycling, used caged poly IBCs are often shredded to break down the plastic and metal components separately. This process ensures that materials are properly sorted and processed. Shredded plastic can be melted down and repurposed for manufacturing new containers or other plastic products. The aluminum cages are also recyclable, reducing the overall environmental footprint of discarded IBCs.
Selling Used IBCs for Secondary Applications
Some businesses sell their used plastic IBCs for secondary applications, such as the storage of non-hazardous liquids. While these containers are not suitable for repeated industrial use, they can be repurposed in non-commercial settings.
The Role of Industrial Container Services in Managing Used IBCs
Proper handling of used and end-of-life IBCs requires expertise in cleaning, refurbishing, recycling, and disposal. Industrial container services provide businesses with comprehensive solutions to extend the lifecycle of reusable IBCs and responsibly manage single-use containers. Whether through reconditioning, recertification, or recycling programs, these services help companies optimize their container usage while maintaining compliance with industry regulations. Partnering with a trusted industrial container service provider ensures that used IBCs are handled in the most sustainable and cost-effective manner.
Understanding what to do with your used intermediate bulk containers helps businesses manage these valuable assets responsibly. Whether reconditioning stainless steel and poly IBCs for reuse, recycling damaged containers, or working with industrial container suppliers for proper disposal, companies can make efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainability throughout their operations. Businesses that prioritize reuse and recycling contribute to a more efficient and environmentally responsible supply chain.
