Type C FIBC Overview

Type C FIBCs refer to the class of FIBCs that actually protects against dangerous static discharges through grounding of the bag itself during the filling and discharging processes. These bags are safe when grounded because any electrostatic potential that builds up as a result of rapid filling or discharging quickly and safely exits the bag to ground via the network of conductive fibers woven into the fabric of the bag. This is true as long as the bag continually remains grounded.

As a recognized leader in the bulk packaging industry and  FIBC solutions , Procon Pacific is the go-to source for your conductive FIBC needs. Our extensive expertise includes complete FIBC Type C solutions. What’s more, our comprehensive knowledge of Type C FIBCs means we can provide you with the product that meets your precise needs. Whatever conductive bulk bags best suit your purposes, you can be sure that Procon Pacific will provide the products that deliver. Our knowledgeable personnel will help guide you to the solution that will meet all of your needs while protecting your workforce and keeping your facility safe.

How Conductive Bulk Bags Work

Type C FIBCs are constructed of fabrics with conductive carbon, silver core or steel threads woven into them no more than a certain maximum allowable distance apart, creating a Faraday cage. Therefore, when one part of the FIBC is connected to a grounding cable, or comes into contact with any other conductor that is grounded, the entire bag then becomes safely grounded.

Even though not all of the product contacts the conductive threads, the spacing of these threads is such that any isolated charge that develops on the surface of the bag is drawn toward the grounded threads, effectively neutralizing that charge. Once grounded, the bag technically cannot hold onto enough electrostatic energy to cause ignitions of a flammable environment. Although Type C FIBCs still require a great deal of care and caution from operators to ensure they are grounded, they are an effective means of preventing dangerous static discharge hazards.

Where & When Type C FIBCs Work

Using Type C or Groundable FIBCs can be a very effective guard against incendive electrical discharges as long as the bags remain grounded during both filling and discharging of product. If the bag becomes ungrounded during either of these processes for any reason, it can create an extremely dangerous and explosive situation. Great care must be taken by operators to ensure a positive ground is achieved and maintained before beginning to use the FIBC.

When used correctly and consistently, Type C bags can be used in nearly any flammable or combustible environment with very low MIEs (Minimum Ignition Energies). However, Procon Pacific recommends that you consult an expert to determine the most appropriate package for use in your particular environment. With our full understanding of Type C and all other classifications of FIBCs, Procon Pacific can answer any and all questions you might have about the bulk bag solutions that work best for your particular applications.

Testing & Results of Type C FIBCs

Testing of Type C bags is usually accomplished through a simple grounding detector that either lights up or beeps when a complete circuit is formed from the testing device to ground.

Type C FIBC Technology

Type C FIBC technology has been around for a long time and has its positive and negative aspects. It is very safe when used correctly. However, if ungrounded, the bag can be a much greater explosion hazard than a standard polypropylene FIBC and should be used with great care.

There are some companies that refuse to use anything else other than Type C FIBCs in their sensitive processes. For that reason, this is the most common type of FIBC for use in flammable and combustible environments. There is, and always will be a large demand, for these types of packages. If you desire to learn more about using Type C FIBCs, please contact us and we would be happy to consult you on your specific situation. Our professional, experienced and courteous staff can answer just about any question you may have about any type of FIBCs.

Characteristics of Type C FIBCs

  • Conductive threads are interwoven throughout fabric
  • Grounding is required for effective use
  • Very safe when used properly
  • Can be extremely dangerous when left ungrounded during fill or discharge
  • Oldest and most common FIBC to mitigate static discharges in process

Type C FIBC Characteristics

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