Operations

Cleaning drums is a controlled operation. Read this first, then proceed with the steps below. Check the SDS of the last product for PPE, incompatibilities, and disposal guidance. [4] Wear PPE: chemical-resistant gloves, goggles/face shield, protective clothing; respirator if required by the SDS. [4] Ventilation: work outdoors or in a ventilated wash bay with spill control. Segregate residues: never mix acids with bases, oxidizers with organics, or chlorine bleach with ammonia/acidic cleaners. Containment: use drip pans and a sump; keep absorbents on hand. Regulatory note: manage residues/rinse water under local rules (e.g., U.S. RCRA “empty container” and rinsate management). [1–3]

Most composite IBCs (275- and 330-gallon) combine: Inner bottle: high-density polyethylene (HDPE) Outer cage: galvanized steel Base: plastic, steel, or wood pallet In recycling, HDPE and steel are the primary targets. Wood bases are usually reused or recycled separately; plastic bases can be recycled with other rigid plastics if the local program accepts them.

1) Specify it right (before the tote is ever filled) Match materials to the product Bottle: HDPE works for many liquids; stainless or specialty polymers may be needed for strong solvents or hot fill. Seals: Choose EPDM (water, mild chemicals), FKM/Viton (oils, fuels, many solvents), or PTFE (broad chemical resistance). Using the wrong elastomer is a slow-motion leak.

When stored outdoors, IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers) are exposed to ambient weather. If contents freeze, you risk: Operational delays: contents won’t dispense or pump. Container damage: expansion can crack the inner HDPE bottle, warp the cage/pallet, and split fittings/hoses. Product loss/quality issues: many liquids (e.g., emulsions, certain chemicals) are freeze-sensitive and degrade after a hard freeze.

Knowing the weight of an empty IBC tote is important for: Shipping logistics – total load calculations for trucks or containers. Warehouse storage – ensuring racks, pallets, or floors can safely support full totes. Handling equipment – forklifts and pallet jacks must be rated to lift filled weights. The weight of the tote is only part of the equation—when filled, a 275-gallon tote of water can weigh over 2,200 pounds, and a 330-gallon tote can weigh more than 2,750 pounds.