Sharp Sand has a high percentage of large particles, giving it a gritty texture that is ideal for use as part of a sub-base for paving, especially on top of Type 1 MOT.

Sharp Sand has a high percentage of large particles, giving it a gritty texture that is ideal for use as part of a sub-base for paving, especially on top of Type 1 MOT.

As a free-draining material, Sharp Sand allows proper drainage, reducing retained surface water on patios, driveways, and pathways.

Use it alongside our Type 1 MOT for a stable sub-base for any paving project.

A Sharp Sand bulk bag covers approximately 8.5m² at a standard depth of 50mm.

HOW BULK BAGS ARE MADE: PART 1

Part 1: Extrusion, Weaving, Coating

Bulk bags are crucial for transportation, but how are they crafted to be so robust? Here’s a breakdown of how FIBC fabrics and bulk bags are made.

What is FIBC fabric? FIBC fabrics, primarily made from polypropylene, are coated with a synthetic film of polypropylene and polyethylene. These fabrics are designed to be strong and versatile, ideal for transporting dry and flowable products.

How is FIBC fabric made? FIBC fabrics are created through the following process:

  1. Extrusion
  2. Weaving
  3. Coating (Lamination)

Extrusion In the extrusion process, raw materials are melted into tapes of specific measurements. The ingredients include polypropylene granules, a small amount of calcium carbonate, a UV stabilizer, and colored pigments if needed. These tapes are then loaded onto bobbins for weaving.

FIBC Fabrics typically consist of:

  • Polypropylene 94.33%
  • Calcium 3.77%
  • UV treatment 2%

Weaving During weaving, the polypropylene tapes from the extrusion process are loaded onto looms. The fabric that forms the bulk bag’s body is woven into shape with warp (vertical tapes) and weft (horizontal tapes) generally at 10-warp x 10-weft tapes per square inch. This fabric has small gaps, making it breathable, which is excellent for some materials but not suitable for others.

Coating (Lamination) For certain applications, the fabric is treated with a laminate coating. In this process, the fabric passes through a thin liquid film of PP & LDPE material, then solidified by chilled rollers. This coating seals the weave’s voids, enhancing the fabric’s physical properties, making it suitable for transporting fine or flowable products and protecting them from moisture.

The lamination material typically consists of:

  • PP 350 FG 75%
  • LD 1070 LA17 25% (No filler used in the lamination process)

After coating, if applicable, the woven fabric is wound onto large spools and stored until it enters the cutting process, marking the start of Phase 2 of production.

Types of Jumbo Bags (FIBC) and Their Applications

Jumbo bags, also known as FIBCs (flexible intermediate bulk containers), are extensively used in various industries for storing and transporting dry, flowable materials. These versatile and durable bags come in different types, each with specific properties and applications. This article explores the four main types of jumbo bags based on their static control properties: A, B, C, and D.

Type A Jumbo Bags:

  • Composition: Made from standard polypropylene (PP) or other non-conductive woven fabrics.
  • Static control: No inherent anti-static properties.
  • Applications: Suitable for non-flammable products such as fertilizers, grains, and chemicals.
  • Precautions: Not recommended for flammable products or combustible environments.

Type B Jumbo Bags:

  • Composition: Similar to Type A, but with an added conductive liner.
  • Static control: Dissipates static electricity up to 6000 volts.
  • Applications: Ideal for dry, powdered, and flammable products like flour, sugar, and resins.
  • Precautions: Avoid using near flammable solvents or gases.

Type C Jumbo Bags:

  • Composition: Combination of conductive and non-conductive PP woven fabrics in a grid pattern.
  • Static control: Requires grounding during filling and discharging to prevent static build-up.
  • Applications: Safe for combustible powders and offers protection in environments with flammable solvents or gases.
  • Precautions: Grounding is essential for safe use. Do not use if damaged.

Type D Jumbo Bags:

  • Composition: Constructed with anti-static and dissipative woven fabrics.
  • Static control: Engineered to prevent sparks, dissipate static charges, and eliminate the need for grounding.
  • Applications: Suitable for highly flammable products and offer the highest level of safety in explosive atmospheres.
  • Precautions: Avoid using if the bag surface is contaminated with conductive materials.

Choosing the Right Jumbo Bag:

Selecting the appropriate jumbo bag type is crucial for safe and efficient product handling. Consider the following factors:

  • Product properties: Flammability, conductivity, and particle size.
  • Intended use: Storage, transportation, or specific process requirements.
  • Environmental factors: Presence of flammable solvents or gases.
  • Regulatory compliance: Adhering to industry standards and safety guidelines.

Conclusion:

By understanding the different types of jumbo bags and their specific properties, businesses can choose the most suitable option for their unique requirements, ensuring optimal product protection, safety, and compliance.

Introduction to FIBC – Jumbo Bag: Understanding the Basics

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container (FIBC) is a type of large, woven bag used for the transportation and storage of dry, flowable products. Also known as Jumbo bags, Big bags, or Bulk bags, FIBCs are commonly used in various industries such as agriculture, mining, construction, and chemicals.

FIBCs are made of woven polypropylene fabric, which provides strength, durability, and tear resistance. The fabric is sewn together to create a bag with a variety of options for closures, lifting, and filling. FIBCs come in a range of sizes, from small bags that hold a few kilograms to bags that can carry up to 2000 kilograms.

One of the most significant benefits of FIBCs is their ability to reduce the cost and environmental impact of packaging. FIBCs can be reused multiple times, reducing waste and the need for disposable packaging. Additionally, FIBCs are lightweight and take up less space than other packaging options, reducing transportation costs and emissions.

FIBCs have many advantages over traditional packaging methods. They are easy to handle, store, and transport, making them a popular choice for many industries. In addition, FIBCs can be customized to meet the specific needs of a product, with options for coatings, liners, and antistatic properties.

In conclusion, FIBCs are a versatile and cost-effective solution for the transportation and storage of dry, flowable products. Understanding the basics of FIBCs can help businesses make informed decisions about their packaging needs, ultimately leading to cost savings and environmental benefits.