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.

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There’s a common thread running through automotive components, reusable containers of different types, plastic parts, packaging and labeling, loudspeakers, polymer banknotes, stationery, textiles, carpets, ropes, and thermal underwear. It is Polypropylene, abbreviated as PP. PP is a recyclable thermoplastic polymer widely used in these applications. Rugged and unaffected by different chemical solvents, acids, and bases, the PP recycling code is as per the type of resin used, as in the case of all plastic products – PP’s resin identification code is 5. The global demand for PP materials is quite high. Transparency Market Research has indicated that presently the PP market worldwide is valued at more than $80 billion. By 2023 it should touch $133.3 billion according to the research agency.

PP recycling is vital for the environment

Of all plastic packaging products in the United Kingdom and the United States, PP is the single most used plastic packaging, thanks to its melting point and strong bearing. In the year 2010 alone five billion pounds of PP was produced in the United States. Sadly though, it has been revealed by the American Chemistry Council that PP is one of the least recycled post-consumer plastics, at a rate of below 1 percent for post-consumer PP foam. And this is a bad thing for the environment.

PP has a short life, so most of these thermoplastics land in landfills to be wasted. Twenty percent approximately of solid waste produced comprises some form of plastic which includes PP according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. This PP contained solid waste degrades very slowly in landfills, about 20 to 30 years to be fully decomposed. Naturally, this poses a severe threat to the environment. Additives used in plastic products may contain toxins such as lead and cadmium. Cadmium contained in plastic products has the potential to permeate and can affect some bio-systems. If you burn thermoplastics like PP it can discharge toxins and vinyl chloride. Against this backdrop Recycling Polypropylene assumes importance.

The Polypropylene Recycling Process

The Polypropylene Recycling Process comprises the collection, sorting, cleaning, reprocessing by melting and then producing new products from the recycled PP.. The reprocessing by melting and then producing the new product from the recycled PP are important steps in the Polypropylene Recycling Process. In the reprocessing phase, collected PP products are fed into an extruder where it is melted at 4640F (2400C) and cut into granules. The pellets are then ready to be used in the production of new products. Current technologies enable the melting of PP and its usage in the production of new items.

The power of Polypropylene

Polypropylene produces less solid waste by weight than PET, PS or PVC. Thus many recycling applications exist for Polypropylene: battery cases, paint cans, home storage, flower pots, pallets, crates, composite lumber, and more. In the US, out of the 51 largest US municipalities of the state, 44 collect polypropylene.

Polypropylene and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) produce significantly less CO2 equivalents by weight than PET, PS, and PVC. And Polypropylene parts can be 100% recycled for various useful purposes. A market for recycled PP (rPP) exists in an extensive range of products such as automotive applications, buckets, caps and closures, garden furniture, pallets, pipes, and more.

The Environmental Benefits of Recycling PP

When PP is recycled, there is a reduction in the consumption of raw, finite resources, such as oil and propane gas. Around 8% of the oil used worldwide (around 400 million tons) is implemented in the traditional methods of plastic production with 4% as ‘feedstock’ and another 4% in manufacturing. There is also an 88% reduction in energy usage if plastic is produced from plastic. So plastic to plastic recycling is environmentally friendly.

Given its inherent flexibility, PP can be recycled back into many different products, including clothing fibers, industrial fibres, food containers, dishware etc.

Rising Demand for Food Grade FIBC Bulk Bags: Implications for Sales and Market Expansion

The FIBC market is forecast to expand at 5.4% CAGR over the estimated period, as per FMI’s analysis. The industry’s size is predicted to reach a market value of US$ 7.5 billion in 2023.

The demand for food grade FIBC bulk bags is on the rise, notably impacting sales as these bags are increasingly sought after by food companies. Traditionally utilized in the chemical industry, FIBCs are now gaining traction in the food sector due to their suitability for commercial food operations.

Key attributes driving this surge in demand include their high load-carrying capacity, versatility, reusability, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendly materials. FIBCs offer optimal protection for food products through features such as dust-proof seams and laminated fabric sides, guarding against moisture and maintaining product integrity.

Innovative bulk bags incorporating polyethylene, foil, and other lining materials are gaining popularity for their ability to shield food items from harsh environments, spillage, and damage. Furthermore, the ease of customization and quality printing options enable end users to establish their brands effectively and promote products with confidence.

Top Highlights from the FMI’s Analysis of the FIBC Market: 

  • The Europe region acquired a massive share of 32.4% in the FIBC industry in 2022. Regional growth is expected to continue exhibiting an upward trajectory in the coming years.
  • In the overall FIBC industry, North America gained a 24.9% market share in 2022.
  • The United States FIBC industry is forecast to garner more than 18.9% value share in the year 2023.
  • The German market is expected to procure a value share surpassing 5.6%% in 2023.
  • The Japanese FIBC industry is projected to obtain a value share exceeding 8.1% in 2023.
  • The India FIBC industry is forecast to expand at a CAGR of 6.9% over the forecast period.
  • The Chinese FIBC industry is projected to accelerate at a CAGR of 5.7% over the estimated period.
  • The United Kingdom is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 3.1% from 2023 to 2033.
  • Based on capacity, the ‘above 750 kgs’ segments gained 55.5% market share in 2022.
  • Based on end-use, chemicals, and fertilizers acquired a 41.1% value share in 2022.

Innovation Watch: Key Developments in the Market

  • In May 2023, Packem Umasree commissioned a sustainable FIBC plant in Ahmedabad. This is the company’s first plant in India and is second to the one built in Brazil. The company manufactures 100% sustainable FIBCs or jumbo bags made of recycled PET. The Brazil unit of the company serves the local market, whereas the new plant in India is projected to cater to markets outside of Brazil. The company is expected to export a substantial proportion of the Ahmedabad plant’s output to Europe and North America.
  • Global-Pak announced a new recycling program in September 2022. The corporation is working with PureCycle to process and recycle bulk bags. PureCycle deploys a solvent-based purification technology to process polypropylene waste into an extremely pure resin that can be constantly reused and recycled. One of the many products the company is interested in is used bulk bags.

Global FIBC Industry by Category

By Packaging Type:

  • Q-bags
  • Baffle Bags
  • Circular Bags
  • 6-panel
  • Others

By Capacity:

  • Upto 250 Kg
  • 250 kgs – 750 Kgs
  • Above 750 Kgs

By End User:

  • Building & Construction
  • Chemicals & Fertilizers
  • Food Products & Agriculture
  • Pharmaceuticals Products
  • Mining

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Europe
  • Middle East and Africa
  • East Asia
  • South Asia
  • Oceania

FIBC Material: What Are Bulk Bags Made Of?

Bulk bags are made of polypropylene fabric, a strong, durable, and thermoplastic polymer FIBC material that’s resistant to moisture, chemicals, and UV radiation. Coatings provide extra protection, and bags feature woven polypropylene lifting loops for easy handling.

There are a number of bulk bag specs that are designed to meet Department of Transport (DOT) requirements for transport, including the:

  • Thickness of individual threads (denier)
  • Fabric weight (GSM)
  • Strength of the yarn and fabric.

From these engineering specs, each bag is specifically designed to pass a number of stress tests, including drop and jerk forces, that could affect the integrity of each bag during transport.

When purchasing an FIBC, the most important bulk bag spec is the bag capacity (or bag size), which can range from 500 to 4,000 pounds when filled.

Also, the styles and types of FIBC bags should be considered when choosing an FIBC to meet your product storage and transport applications:

  • Type A FIBC: No Electrostatic Protection
  • Type B FIBC: Surface Breakdown Voltage of <6kV
  • Type C FIBC: Electrically Conductive or Groundable
  • Type D FIBC: Static Dissipative

Within these FIBC bag types, you will find different styles to meet your bagging needs, including rectangular or four-panel bags, duffle top bags, and circular bulk bags. For each bag style, the manner in which they are constructed will be similar, other than the type of material, size, and shape.

If you’re unsure which of these bags you need, get in touch with the team here at Palmetto Industries so we can discuss your needs further.

The FIBC Bags Manufacturing Process

The FIBC bags manufacturing process we take is as follows:

  1. Extrusion
  2. Weaving
  3. Vacuuming
  4. Lamination
  5. Printing
  6. Cutting
  7. Sewing
  8. Final Testing

Let’s take a look at each of these steps in more detail so you can see exactly how we optimize your product for your needs:

1. Extrusion: Feeding in the FIBC material

The making of a bulk bag begins with the feeding of polypropylene (PP) resin and other additives into an extruder to produce PP tapes that vary in thickness and width.

The melted resin forms PP sheets that are stretched by rollers, then cut.

2. Weaving

The tapes are then wound onto bobbins to start the weaving process which will create the FIBC fabric.

The fabric weaving is performed on special looms to make either circular shaped bags or U-panels for the various other FIBC bag styles.

3. Vacuuming

If the fabric is to be coated, the bags are vacuumed to release dust particles, and the bag is then passed through a static eliminator.

4. Lamination

A lamination process then applies a protective coating of polypropylene which will increase the bags’ resistance to moisture and sifting. Breathable fabric bags are left uncoated.

5. Printing

At this point, the bags are printed with an FDA-approved printing ink, suitable for food contact. The ink that is used will dry quickly to eliminate smears or running.

6. Cutting

Next, a computer program controls the precision cutting of the woven fabric from the rolls into the required sizes for the bag assembly process.

7. Sewing

Finally, highly-trained employees complete the manufacturing process by sewing the fabric pieces together to create each bulk bag. All bags are sewn in an FDA-approved clean room to maintain sanitation requirements.

8. Final Testing

While we continuously QA our bulk bags through the manufacturing process, at this stage, filler cords are sewn into the seams and the bags will move on through different types of testing to final approval.

Key Takeaways On The FIBC Manufacturing Process

The FIBC manufacturing process involves several key steps, but, depending on the specific requirements, additional processes may be applied.

For instance, coatings like polyethylene or polypropylene can be applied to enhance moisture resistance, and printing machines may add logos or other information onto the fabric’s surface.

After the fabric is woven and any optional coatings or printing are applied, it is ready for bag construction and final inspection. This meticulous manufacturing process ensures that FIBCs meet industry standards and can withstand the rigors of transporting and storing bulk materials effectively.

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.