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Stainless steel or plastic: What is the best IBC material?

When choosing the right material for intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), the question arises: Stainless steel or plastic? In this article, we look at the properties of both materials and explain why stainless steel is the better solution compared to plastic. This decision is crucial for companies looking for a sustainable and long-term economic solution.

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IBC and container material in comparison

Stainless steel IBCs are characterised by their high levels of durability and robustness. They are corrosion-resistant and withstand mechanical influences, making them ideal for long-term use. When the question is "Metal or plastic?" the best answer is: Stainless steel. The stainless steel offers impressive strength and stability, allowing the containers to withstand even extreme conditions.

The plastic IBCs, usually made of HDPE (high-density polyethylene), are lighter and chemically resistant. HDPE has weakly branched polymer chains that ensure a high density. Nevertheless, plastic IBCs are more susceptible to UV rays, which may lead to material embrittlement and cracks. Mechanical damage such as impact or dropping can affect the integrity of the plastic material in an IBC tank. 

Stainless steel IBCs therefore offer a more durable and resistant solution that meets the demanding conditions in industry and transport as well as the strict requirements for safety and reliability.

Environmental friendliness and recycling

Stainless steel IBCs score points thanks to their impressive recyclability. They are 100% recyclable. The recycling rate for stainless steel KEGs in Germany is already over 90% – and rising. Stainless steel can be reused as an IBC material after decades of use without any loss of quality.

Plastic IBCs, on the other hand, have lower recycling rates and contribute to the problem of microplastics due to complex degradation times. Plastics are often made from crude oil or natural gas, which causes additional environmental pollution due to carbon emissions. The recycling process for plastics is more complex and less efficient, meaning that many plastic IBCs end up in landfill or are incinerated.

Stainless steel IBCs therefore contribute to sustainability by conserving resources and reducing the ecological footprint. Their use supports a circular economy that minimises material waste and reduces the environmental impact.

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Health and safety

Stainless steel IBCs only release a small amount of harmful substances during production and are ideal for applications that require high hygiene standards, such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The smooth surfaces of stainless steel prevent the accumulation of microorganisms, which reduces the risk of contamination. They are easy to clean and sterilise without leaving any chemical residue behind.

Plastic IBCs may contain plasticisers that can migrate into the stored substances or during the transport of liquids. These chemicals may pose health risks, particularly in sensitive applications such as the storage of food or pharmaceutical products.

As an IBC material, stainless steel is resistant to many aggressive chemicals, which enables the safe transport and storage of hazardous goods. The use of stainless steel IBCs offers a safe alternative that guarantees both the integrity of the stored substances and the safety of the user.
 

Economic efficiency and life cycle

Although stainless steel IBCs are initially more expensive to purchase, the costs are relativised by their long service life and lower replacement frequency. The initial investment costs for stainless steel IBCs are higher, but their robustness leads to a significantly longer service life, often for decades.

Plastic IBCs are usually cheaper to buy, but very often have to be replaced after a short period of use. In the long term, such IBC material leads to higher costs due to regular new purchases and the associated logistics costs. In addition, frequent replacements and material wear reduce the overall efficiency of a company.

Stainless steel IBCs therefore offer a more economical solution over the entire life cycle. Companies that rely on stainless steel IBCs benefit from reduced operating costs, reduced maintenance and overall greater cost efficiency.

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Application and versatility

IBC materials such as stainless steel or galvanised steel for the racks are suitable for a wide range of applications. Stainless steel IBCs in particular are robust enough to be used in harsh environments and offer the necessary flexibility for special requirements.

Their structural integrity makes them ideal for the transport and storage of hazardous substances and for use in extreme temperatures. They can be flexibly adapted to special requirements, for example by integrating agitators, level gauges, insulation, special coatings and different connections.

Plastic IBCs offer limited customisation options and are not as versatile in comparison. The customisation of IBCs made from a material such as plastic to meet specific requirements can be complex and cost-intensive, especially if additional connections or special equipment are required. 

Stainless steel IBCs offer a versatile and robust solution for numerous industrial applications.


Ecological footprint and sustainability

The ecological footprint of stainless steel IBCs is smaller, as they require fewer primary resources thanks to recycling and reduce the carbon emissions. Although the production of new stainless steel requires a high energy input, its ability to be reused and fully recycled makes it an extremely sustainable IBC material.

In comparison, plastic IBCs pollute the environment due to their production from crude oil or natural gas and the limited recycling options. Plastic waste contributes significantly to environmental pollution, especially through long-term decomposition into microplastics. The world's oceans are already riddled with microplastics, which permanently destroy biological habitats. 

The use of stainless steel as an IBC material promotes a sustainable circular economy and makes a significant contribution to reducing the environmental impact.

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Application examples and industries

Numerous industries, including chemicals, food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, waste disposal and hazardous goods, benefit from the use of stainless steel IBCs. They offer the necessary robustness and safety for various industrial applications. Stainless steel IBCs are the preferred choice, especially in areas where hygiene and safety are of crucial importance, such as the food and pharmaceutical industries.

IBC materials such as plastic are more limited and are primarily suitable for less demanding applications. The possible applications of plastic IBCs are very limited due to the material properties and the lower level of robustness. Thanks to their versatility and durability, stainless steel IBCs are the better choice for industrial applications that place high demands on safety and reliability.


Conclusion: The best IBC material is stainless steel

Stainless steel IBCs offer clear advantages over plastic IBCs. Their durability, recyclability, safety, economic efficiency and versatility make them the better choice. Companies that opt for stainless steel IBCs are investing in a sustainable and economical long-term solution.

Choosing the right IBC material is crucial for the success and sustainability of a company. Stainless steel IBCs help to reduce operating costs, increase safety and minimise environmental impact. With stainless steel IBCs, companies are opting for a future-proof solution that meets the high demands of modern industrial applications.

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FAQ

What characterises stainless steel IBCs?

Stainless steel IBCs are characterised by high levels of durability and robustness. They are corrosion-resistant and withstand mechanical influences, making them ideal for long-term use.

How environmentally friendly are stainless steel IBCs?

Stainless steel IBCs are 100% recyclable and have a recycling rate of over 90% in Germany. Their use supports the circular economy and minimises the ecological footprint.