Intermediate bulk containers (also known as IBC tote, IBC tank, IBC, or pallet tank) are stackable, reusable, flexible containers with an integrated pallet base. These multi-use industrial-grade containers are designed to handle, transport, and store liquids, semi-solids, pastes, or solids. They are normally available in 250, 275, 330, 350, 450 and 550 gallon sizes. IBC totes are commonly used in food and beverage production, labs, cosmetics manufacturing, petrochemical/chemical production, oil & gas production, and in many areas of general manufacturing.
Often, the contents of IBC totes need to be heated to prevent freezing or optimize viscosity for pumping or pouring. IBC tote heaters (or just tote heaters) refer to a certain style of flexible and immersion heaters used to heat the contents of intermediate bulk containers. Most applications fall in to these areas: viscosity control, freeze protection, thermal mixing, temperature maintenance, and biofuel / biodiesel heating. Failure in keeping the products inside the IBC could result in the contents being ruined, production delays, or inability to dispense at all, which in turn increases production costs or causes damage. Damaged equipment, replacing ruined materials, or waiting for usable product are expensive prices to pay for improper heating.
Flexible IBC Tote Heaters
This category refers to flexible rubber blanket heaters that sit under, or is fitted around, the IBC tote. These heaters are designed with power densities (watt densities) that will not harm the tote itself, or the material it contains. Flexible tote heaters usually include backside insulation for better thermal and energy efficiency. Other design criteria include thermostats, water resistance for indoor/outdoor use or wash-down environments; 360° grounded heating element for safety; UL certification; 120 or 240 volt plug set.
Immersion IBC Tote Heaters
Immersion heaters are submersible heaters that use direct heat transfer to allow liquid mediums to quickly reach desired temperatures. They are commonly used with all types of tanks and processing equipment and are a cost effective, rapid heating method in almost any industrial or manufacturing environment. Immersion tote heaters design criteria include 120 or 240 VAC operation; a wide variety of flange/screw connection sizes; temperature indicators/displays; temperature controllers/thermostats; hi/low alarms; and power cords /connections types.
For more information about about IBC tote heaters, contact Alliance Technical Sales. Call them at 630-321-9646 or visit their website at https://alliancets.com.
