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BIG BAGS type B and C

During filling and emptying of flexible containers such as big bags, electrostatic discharges (ESD) may occur, which in explosive environments may cause ignition (1).

An explosive environment may result from both the contents of the big bag and the properties of the environment, such as the content of dust or gases.

Depending on the design, discharge properties and purpose, big bags (FIBCs) are divided into several types according to the IEC 61340 standard.

Characteristic features of
Big bags Type B and C

  • BIG BAGS TYPE A – Paktainer Type A is made of fabric that does not have properties that protect against electrostatic discharge.
  • BIG BAGS TYPE B – Paktainer Type B is made of fabric whose breakdown voltage is no more than 6kV. Big bags type B can be used in the presence of flammable dusts, but not in the presence of flammable gases and vapors.
  • BIG BAGS TYPE C – Paktainer Type C is made of fabric in which electrostatic discharge fibers are woven. They can be used in the presence of flammable gases and vapors, as well as flammable dusts. Big bags Type C are grounded during filling and emptying in order to safely disperse (discharge) charges. (2)

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Conditions in which it is necessary to use type b or c big bags

Depending on the minimum ignition energy (MEZ) of the material packed into big bags and the properties of the environment, the requirements for the possibility of using individual types of big bags change. The table below, in accordance with the PN-EN 61340-4-4 standard and the big bags available in the Paktainer offer, shows these relationships:

Product packed in big bag - FIBC Surroundings
Dust Minimum Ignition Energy Non-flammable environments Dust zones 21-22 (1000 mJ >= MEZ >= 3 mJ) Gas zones 1-2 (Explosion groups IIA/IIB) or dust zones 21-22 (MEZ <= 3 mJ)
MEZ > 1000 mJ A, B, C B, C C
1000 mJ >= MEZ >= 3 mJ B, C B, C C
MEZ <= 3 mJ C C C

Security

It should be remembered that the safety of using big bags in explosion-hazardous areas is also influenced by the type of liner used in the container.

Contact our sales department for more information.

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