Coated, Lined or Uncoated FIBCs with Liners?

When it comes to FIBCs or bulk bags, there are different types of them built for different kinds of products and applications. Therefore, it is understandable that fairly new users will find it challenging to choose between them and find the ideal bulk bag for their needs.

Definitions

For better clarity, let’s begin by defining each of these FIBC types:

Coated FIBCs

Coated FIBCs look very similar to standard uncoated FIBCs. Their method of designing and manufacturing is also highly similar. The only difference, however, is that an additional layer (or coating) of polypropylene film is added to the main fabric before the bag is sewn together. In most cases, this coating is on the inner side of the bag although, in some cases, it can be on the outer side as well.

Uncoated FIBCs

Uncoated FIBCs neither have coatings or linings in them and are made from woven strands of polypropylene. When compared to the aforementioned FIBC variants, they are breathable and allow air to pass through.

Lined FIBCs

As the name suggests, lined FIBCs come with liners that are in-built into the woven propylene. These liners are non-detachable as they are either sewn into the seams of the bulk bag or attached to its material. Lined FIBCs come in four different types and is suited for those with different needs.

FIBC Liners

FIBC liners, also known as poly liners are nothing but add-on plastic liners that can be inserted into standard/uncoated FIBCs.

Applications

Now, let’s examine the application for each of these different types:

Coated FIBCs:

• To prevent fine products like sand, chemicals and powders that may fabric enter the small gaps in the bulk bag’s weaves
• To prohibit the passage of moisture or air into the bag
• To protect products that may get contaminated with dust, air or moisture (salt, flour, detergent, etc)

Uncoated FIBCs:

• To store products that need a more breathable environment like certain food products
• To carry/store products with a particle size exceeding 120 microns

Lined FIBCs

• To prevent extremely fine products and powders that may escape even through coated FIBCs (for example, powdered sugar)
• To keep liquids from entering or leaving the bag

FIBC Liners

• To convert an uncoated/unlined FIBC into a lined one
• To make reusable FIBCs easier to clean and use (by simply discarding the lining)

Which one should you choose?

As you may have just observed, each of FIBCs has its own set of applications for which it is best suited.

A product that requires a breathable bag such as onions, potatoes) will not do well in a coated bulk bag. At the same time, a coated bag will protect small, granular products from going to waste unnecessarily.

While coated bags protect fine particles from escaping the bag and acting as a moisture barrier, only lined bags can provide a liquid barrier. However, despite all their advantages, lined FIBcs do have their own set of limitations as well.

In cases where an FIBC is of 6:1 quality standard (and is meant for multiple uses), for ease of use and effectiveness, FIBC liners do the job perfectly well! FIBC liners are also versatile, giving users the option to convert an uncoated or standard FIBC into a lined one in no time.

Publish: 20 Nov, 2020

Link: https://fibcbigbags.com/fibc-liners/coated-lined-or-uncoated-fibc-with-liners.php