Stainless Steel IBC Specifications
Stainless steel IBC totes, also called stainless steel intermediate bulk containers or stainless steel Supertainers, are premium reusable containers designed for the most demanding chemical, pharmaceutical, food processing, and high-purity applications. The following specifications cover all technical details for the stainless steel IBC totes carried by IBC Tanks, including steel grades, dimensions, pressure ratings, temperature limits, fitting specifications, weld standards, surface finishes, and regulatory compliance.
Stainless Steel Grade Comparison: 304 vs 316L
IBC Tanks carries stainless steel IBC totes in both 304 and 316L grades. The grade selection depends on the corrosiveness of the stored material, hygiene requirements, and operating environment.
304 Stainless Steel
- Composition: 18% Cr, 8% Ni, balance Fe
- Corrosion Resistance: Excellent general-purpose resistance
- Temperature Range: -325°F to 1,500°F (-198°C to 816°C)
- Weldability: Excellent; post-weld annealing generally not required
- Cost: Lower than 316L; most cost-effective SS IBC option
- Best For: Food & beverage, cosmetics, mild chemicals, oils, general industrial use
- Limitations: Not recommended for strong chlorides, brines, or pitting-corrosion-prone environments
- Magnetic: Yes (austenitic, non-magnetic when annealed)
316L Stainless Steel
- Composition: 16% Cr, 10% Ni, 2% Mo, balance Fe
- Corrosion Resistance: Superior; excellent against pitting, crevice, and stress corrosion cracking
- Temperature Range: -325°F to 1,500°F (-198°C to 816°C)
- Weldability: Good; may require post-weld anneal for severe service
- Cost: 15–25% higher than 304; premium option
- Best For: Pharmaceutical, aggressive chemicals, acids, caustics, saltwater/marine, high-purity applications
- Advantage: Molybdenum addition provides exceptional resistance to chlorides and reducing acids
- Availability: Available on request for all SS IBC models
Grade selection guidance: Choose 304 for general-purpose applications where the material is not highly corrosive or chloride-rich. Choose 316L when the stored material contains chlorides, sulfur compounds, or when the IBC will be used in marine, coastal, or high-humidity environments. 316L is also preferred for pharmaceutical and semiconductor-grade applications requiring maximum purity assurance.
Material Properties and Composition
| Property | 304 SS | 316L SS | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.0 – 20.0% | 16.0 – 18.0% | ASTM A240 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.0 – 10.5% | 10.0 – 14.0% | ASTM A240 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | — | 2.0 – 3.0% | ASTM A240 |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.08% | ≤ 0.035% | ASTM A240 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0% | ≤ 2.0% | ASTM A240 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.75% | ≤ 0.75% | ASTM A240 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045% | ≤ 0.045% | ASTM A240 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.030% | ≤ 0.030% | ASTM A240 |
| Nitrogen (N) | ≤ 0.10% | ≤ 0.10% | ASTM A240 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | Balance | ASTM A240 |
| Density | 0.289 lb/in³ (8.00 g/cm³) | 0.289 lb/in³ (7.99 g/cm³) | — |
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 75 ksi (515 MPa) | ≥ 70 ksi (485 MPa) | ASTM A240 |
| Yield Strength | ≥ 30 ksi (205 MPa) | ≥ 25 ksi (170 MPa) | ASTM A240 |
| Elongation | ≥ 40% | ≥ 40% | ASTM A240 |
| Hardness (Brinell) | ≤ 201 HB | ≤ 217 HB | ASTM A240 |
Stainless Steel IBC Dimensions by Model
All dimensions are approximate and may vary slightly by manufacturer production lot. All models feature 4-way forklift access unless noted.
| Specification | 350 Gallon Supertainer | 450 Gallon Supertainer | 550 Gallon Supertainer | 660 Gallon | 793 Gallon Supertainer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 350 gal (1,325 L) | 450 gal (1,703 L) | 550 gal (2,082 L) | 660 gal (2,498 L) | 793 gal (3,001 L) |
| Overall Length | 46″ (117 cm) | 46″ (117 cm) | 46″ (117 cm) | 46″ (117 cm) | 46″ (117 cm) |
| Overall Width | 42″ (107 cm) | 42″ (107 cm) | 48″ (122 cm) | 48″ (122 cm) | 48″ (122 cm) |
| Overall Height | 58″ (147 cm) | 66″ (168 cm) | 65″ (165 cm) | 72″ (183 cm) | 71″ (180 cm) |
| Tank Shell Thickness | 14 gauge (0.075″) | 14 gauge (0.075″) | 12 gauge (0.105″) | 12 gauge (0.105″) | 10 gauge (0.135″) |
| Fill Opening Diameter | 8″ (20 cm) | 8″ (20 cm) | 8″ (20 cm) | 8″ (20 cm) | 12″ (30 cm) |
| Fill Cover Type | Bolted | Bolted | Bolted | Bolted | Bolted |
| Drain Valve Size | 2″ NPT | 2″ NPT | 2″ NPT | 2″ NPT | 2″ NPT |
| Vent Fitting | 1″ NPT | 1″ NPT | 1″ NPT | 1″ NPT | 1″ NPT |
| Pallet Base | 46″ × 42″ | 46″ × 42″ | 46″ × 48″ | 46″ × 48″ | 46″ × 48″ |
| Pallet Height | 4″ (10 cm) | 4″ (10 cm) | 4″ (10 cm) | 4″ (10 cm) | 4″ (10 cm) |
| Forklift Access | 4-way | 4-way | 4-way | 4-way | 4-way |
| Tare Weight (Empty) | 850 lbs (386 kg) | 950 lbs (431 kg) | 1,100 lbs (499 kg) | 1,250 lbs (567 kg) | 1,350 lbs (612 kg) |
| Gross Weight (Water) | 3,775 lbs (1,712 kg) | 4,700 lbs (2,132 kg) | 5,690 lbs (2,581 kg) | 6,755 lbs (3,065 kg) | 7,970 lbs (3,614 kg) |
| Stackable | No (single unit only) | No | No | No | No |
| Stacking (Empty) | Up to 2 high | Up to 2 high | Up to 2 high | Up to 2 high | Up to 2 high |
Height note: Overall height includes the pallet base and the top cover/fittings. The tank shell height (excluding pallet) is approximately 4 inches less than the overall height. Confirm exact height measurements for your facility clearance before ordering.
Pressure and Temperature Ratings
| Rating | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Design Pressure (Internal) | 1.5 psig (0.10 bar) | Per UN31A design code; vented to atmosphere during normal operation |
| Test Pressure (Hydrostatic) | 2.5 psig (0.17 bar) | Factory hydrostatic test per UN requirements; maintained for ≥ 10 minutes |
| Vent Pressure (Opening) | −0.3 to +0.3 psig | Atmospheric breather vent prevents pressure buildup during filling/dispensing |
| Emergency Vent | 2.0 ± 0.5 psig | Spring-loaded pressure/vacuum relief activates at overpressure or vacuum conditions |
| Vacuum Rating | −1.5 psig (−0.10 bar) | Maximum vacuum without container deformation |
| Minimum Operating Temp | −40°F (−40°C) | Limited by gasket and seal materials |
| Maximum Operating Temp | 250°F (121°C) | Limited by gasket and seal materials; steel itself rated to 1,500°F |
| Steel Melting Point | 2,550–2,650°F (1,400–1,454°C) | 304 SS range; for reference only — never approach in service |
| Specific Gravity Rating | Engineered per application | Steel construction allows any SG; design governed by liquid density |
| Filling Rate | Up to 200 GPM | Recommended max fill rate through 2″ drain valve or 8″ fill opening |
| Drain Rate | Gravity: up to 150 GPM | Through 2″ bottom ball valve with water-equivalent SG 1.0 liquid |
Temperature limitation note: While 304 and 316L stainless steel can withstand temperatures up to 1,500°F (816°C), the IBC’s elastomeric gaskets, seals, and valve components are the limiting factor. Standard gaskets are rated to approximately 250°F (121°C). High-temperature gaskets and seals are available on request for applications requiring elevated temperature service up to 400°F (204°C). Always verify all component temperature ratings before hot-fill operations.
Fitting and Connection Specifications
| Fitting | Size | Type | Material | Standard | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Fill Opening | 8″ (350/450/550 gal) | 12″ (793 gal) | Flanged, bolted cover | 304/316L SS | Custom machined |
| Cover Gasket | 8″ / 12″ ID | Full-face | EPDM or Viton | ASTM D1419 / D2000 | |
| Cover Bolts | 8 × 5/16″-18 (8″) | 12 × 5/16″-18 (12″) | Hex head | 18-8 SS | ASTM F594 |
| Bottom Drain Valve | 2″ NPT | Ball valve | 316L SS body | — | |
| Drain Valve Handle | Lever-type, 1/4-turn operation, lockable in closed position | ||||
| Vent Fitting | 1″ NPT | Threaded | 316L SS plug with PTFE seal | — | |
| Emergency Vent | 1″ NPT | Spring-loaded relief | 316L SS body, SS internals | API 2000 / UL 142 | |
| Drain Outlet Connection | 2″ NPT female | Threaded | Welded to tank bottom | ASME B1.20.1 | |
| Optional: Camlock | 2″ × 2″ | Quick disconnect | 316L SS or aluminum | MIL-C-27488 | |
| Optional: Sanitary | 2″ Tri-clamp | Sanitize-fit | 316L SS with sanitary gasket | 3A / ISO 2852 | |
| Optional: TC Butterfly | 2″ | Butterfly valve | 316L SS body, SS disc | 3A / ISO 2852 | |
Welding Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Weld Process | TIG (GTAW) | AWS D18.1 / ASME Section IX |
| Filler Metal | ER308L (for 304 SS) | AWS A5.9 / ASME SFA-5.9 |
| Filler Metal (316L) | ER316L | AWS A5.9 / ASME SFA-5.9 |
| Shielding Gas | Argon (Ar) | AWS A5.9 |
| Weld Joint Design | Butt, full-penetration | ASME Section VIII |
| Weld Quality | 100% radiographed | Per manufacturer QC procedure |
| Weld Finish | As-welded (cleaned) | Interior ground/polished post-weld |
| Post-Weld Treatment | Pickling, passivation | ASTM A967 / ASTM A380 |
| Dye Penetrant Test | Required — all shell welds | ASTM E165 |
| Leak Test | Pneumatic, 1.5 psig, 10+ min hold | Per UN31A requirements |
Passivation: All stainless steel IBC tanks undergo pickling and passivation treatment after fabrication. Passivation removes free iron from the surface and enhances the chromium oxide layer, providing maximum corrosion resistance. The passivation process conforms to ASTM A967 (chemical passivation) or ASTM A380 (nitric acid passivation) requirements.
Surface Finish Options
| Finish Type | Ra Value | Description | Application | Available | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B (Mill Finish) | 20 – 40 μin (0.5 – 1.0 μm) | Cold-rolled, annealed, pickled; standard mill finish with uniform dull appearance | General chemical, oil & gas, industrial | Standard on all models | |
| #4 Satin | 15 – 25 μin (0.38 – 0.63 μm) | Polished with non-directional satin finish; reduced adhesion, easy to clean | Food, beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceutical | Available on request | |
| #8 Mirror | 8 – 16 μin (0.20 – 0.40 μm) | High-gloss mirror polish; maximum cleanability and aesthetic appearance | Pharmaceutical, high-purity, sanitary | Available on request | |
| Electropolished | Ra ≤ 15 μin (0.38 μm) | Electrochemical polishing removes surface iron, creates passive chromium oxide layer; ultra-smooth, sanitary | Pharmaceutical, biotech, semiconductor, ultra-pure | Available on request |
Surface finish recommendation: For food, beverage, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications, specify #4 satin or electropolished finish. The smoother surface reduces product adhesion, simplifies cleaning and sanitization, and eliminates crevices where bacteria can harbor. Electropolishing provides the highest level of corrosion resistance by ensuring a uniform, chromium-rich surface layer.
UN/DOT Compliance and Regulatory Standards
| Standard / Code | Description | Applicability |
|---|---|---|
| UN31A | UN portable tank for liquids, metal, ≤ 1.5 m³ (396 gal), closed, designed for ≥ 1.5 psig test pressure | All stainless steel IBC totes for hazardous liquid transport |
| Title 49 CFR | US Department of Transportation hazardous materials regulations | Governs marking, labeling, documentation, and transport of hazardous materials in SS IBCs |
| Packing Group II | Substances with medium danger — flash point > 23°C / 73°F; cannot include PG I materials | Most chemicals, food products, oils stored in SS IBCs |
| Packing Group III | Substances with low danger — flash point > 60.5°C / 141°F; minimal regulatory burden | Lubricants, mild chemicals, non-hazardous materials |
| NFPA 30 | National Fire Protection Association — Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code | SS IBC design, construction, and storage requirements for flammable liquids in compliant facilities |
| FDA 21 CFR | US Food and Drug Administration food contact regulations | Food-grade 304 SS IBCs for food, beverage, and consumable product storage |
| ANSI/NSF 61 | Drinking water system components — health effects evaluation | Potable water IBCs; confirms no harmful leaching from stainless steel |
| ASME | American Society of Mechanical Engineers — pressure vessel design codes | Manufacturing and testing standards referenced in IBC construction |
| ASTM A240 / A480 | Standard Specification for Austenitic Stainless Steel / General Requirements for Flat-Rolled SS | Base material specification for SS IBC shell construction |
| ASTM A967 / A380 | Passivation treatments for stainless steel | Post-fabrication surface treatment for corrosion resistance |
| ISO 9001 | Quality management system requirements | Manufacturer quality assurance program |
| ISO 21496-1 | Non-pressurizedIBC design, construction, testing — UN portable tanks for liquids | International UN standard for IBC design and testing |
| TC/UN Marking | UN certification mark stamped or labeled on tank body per UN portable tank requirements | Visible on all UN-certified SS IBC tanks |
PG I materials: UN31A stainless steel IBC totes are rated for Packing Group II and III materials only. Packing Group I (highly dangerous, flash point ≤ 23°C) materials cannot be transported in UN31A IBCs regardless of material construction. For PG I liquids, specialized pressure vessels designed to higher UN codes may be required.
Interior Coating Specifications
| Coating Type | Application | Dry Film Thickness | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epoxy Phenolic | Standard interior coating for carbon steel IBCs; optional for SS for specific chemical compatibility | 8–12 mils (203–305 μm) | Interior lining standard per manufacturer |
| None (Bare SS) | Standard for most stainless steel IBCs — bare 304/316L steel interior | N/A | Preferred for most chemical, food, and pharmaceutical applications |
| Electropolished Interior | Ultra-smooth, sanitary finish inside the tank for maximum cleanability | N/A (surface treatment, not coating) | Pharmaceutical, biotech, food-grade (optional upgrade) |
| Passivated Interior | Chemical treatment to remove surface iron and maximize chromium oxide passive layer | N/A (surface treatment) | Standard on all SS IBCs — ASTM A967 or A380 |
| PVDF Liner (Optional) | For aggressive acids and specialty chemicals requiring maximum chemical isolation | 20–40 mils (508–1,016 μm) | Custom order for specific chemical compatibility |
Bare steel recommendation: For most applications, the uncoated passivated stainless steel interior is the preferred choice. It provides excellent chemical resistance, eliminates coating delamination risk, allows visual interior inspection, and is compatible with high-temperature cleaning and sterilization (CIP/SIP). Interior coatings are only recommended when specific chemical compatibility testing indicates they are necessary.
Design and Construction Standards
| Element | Specification |
|---|---|
| Tank Body | Welded cylindrical shell with dished top and bottom heads; cylindrical body with top and bottom torispherical heads |
| Top Head | Dished torispherical head with bolted flange for fill opening |
| Bottom Head | Dished torispherical head with welded sump for drain outlet |
| Sump Design | Formed into bottom head with slope toward drain outlet; ensures complete drainage |
| Top Skirt | Extended top edge (approximately 3″ wide) that overlaps the cover flange to shed liquid away from bolted connection |
| Pallet Base | Welded structural steel pallet base with 4-way forklift channels; bolted to tank bottom |
| Lifting Lugs | Four (4) welded lifting lugs on top — two near front, two near back |
| Drain Outlet | 2″ NPT female coupling welded to bottom center of sump |
| Vent Outlet | 1″ NPT coupling welded to top head (standard) or side of shell |
| Emergency Vent | 1″ NPT coupling welded to top head with spring-loaded PV vent valve |
| Stacking Lugs | Four (4) welded stacking lugs on pallet base — two on each long side |
| Stacking Lug Capacity | Designed for stacking empty IBCs 2 high |
| Corner Protection | Plastic or rubber corner protectors installed on pallet corners |
| Marking Plate | Stainless steel data plate welded to tank with UN marking, capacity, tare weight, test pressure, manufacture date, max fill SG, model number |
Weight Specifications by Model
| Model | Capacity | Tare Weight | Gross @ 1.0 SG | Gross @ 1.35 SG | Gross @ 1.5 SG | Gross @ 1.9 SG | Gross @ 2.0 SG | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 350 gal Supertainer | 350 gal | 850 lbs | 3,775 lbs | 4,801 lbs | 5,328 lbs | 6,347 lbs | 6,900 lbs | |||
| 450 gal Supertainer | 450 gal | 950 lbs | 4,703 lbs | 6,079 lbs | 6,736 lbs | 8,050 lbs | 9,263 lbs | |||
| 550 gal Supertainer | 550 gal | 1,100 lbs | 5,690 lbs | 7,348 lbs | 8,141 lbs | 9,693 lbs | 11,240 lbs | |||
| 660 gal | 660 gal | 1,250 lbs | 6,754 lbs | 8,699 lbs | 9,630 lbs | 11,463 lbs | 13,196 lbs | |||
| 793 gal Supertainer | 793 gal | 1,350 lbs | 7,970 lbs | 10,216 lbs | 11,316 lbs | 13,417 lbs | 15,118 lbs |
Weight calculation: Gross Weight = Tare Weight + (Gallons × 8.34 × SG). For example, a 550-gallon SS IBC filled with a 1.5 SG chemical: 1,100 + (550 × 8.34 × 1.5) = 1,100 + 6,880 = 7,980 lbs. Always include the tare weight in your handling and floor load calculations.
Testing and Quality Control
| Test | Requirement | Frequency | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrostatic Pressure Test | 2.5 psig for 10+ minutes, no leakage or permanent deformation | 100% of tanks | UN portable tank regulations |
| Leak Test (Pneumatic) | 1.5 psig air pressure for 10+ minutes, no leakage detected | 100% of tanks | UN portable tank regulations |
| Dimensional Verification | All critical dimensions within ±1/8″ of specification | 100% of tanks | Manufacturer QC |
| Visual Inspection | No cracks, porosity, spatter, undercut, or surface defects | 100% of welds and body | ASTM E165 (DPT) |
| Dye Penetrant Test | No linear indications exceeding specified acceptance criteria | 100% of welds | ASTM E165 |
| Material Certification | Mill test report (MTR) for shell steel — chemistry, tensile, yield per ASTM A240 | Per heat lot | ASTM A240 |
| Passivation Verification | Free iron test per ASTM A380 or equivalent confirms passivation | Per lot | ASTM A380 |
| Vent Function Test | Emergency pressure vent opens at rated pressure; seals when closed | 100% of vents | API 2000 / UL 142 |
| Drain Valve Operation | Full open/close cycle, no binding, no external leakage | 100% of valves | Manufacturer QC |
| Cover Seal Test | Gasket seal integrity verified with no leaks | 100% of covers | Manufacturer QC |
| UN Marking Verification | UN marking complete, legible, correct per UN portable tank requirements | 100% of tanks | 49 CFR 178.603 |
Gasket and Seal Specifications
| Component | Material | Temperature Range | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fill Cover Gasket | EPDM (standard) | −40°F to 250°F (−40°C to 121°C) | ASTM D1419 Type 2 |
| Fill Cover Gasket (Alt) | Viton (FKM) | 0°F to 400°F (−18°C to 204°C) | ASTM D1419 Type 4 |
| Drain Valve Seal | PTFE (Teflon) | −20°F to 500°F (−29°C to 260°C) | ASTM D6394 |
| Vent Plug Seal | PTFE with EPDM backing | −20°F to 400°F (−29°C to 204°C) | Custom specification |
| Emergency Vent Seal | Viton with SS spring | 0°F to 400°F (−18°C to 204°C) | API 2000 / UL 142 |
| Camlock Gasket (Opt.) | Nitrile (standard) or EPDM / Viton | Per material selection | Custom specification |
| Tri-Clamp Gasket (Opt.) | Silicone (standard) or EPDM / Viton | Per material selection | 3A / ISO 2852 |
Gasket compatibility: Always verify gasket material compatibility with the stored material and operating temperature before filling. Some aggressive chemicals (certain solvents, aromatics, and halogenated compounds) may attack EPDM. For these applications, specify Viton (FKM) gaskets or PTFE-sealed components. Contact IBC Tanks for specific gasket recommendations for your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 304 and 316L stainless steel IBC totes?
304 stainless steel is an 18/8 alloy (18% chromium, 8% nickel) that provides excellent general corrosion resistance and is suitable for food, beverage, cosmetic, mild chemical, and oil applications. 316L stainless steel adds 2% molybdenum, which significantly improves resistance to pitting corrosion, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking — particularly in chloride-containing environments. 316L is the preferred choice for pharmaceutical, marine, and aggressive chemical applications.
Are stainless steel IBC totes food grade?
Yes. Stainless steel IBC totes made from 304 or 316L stainless steel are inherently food grade. The stainless steel surface is non-reactive, non-porous, and does not leach contaminants into stored products. With an appropriate surface finish (#4 satin or electropolished) and proper cleaning procedures, SS IBCs meet FDA 21 CFR requirements for food contact surfaces. They are widely used in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic manufacturing.
Can stainless steel IBC totes be stacked?
Empty stainless steel IBC totes can be stacked up to 2 high using the integrated stacking lugs on the pallet base. SS IBCs must not be stacked when full — this is a critical safety requirement. Unlike all-plastic stackable IBC tanks, metal IBCs are not designed to support the weight of another loaded container above them. Always verify stacking lug engagement is secure before lifting.
What UN code applies to stainless steel IBC totes?
Stainless steel IBC totes carry the UN31A marking, which designates a portable tank for liquids, metal construction, with a maximum capacity of 1.5 cubic meters (396 gallons) and a minimum design pressure of 1.5 psig. IBCs exceeding 396 gallons carry the same UN31A code as they are engineered to the same performance standard. The UN marking is stamped or affixed to the data plate on the tank body.
What is the service life of a stainless steel IBC tote?
Stainless steel IBC totes have the longest service life of any IBC type. With proper maintenance — periodic inspection, cleaning, gasket replacement, and passivation re-treatment — a stainless steel IBC can provide 20 to 25+ years of service. The thick steel shell resists denting, corrosion, UV degradation, and chemical attack far better than HDPE containers. This long service life makes SS IBCs the most cost-effective choice for high-turnover reusable applications despite the higher initial purchase price.
Can stainless steel IBC totes be pressure vessels?
No. Stainless steel IBC totes are designed as atmospheric-pressure containers with a 1.5 psig design pressure rating and a 2.5 psig hydrostatic test pressure. They are not designed as pressure vessels per ASME Section VIII. For pressurized liquid storage or transport at pressures above 1.5 psig, a properly rated ASME pressure vessel must be used instead.
Do stainless steel IBC totes need to be lined?
In most cases, no. The bare passivated 304 or 316L stainless steel interior provides excellent chemical resistance for the majority of stored materials. Interior coatings (epoxy phenolic or PVDF) are available as options when specific chemical compatibility testing indicates that bare steel is insufficient. Coatings add an additional layer of protection but introduce the risk of delamination, coating damage, and limited re-coating feasibility. Bare steel is the preferred choice whenever chemical compatibility allows.
How do you clean a stainless steel IBC tote?
Clean-in-place (CIP) procedures using appropriate cleaning agents for the stored material are standard. Typical CIP involves flushing with water, circulating a caustic solution (2% NaOH), rinsing, followed by an acid passivation rinse (dilute nitric acid). For food and pharmaceutical applications, sanitize with an appropriate sanitizing agent after cleaning. The smooth interior surface of SS IBCs (especially with satin or electropolished finish) makes them significantly easier to clean and sanitize than plastic IBCs.
For additional IBC specifications, see our IBC tote dimensions page or full specifications page. Browse all stainless steel IBC totes available with domestic stock and wholesale pricing.