Compact design – maximum performance Ecobulk MX 560 expands Schütz's product range

The compact packaging solution is individually configurable for a wide range of applications – the new Ecobulk MX 560. (Photo: SCHÜTZ)

The Ecobulk MX 560 combines optimal fill volume with a low container height and proven undercarriage. (Photo: SCHÜTZ)

Different requirements in the supply chain demand maximum flexibility and a diverse, continuously customer-oriented range of packaging solutions. To meet this demand, Schütz is now expanding its extensive product range with the new Ecobulk MX 560. This IBC features a particularly shallow design and has a nominal volume of 560 liters or 150 gallons. Therefore, the new container is ideally suited for applications where smaller packages are advantageous, but maximum performance and the highest quality are also required. The MX 560 combines optimal fill volume with a low container height and a proven base frame. It corresponds to those of the MX types with capacities of 820, 1,000, and 1,250 liters. All these models of the MX line are thus compatible.

The development of the new container based on the globally successful palette with dimensions 1,200 x 1,000 millimeters ensures particularly flexible handling. Existing systems and machines of the customer, which are set to these dimensions, can therefore also be used with the MX 560. An economic advantage in sea freight: this pallet size guarantees an ideal utilization of storage and transport space in standardized large containers, even with mixed loads with the larger MX IBC variants. For example, with a triple stacking of this model, a total of 30 IBCs can fit into a 20' ISO container. The four horizontal pipes of the shallow wire mesh basket provide the necessary stability and secure hold. The large metal labeling panel covering eight fields of the steel cage also offers ample space for detailed product labels.

Lightweight with economic benefits

Compact container sizes are preferred, for example, in agriculture and agro-chemicals. Especially in North America, IBCs with smaller volumes are used for targeted application of concentrated plant protection or seed treatment agents with high product value. Ease of handling during use and storage is also a priority for users. Here, the Ecobulk MX 560 impresses across the board: Due to its low weight in both filled and empty states, it is easy to handle in daily use – especially compared to stainless steel containers and steel or plastic drums. With its reduced capacity on an optimal footprint, the new Schütz IBC enables lower capital commitment and shorter storage times with low product turnover. This also reduces the risk of the product becoming unusable due to aging. If needed, the IBC can additionally be equipped with an EVOH permeation barrier. As a barrier layer in the IBC inner bladder, it ensures product quality, protects the filling product from changes, and shields the environment from environmental impacts by stopping the ingress and egress of oxygen, nitrogen, and other gases.

Optional configurations open up broad application fields

With additional optional features, this compact IBC can be used in many other areas – for example, in the Foodcert version. The corresponding system certification according to the industry standard FSSC 22000 guarantees compliance with the demanding requirements for materials, processes, and products in the food sector. For highly sensitive goods from the non-food segment, where safety and technical cleanliness are essential, Schütz also produces the Ecobulk MX 560 in the Cleancert variant.

An explosion protection option with a grounded outlet valve and palette, as well as an inner container with antistatic equipment, makes the IBC ready for use in explosion hazard zones 1 and 2, and for the transport of liquids with a flash point ≤ 60°C. Additional optional components include a check valve in the outlet valve. This check valve prevents the backflow of the filling material into the container – a frequently used function, especially in the field of plant protection products. For optimal filling and emptying during transport, storage, and discharge, a breather system consisting of a plug, membrane, and valve is offered in the IBC’s screw cap. Thanks to these comprehensive configuration options, depending on the filling material and application, customers benefit from maximum efficiency and safety.

Of course, the Ecobulk MX 560 is also connected to Schütz Ticket Service. The order for the hassle-free pickup of emptied IBCs – including subsequent environmentally friendly reconditioning – can be easily placed online by scanning the QR code on the IBC label. Thus, even the smallest Schütz IBC contributes to the company's sustainable overall concept.