Schütz Ecobulk SX-D: Double safety for flammable hazardous materials

The Ecobulk SX-D with a 1000L filling volume can be used in EX Zones 1 + 2 and is also suitable for particularly sensitive areas where fire and leak protection as well as risk minimization are of the highest priority. (Photo: Schütz)

The transportation and storage of flammable hazardous liquids are among the biggest challenges in packaging management. To provide maximum protection even under extreme conditions and in border areas, Schutz has developed the Ecobulk SX-D. The container model features a sealed, fire-resistant outer shell made of steel. The Ecobulk SX-D was awarded the 'FM Approved' label by the industry property insurer FM Global, making it the first combination IBC ever to receive this certification after a demanding fire test and a comprehensive audit of Schutz's production facilities.

Schutz engineers continuously work on new solutions to optimize the IBC for more targeted use with demanding fill materials and applications. An example of this is the SX-D, which offers increased protection in the event of a fire: The fully sealed outer shell made of steel is riveted and welded to the steel bottom tray. This construction practically forms an additional liquid-tight container and serves as an integrated sump in case the HDPE inner container is damaged. If the inner plastic container melts due to heat from a fire, the outer steel shell effectively prevents the product from leaking out. This allows sensitive and flammable fill materials, which previously were often stored in smaller containers with low volume such as steel drums or stainless steel containers, to be safely filled into this IBC model.

The Ecobulk SX-D with a 1000L filling volume can be used in EX Zones 1 + 2 and is also suitable for particularly sensitive areas where fire and leak protection as well as risk minimization are top priorities. The IBC is approved for densities up to a maximum of 1.9 g/cm³. The safety of the packaging has been confirmed by independent institutions: In addition to the 'FM Approved' label, the ECOBULK SX-D also bears the 'UL listed' certification according to UL Test 2368 by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. This is an internationally recognized procedure through which the American organization certifies products regarding their safety and fire resistance. After successful testing, the IBC also complies with the fire protection guideline 'NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code' of the National Fire Protection Association in the USA and is approved for filling products with a flash point of ≥ 37.8°C / 100°F.

Integrated Schutz Dip Tube Discharge System

The fill material is discharged via a pump connection through the Schutz Dip Tube system, which is integrated into the front of the two nozzles on the container top. This position ensures that the discharge pipe reaches the lowest point of the inner container, guaranteeing excellent residual emptying. The sealed discharge system also offers the advantage that there is no contact with the fill product — not even in the form of possible vapors escaping. The steel caps, which protect both the nozzles and the filling opening of the IBC during transport and storage, can be quickly and tool-free removed and reattached using a bayonet lock.

Many Application Possibilities

The double-walled design and the sealed discharge system make the SX-D Schutz's recommended choice for all fill materials and applications with special safety requirements. Therefore, the container is also suitable for demanding hazardous materials of Class 6.1, such as toluene diisocyanate (TDI). In addition to meeting the highest fire protection standards, the Schutz IBC can also serve to reduce overall risk — for example, when used directly on the production line. This capability has also been confirmed by the industry property insurer FM Global.

In addition to the Ecobulk SX-D, Schutz presents a prototype of a new product version that additionally features an access point integrated into the outer shell for a valve, enabling popular bottom discharge in the market.