Schütz Ecobulk SX-D guarantees maximum safety thanks to double-walled construction

The Ecobulk SX-D from Schütz ensures the safe transportation of demanding filling goods even under extreme conditions. (Photo: SCHÜTZ)

The steel shell of the Ecobulk SX-D was completely closed, riveted and welded to the steel bottom tray. It functions as an additional container, liquid-tight. (Photo: SCHÜTZ)

For maximum protection against leakage even under extreme conditions, the packaging experts at Schütz have developed the Ecobulk SX-D. To further enhance safety standards, the container model features a sealed, fire-resistant outer shell made of steel. The filling opening and the discharge points are protected by steel caps, which can now be easily opened and closed without tools using bayonet locks. As the first combination IBC ever, the SX-D has been awarded the "FM Approved" label by the industrial property insurance company FM Global.

In many industrial and operational sectors, the IBC has become the preferred packaging solution. To optimize its use for demanding filling products and applications, Schütz engineers continuously work on new solutions. A prime example is the SX-D. Although the new container's steel shell initially resembles long-established Schütz solutions for use in explosion-proof zones, the SX-D offers a significant level of additional safety: The steel shell is completely sealed, riveted, and welded to the steel bottom tray. The sturdy outer shell thus forms an additional liquid-tight container, which practically functions as an integrated spill tray in case of damage to the HDPE inner container. If the inner plastic container melts due to heat from a fire, product leakage is effectively prevented by the outer steel shell. This allows sensitive filling goods, which were previously often stored in smaller containers with lower volumes, such as steel drums, to be filled into this IBC model without issues.

The construction of the SX-D provides increased protection in the event of a fire, making this IBC suitable for storing flammable substances in accordance with the NFPA-30 code. Its packaging safety has been confirmed by independent institutions: The SX-D has been tested and certified by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. and is the only combination IBC so far to be certified by the US insurance company FM Global Group. The "FM Approved" designation requires passing a particularly demanding fire test and a comprehensive production audit.

Integrated Schütz Dip-Tube Discharge System

To ensure double protection, the SX-D does not feature the traditional outlet valve on the front of the container. Instead, the filling material is discharged via a pump connection through the Schütz Dip-Tube, which is integrated into the front of the two discharge openings on the container top. This position allows the discharge pipe to reach the lowest point of the inner container, ensuring excellent residual emptying. The sealed discharge system also offers the additional advantage that there is no contact with the filling product — not even in the form of any vapors escaping. The steel caps, which protect both the discharge points and the filling opening during transport and storage, can be quickly removed and reattached without tools using bayonet locks.

New Application Possibilities

The double-walled design and the sealed discharge system make the SX-D Schütz's recommendation for all filling materials and uses with special safety requirements. Therefore, the container is also suitable for demanding hazardous substances of class 6.1, such as toluene diisocyanate (TDI). In addition to meeting the highest fire safety standards, the new Schütz IBC can also serve to reduce overall risk — for example, when used directly on the production line.