Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are common chemical containers used in a variety of industries. Also known as "cage tanks", IBCs are available in several sizes, though one of the most common is the 275-gallon cage tank. The availability and chemical compatibility of these 275-gallon cage tanks make them an obvious low-cost option for several small-scale chemical-handling applications.
If you are looking at using one an IBC to store or transfer chemicals, you'll first need details on the tank's dimensions, lid size, and how to connect to the tank. Understanding these specifications is crucial for ensuring the compatibility and safety of your chemical storage and transfer operations. This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of these common 275-gallon cage tanks.
275 Gallon Cage Tank Dimensions
Standard dimensions of a 275-gallon tote:
- Height: 46 inches
- Width: 48 inches
- Depth: 40 inches
These dimensions can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and the specific design of the tote, but they generally fall within these measurements.
IBC Cage Tank Features
IBC cage tanks have a metal cage that encases a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic tank. The cage is required, as it protects the tank from any equipment that may bump into it and helps maintain the integrity of the tank walls while filled.
When empty, you can stack these tanks on top of one another, although it is not advised to stack more than three. Even with a cage, IBC totes are not strong enough to stack when they have liquid inside. The base of the tank, a galvanized pallet integrated in the cage frame, is designed to be moved using standard pallet jacks and forklifts.
Empty Weight of 275 Gallon IBC/Cage Tank
Depending on the manufacturer these 275-gallon cage tanks can weigh between150-170 lbs. pounds when empty. The weight varies slightly due to small variations in the cage design, type of outlet valve, and number of lids/vents on the top of the tank.
Rated Weight per Gallon
IBC shuttles have a 1.9 S.G. rating. This means they are rated for liquids that weigh up to about 15 pounds per gallon. For reference, water is 8.345 lbs./gal.
IBC Tank Lids
The 275-gallon IBC tanks sold at Dultmeier Sales feature one six-inch lid positioned on the top center of the tank. The lid features a vent in the center. The vent is essential to prevent the collapse of the tank when using a pump to withdraw liquid. There are many different lid variations that can accommodate different types of pipe thread or Micro Matic valves.
There are several types of lids options. They feature single ports, multiple ports, vents, etc.:
There is also a wide range of cage tank accessories to accommodate different applications:
- NPT Adapters
- Buttress Adapters
- RPV Valves for Micro Matic Couplers
You can view more IBC tote accessories here.
Tamper Evident
The lid, vent, and the outlet valve also feature spots for tamper evident seals to be installed.These seals lock the lid in place and ensure that a the liquid contents are not tampered with or compromised during use or transport from place to place. The tank lid cannot be opened without the wire seal being broken.
How to connect to a 275 Gallon Cage Tank
The outlet at the bottom of the standard IBC cage tank is generally a 2-inch valve. The valve will typically feature a built-in check valve that allows liquid to flow out of the tank but will not allow anything to be pumped into it. This tank outlet will often feature a 2-inch male cam-lock adapter, and the end of this adapter is threaded for a dust cap. It is advised that this thread not be used to attach any accessories/pumps, use only for the dust cap.
If you need to connect a hose to a standard IBC cage tank you just need a 2-inch female cam-lock coupler. This could be a part C, part B, or part D coupling. If you are not familiar with the different cam-lock coupler types, you can see a complete explanation in this guide to cam-lock couplers.
Common Uses for 275 Gallon IBC/Cage Tanks
The uses for IBC containers are many and varied. Some of the most common liquids and applications include, but are not limited to:
- Water Collection
- Agricultural Chemicals & Fertilizer
- DEF
- Waste oil
- Brine
- Cleaning products
- Aquaponics and Hydroponics
- Industrial Processes
- Brewing and Winemaking
- Construction
Dultmeier Sales keeps 275-Gallon IBC Tanks on hand with all the accessories you might need, including pumps for handling a wide variety of different liquids. Contact our sales team for more information, availability, and freight estimates on 275 Gallon IBC Cage Tanks.
