Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBC) are commonly used in a variety of industries to transport and store bulk materials. These bags are designed to withstand the rigours of handling and transportation, but manufacturing defects can compromise their integrity, leading to leaks, spills, or even structural failures. To ensure that FIBC bags meet their intended specifications, manufacturers need to perform rigorous testing using specialized equipment such as FIBC test rig machines.

In this blog post, we will explore how FIBC test rig machines can help identify and address common manufacturing issues, and why they are essential for quality control in the FIBC industry.

What are FIBC test rig machines?

FIBC test rig machines are designed to simulate the conditions that FIBC bags are likely to encounter during handling, transportation, and storage. They use hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders to apply different types of loads to the bags, such as lifting, stacking, dropping, or tilting. By subjecting the bags to these stresses, manufacturers can evaluate their strength, durability, and resistance to damage.

FIBC test rig machines can also measure other properties of the bags, such as their volume, weight, and surface friction. They can detect defects such as punctures, tears, or seam failures, as well as identify areas of stress concentration or weakness. By using different test methods and protocols, manufacturers can customize their testing procedures to match their specific needs and requirements.

The testing equipment is suitable for verifying compliance with various global standards, including DIN EN 1898, EFIBCA STANDARDS 03/04/05, the latest European and ISO standards, UN specifications, as well as French Standards FN H34-012 and British Standards BS 6382.

Features of FIBC Test Rig Machines

• The machine is built with a heavy-duty, robust frame that ensures vibration-free running.
• It requires less manpower and space for operation, making it efficient and space-saving.
• The bag testing process adheres to international standards, ensuring quality and consistency.
• The system is user-friendly and easy to operate, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
• The machine is equipped with SCADA software that supports MS Office and can display online testing.
• For operator and machine safety, it is equipped with overload protection and an emergency stop mechanism.
• The hydraulic power pack is compact, energy-efficient, and powerful, ensuring consistent and reliable performance.
• Only premium-quality hydraulic components are used in the machine, ensuring durability and longevity.
• Accurate load cell technology is used with four sensors for precise readings, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
• The hydraulic height adjustment mechanism is precise and dependable, ensuring consistent and accurate testing.
• Material loading is achieved by a powerful vacuum conveying system, ensuring efficient and reliable loading.

Factors To Keep In Mind

FIBC bags can suffer from various defects during manufacturing, which can affect their performance and safety. Let's draw attention to some of the most prevalent mistakes made with FIBCs so that you can avoid them.



• Selecting the Wrong Size: These bags are available in various shapes and sizes to suit different packaging needs. Choosing the wrong size can lead to inefficiencies in loading and unloading, causing problems for both workers and customers. The size of the bag required depends on the product's weight and density. For example, a customer filling metal balls will need a smaller bag than someone filling pigments, chemicals, or sand.
• Quality and Quantity: Consider quality and quantity when buying bulk bags to avoid unnecessary expenses. Finding the right balance is crucial. Buying in bulk can reduce costs, but only if the bags will be used in the future. Use the appropriate quality bulk bags for storing specific products, such as chemicals or food.
• Reusing FIBC Bags for Wrong Products: Reusing FIBC Bags for the Wrong Items can cause contamination risks due to residuals. Bulk bags used for transporting items like sugar, salt, pet food, or pharmaceuticals shouldn't be reused. Safety Factor (SF) should be checked before reusing bulk bags.

How Can FIBC Test Rig Machines Help?

FIBC test rig machines are invaluable tools for identifying and addressing common manufacturing issues in FIBC bags. By using these machines, manufacturers can:

• Verify the strength and durability of FIBC bags under various loading conditions
• Evaluate the effectiveness of different closure systems, spouts, and liners
• Test the resistance of FIBC bags to puncture, tear, or abrasion
• Determine the flowability and discharge performance of FIBC bags for different types of materials
• Assess the suitability of FIBC bags for specific applications or industries
• Monitor the quality and consistency of FIBC bags over time

By using FIBC test rig machines, manufacturers can improve their production processes, reduce waste and rework, and enhance customer satisfaction. Armstrong FIBC Jumbo Bag Testing Machine can help perform various tests for example; Burst Testing, Hold Testing, Cycle Testing, and Peak Testing to overcome manufacturing challenges.