Super Sack Dimensions: Essential Guide for Bulk Storage

11 min read

Super sacks are an essential component in many industries for their versatile and efficient bulk storage capabilities. These bags are not only economical, but they also provide a convenient way to transport and store a wide range of materials. Understanding Super Sack Dimensions is crucial to selecting the right size for your needs, ensuring you avoid overloading or underutilizing the bag.

Bulk bags come in various sizes, with heights ranging from 35 to 80 inches, widths from 35 to 48 inches, and base dimensions designed to fit on top of a pallet. As the bags fill with material, their shapes can shift from rectangular to more cylindrical, affecting how they take up space. It's critical to consider the filled dimensions when choosing a super sack for your operations.

Key Takeaways

  • Super sacks offer versatile and efficient bulk storage solutions across various industries.
  • Dimensions are crucial in selecting the right super sack size to maximize space usage and avoid overloading.
  • Filled super sacks can change shape, so filled dimensions must be considered during selection.
Super Sack Dimensions

Understanding Super Sack Dimensions

Size and Capacity

Super Sacks, or Bulk Bags, are versatile storage and transportation containers used in various industries. The dimensions of a Super Sack are crucial considerations in determining its volume and usability. The term Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBC) refers to these bags, and understanding their capacity helps ensure efficient loading and optimal use. When selecting your Super Sack, take note of its dimensions: width, height, and length.

Width, Height, and Length

The width and length of a Super Sack typically refer to the size of its base, which is designed to fit on top of a pallet. The height of the bag affects its total volume and storage capacity. To calculate the diameter of a bulk bag, use the provided side panel width, multiply by the number of panels, and divide by π:

Diameter = (Width * Number of Panels) / π (or 3.1416)

Common Sizes and Variants

The size of Super Sacks can vary depending on the manufacturer. Here are some common size variants:

  • 35 x 35 x 35: With a relatively smaller base, this variant is suitable for smaller operations.
  • 41 x 41 x 47: With a larger base and height, this variant provides added capacity.
  • 45 x 45 x 50: This is one of the biggest Super Sack variants, providing even greater capacity for storing and transporting materials.

Remember that bulk bags can range from 35 to 80 inches in height and 35-48 inches in width, so you may find many other size variations. Choose the Super Sack dimensions that best suit your needs, materials, and customer requirements.

Super Sack Materials and Construction

Woven Polypropylene Fabric

Super Sacks are made from woven polypropylene fabric, a durable and lightweight material. Woven polypropylene is known for its strength and sturdiness, making it ideal for material handling and various industrial applications. The fabric is created by interlacing strands of oriented polypropylene, which provides additional tear resistance and allows the sack to maintain its shape under heavy loads.

Types of Construction

Super Sacks come in two main types of construction: coated and uncoated. Coated sacks have a layer of clear poly coating on the fabric, which offers additional protection against moisture, contamination, and leakage. Uncoated sacks are more breathable, allowing air to circulate within the bag. This makes uncoated sacks ideal for certain food-grade containers and specific handling purposes where ventilation is important.

Baffle and Liner Options

Baffle design is an important feature in some Super Sacks. Baffles are internal fabric reinforcements that create structural compartments within the bag, helping it to maintain its shape and prevent bulging. Baffles also improve the sack's stability during transportation by distributing the weight evenly. This design improves safety and allows for efficient stacking during storage and transit.

Liners can be added to Super Sacks for enhanced protection and cleanliness. Liners made of various materials, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, can be inserted inside the sack to create a barrier between the product and the woven fabric. This barrier helps prevent contamination and keeps the product safe, making liners a popular option for food-grade Super Sacks or bags that carry sensitive materials.

Applications and Industries

Agriculture and Food

Bulk bags, including Super Sack containers, are widely used in the agriculture and food industries for the storage and transportation of various products, such as grain, chia seeds, animal feed, and fertilizer. Their large size and durability make them ideal for handling large quantities of feed or grains, keeping them safe from contamination and potential damage. Super Sacks are also commonly used for transporting and storing various food products, like flour and nuts. Flexible materials and the ability to stack them on pallets make these bags efficient and cost-effective for agricultural businesses.

Mining and Construction

The mining and construction industries also benefit from the use of Super Sack containers, which can hold and transport a wide range of materials. Sand, gravel, and other construction materials can be easily stored in bulk bags, making transportation and storage more efficient. The bags' rugged construction and flexible design help protect the contents from damage during handling and transportation. Additionally, the stackability of these containers makes them perfect for space-saving measures in construction sites or storage facilities.

Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals

The chemical and pharmaceutical industries often require the transport and storage of powders and granulated products in large quantities. Super Sacks, with their moisture-resistant and sift-proof materials, provide an ideal solution for these needs. Their sturdy design and construction make them suitable for handling a diverse range of chemicals, pharmaceutical ingredients, and other sensitive materials. The bags' fabric can be specially treated or coated to resist contamination and ensure the contents' safety, making them a reliable option for both industries.

Using and Storing Super Sacks

Filling and Discharging

Filling super sacks involves adding dry or flowable materials such as sand, gravel, chemicals, or food products into the bag. They can hold anywhere from 500 to 4000 pounds of material and are made of woven polypropylene fabric which is durable and moisture resistant. When it comes to discharging, most super sacks have a discharge spout at the bottom that can be opened to release the stored materials easily and efficiently.

Transportation and Shipping

Super sacks offer several advantages in the supply chain due to their flexible nature and low weight. Their square bases are designed to fit on top of pallets, making them compatible with standard shipping pallets. When full, the bags typically take on a cylindrical shape that allows for efficient packing during transportation. Lift loops on top of the bags facilitate easy handling and maneuvering using forklifts or cranes. Super sacks also meet UN certified requirements, which enhances their compatibility with various shipping standards.

Storage Options and Space Saving

Proper storage of super sacks is crucial to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. When not in use, it's essential to keep the sacks in a clean, dry environment to prevent moisture or contamination from affecting the bags and their contents. When filled, it's possible to stack super sacks on top of one another to save on storage space. However, this may not always be recommended depending on the material being stored, so always ensure proper stacking guidelines are followed to maintain the bags' integrity and safety.

Handling super sacks with care during storage, transportation, and usage ensures a smooth process in managing inventory and maintaining supply chain efficiency. The versatility of super sacks makes them a popular choice across various industries for both storing and transporting materials.

Selecting the Right Super Sack

Factors to Consider

When choosing a super sack for your needs, it's essential to consider factors such as size, material, and design. Bulk bags, also known as Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBC) or super sacks, come in a variety of sizes. Common dimensions include 35 x 35 x 35, 41 x 41 x 47, and 45 x 45 x 50. Be sure to choose the right size for your application to avoid overloading or underutilizing the bag.

Different materials and construction styles also play a role in selecting the correct super sack. Super sacks can be made for specific industries such as food-grade, resins, or carbon black. As for design, the most common types are circular, U-panel, and four-panel bags, which offer varying levels of stability and durability.

Cost and Availability

In addition to dimensional and design factors, it's crucial to evaluate the cost and availability of your chosen super sack. Bulk bags are generally inexpensive and durable, making them a cost-effective choice for transporting and storing materials.

Types of Super Sacks:

  • U-panel
  • Four-panel
  • Circular
  • Food grade

Types and Styles

The functionality of a super sack can be significantly impacted by its design. Here are some common types and styles of super sacks:

  • U-panel: This design consists of two side panels and two U-shaped panels sewn together, offering a better weight distribution.
  • Four-panel: These bags have four individual panels sewn together for increased stability.
  • Circular: Circular bulk bags are constructed from a single piece of fabric, resulting in a seamless construction that minimizes leakage and breakage.
  • Food grade: These bags are designed to transport food products and meet specific safety regulations required by the food industry.

Along with design styles, super sacks offer a variety of features to suit your needs:

  • Duffle top: These bags come with a duffle for easy filling and closing.
  • Lift loop: Integrated loops allow for easy transportation using machinery like forklifts.
  • Filter/DeWatering: Ideal for filtering and separating solid and liquid materials, these bags are great for washing or collecting products while allowing the liquid to drain.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select the right super sack to handle your specific requirements for materials such as scrap, debris, and other industrial goods.

Super Sack Safety and Guidelines

Handling Best Practices

When handling Super Sacks, it's crucial to follow safety guidelines and adhere to best practices to ensure proper usage and avoid accidents:

  • Always check the Bag Tag that is required to be attached to all bulk bags. This tag provides essential information like capacity (weight rating) and handling guidelines.
  • Choose the right size of the Super Sack for your needs to avoid overloading or underutilizing it.
  • Utilize lift loops for safe and proper handling during transportation. Make sure to use appropriate lifting equipment and never carry the bags by hand.
  • Store and transport Super Sacks on pallets to make it easier to move and stack them. Most bags come with a square base that's designed to fit on top of a pallet.
  • Use bags made of woven polypropylene fabric that provide durability and resistance against tearing. Additionally, opt for baffled bags to maintain a square shape and improve stability.

Certifications and Regulations

In the bulk bag industry, it's important to comply with certifications and regulations to ensure the safety and quality of the bags:

  • Follow the guidelines established by regulatory bodies in your region to ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • Work with manufacturers who adhere to strict quality control measures and can provide proper certifications for their products.
  • Make sure that the bags you use are appropriate for your industry and can safely handle specific flowable products, such as chemicals, food, or construction materials.

By following the above safety guidelines and being mindful of relevant certifications and regulations, you can effectively utilize Super Sacks in your operations while minimizing risks.

If you would like to partner with Gilbert International, please feel free to request a quote!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical size of a super sack?

Super sacks come in various sizes, but a common size has a height ranging from 35 to 80 inches and a width of 35-48 inches. They have a square base designed to fit on top of a pallet, and as they are filled with materials, they tend to assume more of a cylindrical shape.

How much weight can a super sack hold?

The weight capacity of a super sack varies depending on the specific bag and its construction. Generally, they can hold anywhere from 500 to 4,000 pounds of material. It is crucial to verify the weight capacity of a particular super sack before using it to prevent overloading and potential safety hazards.

What volume does a super sack carry?

The volume capacity of a super sack depends on its size and shape. Common volume capacities range from 10 to 100 cubic feet. To determine the volume of a specific super sack, always check with the manufacturer or refer to the product specifications.

Are there various super sack sizes?

Yes, there are different sizes of super sacks available. Their dimensions can vary based on height, width, and base size, allowing users to choose the most suitable sack for the material they need to transport or store.

How much soil fits in a super sack?

The amount of soil that fits in a super sack will depend on the sack's dimensions and the density of the soil. For instance, a super sack with a volume capacity of 27 cubic feet could hold approximately one cubic yard of soil, which typically weighs around 2,000 pounds.

Which dimensions suit a 50 kg rice sack?

The dimensions suitable for a 50 kg rice sack may vary, depending on the density of the rice and the desired bag shape. As a rough estimate, a 50 kg rice sack could be around 30 x 20 x 20 inches (height, length, and width). It is essential to confirm the specific dimensions with the sack manufacturer or vendor to ensure the container meets the required criteria.