The danger posed by static electricity when filling or discharging material from Type C Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs) is controlled by a system expressly designed for these applications. The Earth-Rite FIBC grounding system from Newson Gale Inc. constantly monitors Type C containers, (often known as SuperSacks) ensuring that the containers’ anti-static features are, in fact, within the correct specificaions and achieving a positive ground connection.

While Type C containers feature a conductive construction to deal with static build-up they do not provide positive assurance that build-up will not occur since external factors might also be involved. For example, the grounding clamp may not be attached properly or the conductive fibers of the bag damaged in prior use. And it is also possible that the FIBC itself may not be appropriate for the application at hand.

The Earth-Rite FIBC system provides verification that the bag’s anti-static construction is functional and that it is, in fact, correctly grounded. The interlock design will allow product transfer only when the resistance through the container is less than 1x10 8 Ohms. While Type C FIBC applications are most common, the system can also be used to monitor similar static dissipative materials such as drum linings, kegs, hoses, etc.

Should unacceptable readings be registered an alarm signal LED is lighted and the system remains inoperable, ensuring that safe operating procedures are followed. Readings are taken through a special insulated monitoring clamp attached to the conductive ground loop of the FIBC. To suit various types of filling/discharging machinery the system is offered in two formats: one which monitors resistance between the grounded lifting loops and a clamp attached to ground, and another monitoring resistance between two separate clamps with respect to ground. Since the Earth-Rite FIBC system is ATEX approved
intrinsically safe it is suitable for use in virtually all potentially explosive atmosphere zones. The monitoring unit is EX rated II 1 GD EEx ia IICT4 and the power supply II (1) GD [EExia] IIC, with FM pending.

The Earth-Rite FIBC static grounding system is just part of the Cenelectrex® range of static grounding and bonding equipment available from Newson Gale Inc., the Lakewood, NJ based specialists in static control for hazardous areas.

For additional information, contact: Newson Gale Inc., 1072 Madison Ave., Lakewood, NJ 08701.
Phone: 732-987-7715. E-Mail: info@newson-gale.com. Website: www.newson-gale.com