EP0625951B1 - Bulk material container - Google Patents

Bulk material container Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0625951B1
EP0625951B1 EP94903804A EP94903804A EP0625951B1 EP 0625951 B1 EP0625951 B1 EP 0625951B1 EP 94903804 A EP94903804 A EP 94903804A EP 94903804 A EP94903804 A EP 94903804A EP 0625951 B1 EP0625951 B1 EP 0625951B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
bulk container
indicator
fabric
indicator element
woven fabric
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EP94903804A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0625951A1 (en
Inventor
Egon Wurr
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Eurea Verpackungs GmbH and Co KG
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Eurea Verpackungs GmbH and Co KG
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D88/00—Large containers
    • B65D88/16—Large containers flexible
    • B65D88/1612—Flexible intermediate bulk containers [FIBC]
    • B65D88/165—Flexible intermediate bulk containers [FIBC] with electrically conductive properties

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a bulk container, in particular a flexible bulk container (FIBC), which is essentially made from a fabric of high-strength plastic threads or tapes (see e.g. DE-A-3 204 758).
  • FIBC flexible bulk container
  • Bulk goods containers of the type described are used for a wide variety of bulk goods. For example, they are made from polypropylene ribbon fabric. Other olefins or mixed olefin polymers are also used.
  • Polyolefins are susceptible to the UV component of sunlight.
  • the plastic changes due to the sun's UV radiation; the fabric gradually loses strength and can tear under normal use. If such a bulk container with a reduced strength is lifted, the tissue tears and the container empties. It has also happened that the loops come loose from the fabric and the bulk container falls from the lifting device. If such damage occurs, it is often very difficult to determine whether the damage was caused by overloading or material degradation due to UV radiation. The question of whether the damage is only caused by UV radiation remains open was influenced or whether chemical reactions of the bulk material have caused a change in the tissue.
  • the invention has for its object to make a load of the type mentioned its stress by light, in particular UV radiation, easy and safe to determine, so as to make the most accurate statement as to what amount of radiation has acted.
  • the global radiation encompasses the wavelength range from approximately 290-1400 nm, the proportion of long-wave radiation in the IR region (780-1400 nm) is approximately 53%, the visible region (400-780 nm) provides approximately 43% and the UV component (290 - 400 nm) only about 4 - 6% of the total global radiation.
  • the radiation energy is measured using a pyrheliometer. The energy is given in joules. In practice, however, the Langley unit is still widely used, particularly in Kilo-Langley.
  • 1 kilo-Langley - kLy - corresponds to solar radiation of 1 kCal / cm 2 .
  • the intensity is generally given in kLy per year.
  • Weather maps show that e.g. B. In Central Europe there is sunshine of about 1000 kLy per year. In areas of America and Africa, over 220 kLy are measured annually.
  • the bulk container carries at least one indicator element at a point which is exposed to the sun, and that the indicator element experiences reproducibly visible or measurable property changes in accordance with the solar radiation acting on the tissue.
  • the indicator element can be a fabric, a film, a nonwoven or a layer which, in the case of defined solar radiation, has at least one of its physical properties, e.g. B. changes its strength or color, measurable and reproducible.
  • small flags made of polyethylene with white pigment e.g. B. TiO 2 and used as an indicator element.
  • the service life of such indicator elements can be determined empirically by laboratory tests, so that after a certain time of irradiation, simple strain measurements can be used to determine what stability the indicator element still has after a certain time of use.
  • the indicator elements used can therefore provide information about the intensity of radiation which has already acted on the bag, so that a decision can be made immediately on the spot for the further usability or the further use of the bulk goods container.
  • indicator elements into the tissue, with particular reference being made to indicator elements that become characteristic over time discolor.
  • Dyes are known which cause discoloration or discoloration due to solar radiation and can therefore also be used as cumulative measurement indicators.
  • the fabric yarn of the bulk goods container is usually equipped with suitable UV stabilizers or UV absorbers, which are used as light stabilizers both to improve the light resistance and as sun protection agents.
  • suitable UV stabilizers or UV absorbers which are used as light stabilizers both to improve the light resistance and as sun protection agents.
  • chemotechnical options here cf. article UV absorber in R ⁇ MPP, chemical lexicon), some of which are also used in mixed form and in many cases are manufacturing secrets.
  • a color indicator can e.g. B. be partially introduced in a white tissue.
  • the amount of accumulated solar radiation can be determined with a used FIBC if an indicator is available.
  • indicator elements that are combined with characteristic threads to provide a certain stability To indicate solar radiation, for example 50 kLy yellow tracer 75 kLy green tracer 100 kLy red tracer 150 kLy black tracer.
  • a woven-in indicator thread or a corresponding ribbon has the advantage that it cannot be subsequently shot into a tissue, so that an existing indicator element indicates the condition of the tissue.
  • the points are equipped with an indicator that are both most exposed to the sun's rays and can be subjected to the greatest loads. This gives you a statement that is of the greatest importance for practical use.
  • the indicator element indicates that a certain residual strength of the original strength is still present in the fabric, in the carrying straps or in the sewing thread after a certain amount of sunlight.
  • the fabric is made of plastic threads as polyolefins, since these plastics enable an inexpensive and relatively inexpensive fabric.
  • the plastic threads can also be electrical conductive threads are woven. This safely discharges charges when filling, transporting and emptying the bulk container.
  • These conductive threads advantageously consist of polypropylene in the basic substance and can be produced, for example, according to EP 298 767 A3. Because both the non-conductive and the conductive threads of the fabric are made of the same basic substance, the indicator element essentially indicates the condition of the entire fabric used.
  • an indicator for the detection of UV-B radiation is known (DE 92 05 575 U1). It consists of a receptor made of phototropic material and a filter that is selectively transparent to electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of 280 nm to 315 nm and above about 500 nm. The filter is placed over the material.
  • this indicator embodiment cannot be used for the purpose at hand.
  • a bulk container 1 a so-called FIBC, is shown. It consists of a carrying bag 5, which is provided with lifting loops 7 and 7 'at the top. In its lid area 10, the carrier bag 5 has a filler neck 8, in its bottom area 11 an outlet 9.
  • the carrier bag is made from a fabric 2 made of high-strength plastic threads 3, in which electrically conductive threads 3 'are woven in.
  • the fabric is interspersed with a grid of intersecting, electrically conductive threads, via which, with appropriate grounding, the static electricity generated when using the bulk material containers, primarily when filling or emptying, can be dissipated.
  • This bulk goods container 1 is exposed to the sun's radiation, which is measured in kLy.
  • the threads of the fabric 2 are usually equipped with suitable UV stabilizers. This results in a UV resistance of 150 kLy until the strength has dropped to 50% of the original value.
  • the outlet nozzle 9, the inlet nozzle 8 and the lid area 10 a UV resistance of 80 kLy is common and required.
  • indicator elements 4, 4 'or 4 are attached to important informative points on the bulk goods container.
  • An indicator element 4 is preferably attached in the collar area. It is also possible to use indicator elements 4 ', 4 "in the lid area or on the lifting loops 7 and 7' and on the side surfaces 12 and 12 '.
  • the indicator elements 4, 4 'and 4 can be designed as color change indicators or as flags sewn on both ends, which can easily be cut for examination.
  • color indicator elements in the form of ribbons or threads can also be woven into the container fabric, whereby they are easily recognizable within an otherwise white fabric (reference number 40).
  • the fabric 2 itself as can be seen in particular from FIG. 2, consists of UV-resistant plastic threads 3, into which conductive (dark) threads 3 'are woven at certain intervals.
  • Indicator elements 40 in the form of colored threads can also be seen.
  • the indicator elements 4, 4 'and 4 "or 40 can provide information about the solar radiation that has occurred through a change or color reaction, since at least one of their physical properties, for example their strength or color, has changed in a measurable and reproducible manner .
  • FIBC "second hand" FIBC cannot be seen which UV radiation has affected it.
  • the user and buyer of the container should be informed in good time when replacement of the container is necessary.
  • the indicator ensures that not only the pure time factor plays a role, but also the radiation as the main element that causes aging. Therefore, a container can usually be used longer than before because it is not taken out of service prematurely for safety reasons.
  • improper filling conditions for example with non-approved filling goods in the event of damage, can be attributed to the behavior of the transporter, since the indicator elements indicate that solar radiation which has caused damage has not hitherto been observed.

Abstract

A bulk material container, in particular a flexible bulk container (FIBC) essentially consists of a fabric made of high-resistance plastic threads or strips. In order to determine the stress due to solar radiation, the bulk material container bears at least one indicator element (4; 4") at a spot (6; 7; 7') exposed to the sun. The indicator element senses reproducibly visible or measurable property changes depending on the solar radiation acting on the fabric. In particular, the indicator elements (4") consist of plastic foil strips which may be cut off for testing transport containers.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft einen Schüttgutbehälter, insbesondere einen flexiblen Bulkcontainer (FIBC), der im wesentlichen aus einem Gewebe von hochfesten Kunststofffäden oder -bändchen hergestellt ist (siehe z.B. DE-A-3 204 758).The invention relates to a bulk container, in particular a flexible bulk container (FIBC), which is essentially made from a fabric of high-strength plastic threads or tapes (see e.g. DE-A-3 204 758).

Schüttgutbehälter der beschriebenen Art kommen für die unterschiedlichsten Schüttgüter zum Einsatz. Sie werden beispielsweise aus Polypropylen-Bändchen-Gewebe hergestellt. Andere Olefine oder Mischolefin-Polymere sind ebenfalls im Einsatz.Bulk goods containers of the type described are used for a wide variety of bulk goods. For example, they are made from polypropylene ribbon fabric. Other olefins or mixed olefin polymers are also used.

Polyolefine, insbesondere Polypropylen, ist aber anfällig gegenüber dem UV-Anteil des Sonnenlichtes. Durch die UV-sonneneinstrahlung verändert sich der Kunststoff; das Gewebe verliert nach und nach an Festigkeit und kann bei normaler Beanspruchung reißen. Wird ein solcher, in seiner Festigkeit geminderter Schüttgutbehälter angehoben, so reißt das Gewebe und der Behälter entleert sich. Es ist auch schon vorkommen, daß sich die Halteschlaufen aus dem Gewebe lösen und der Schüttgutbehälter von der Hebevorrichtung herabfällt. Tritt ein solcher Schaden auf, so ist es oftmals sehr schwierig, festzustellen, ob der Schaden durch Überlastung oder durch Materialabbau aufgrund von UV-Einstrahlung geschehen ist. Offen bleibt auch die Frage, ob der Schaden nur durch UV-Strahlung beeinflußt wurde oder aber ob chemische Reaktionen des Schüttgutes eine Veränderung des Gewebes hervorgerufen haben.Polyolefins, especially polypropylene, are susceptible to the UV component of sunlight. The plastic changes due to the sun's UV radiation; the fabric gradually loses strength and can tear under normal use. If such a bulk container with a reduced strength is lifted, the tissue tears and the container empties. It has also happened that the loops come loose from the fabric and the bulk container falls from the lifting device. If such damage occurs, it is often very difficult to determine whether the damage was caused by overloading or material degradation due to UV radiation. The question of whether the damage is only caused by UV radiation remains open was influenced or whether chemical reactions of the bulk material have caused a change in the tissue.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, bei einem Schüttgutbehälter der eingangs genannten Art dessen Beanspruchung durch Lichteinfluß, insbesondere UV-Strahlung, einfach und sicher feststellbar zu machen, um so eine möglichst genaue Aussage darüber zu treffen, welche Menge an Strahlung eingewirkt hat.The invention has for its object to make a load of the type mentioned its stress by light, in particular UV radiation, easy and safe to determine, so as to make the most accurate statement as to what amount of radiation has acted.

Bei der physikalischen Messung in Bezug auf die Untersuchung und den Gebrauch von Polyolefin-Geweben hat nur die auf die Erdoberfläche auftreffende sogenannte Globalstrahlung eine praktische Bedeutung. Es handelt sich um die Summe der direkten Sonnenstrahlung und der durch die Komponenten der Erdatmosphäre gestreuten Himmelsstrahlung. Die Globalstrahlung umfaßt den Wellenlängenbereich von etwa 290 - 1400 nm, der Anteil der langwelligen Strahlung im IR-Bereich (780 - 1400 nm) beträgt etwa 53 %, das sichtbare Gebiet (400 - 780 nm) liefert etwa 43 % und der UV-Anteil (290 - 400 nm) nur etwa 4 - 6 % der gesamten Globalstrahlung. Die Messung der Strahlungsenergie wird mit einem Pyrheliometer durchgeführt. Die Energie wird in Joule angegeben. In der Praxis wird jedoch nach wie vor allgemein die Langley-Einheit verwendet, und zwar insbesondere in Kilo-Langley. 1 Kilo-Langley - kLy - entspricht der Sonneneinstrahlung von 1 kCal/cm2. Die Intensität wird im allgemeinen in kLy pro Jahr angegeben. Wetterkarten zeigen, daß z. B. in Mitteleuropa eine Sonneneinstrahlung von etwa 1000 kLy pro Jahr gegeben ist. In Gebieten Amerikas und Afrikas werden über 220 kLy pro Jahr gemessen.In the physical measurement in relation to the examination and use of polyolefin fabrics, only the so-called global radiation striking the earth's surface is of practical importance. It is the sum of the direct solar radiation and the sky radiation scattered by the components of the earth's atmosphere. The global radiation encompasses the wavelength range from approximately 290-1400 nm, the proportion of long-wave radiation in the IR region (780-1400 nm) is approximately 53%, the visible region (400-780 nm) provides approximately 43% and the UV component (290 - 400 nm) only about 4 - 6% of the total global radiation. The radiation energy is measured using a pyrheliometer. The energy is given in joules. In practice, however, the Langley unit is still widely used, particularly in Kilo-Langley. 1 kilo-Langley - kLy - corresponds to solar radiation of 1 kCal / cm 2 . The intensity is generally given in kLy per year. Weather maps show that e.g. B. In Central Europe there is sunshine of about 1000 kLy per year. In areas of America and Africa, over 220 kLy are measured annually.

Die vorgenannte Aufgabe wird dadurch gelöst, daß der Schüttgutbehälter wenigstens ein Indikatorelement an einer Stelle, die der Sonne ausgesetzt ist, trägt, und daß das Indikatorelement reproduzierbar sicht- oder meßbare Eigenschaftsänderungen entsprechend der auf das Gewebe einwirkenden Sonnenstrahlung erfährt. Dabei kann es sich bei dem Indikatorelement um ein Gewebe, eine Folie, ein Vlies oder eine Schicht handeln, die bei einer definierten Sonneneinstrahlung wenigstens eine ihrer physikalischen Eigenschaften, z. B. ihre Festigkeit oder Farbe, meß- und reproduzierbar ändert.The aforementioned object is achieved in that the bulk container carries at least one indicator element at a point which is exposed to the sun, and that the indicator element experiences reproducibly visible or measurable property changes in accordance with the solar radiation acting on the tissue. The indicator element can be a fabric, a film, a nonwoven or a layer which, in the case of defined solar radiation, has at least one of its physical properties, e.g. B. changes its strength or color, measurable and reproducible.

Beispielsweise werden kleine Fähnchen aus Polyethylen mit weißem Pigment, z. B. TiO2 versehen und als Indikatorelement verwendet. Durch Laborversuche kann empirisch die Standzeit derartiger Indikatorelemente festgelegt werden, so daß nach einer bestimmten Zeit der Einstrahlung mit Hilfe einfacher Dehnungsmessungen festgestellt werden kann, welche Stabilität das Indikatorelement nach einer bestimmten Zeit des Gebrauches noch hat.For example, small flags made of polyethylene with white pigment, e.g. B. TiO 2 and used as an indicator element. The service life of such indicator elements can be determined empirically by laboratory tests, so that after a certain time of irradiation, simple strain measurements can be used to determine what stability the indicator element still has after a certain time of use.

Mit der vorliegenden Erfindung ist es daher möglich, die kumulierte Intensität festzustellen, die auf den Behälter eingewirkt hat. Die eingesetzten Indikatorelemente können daher Aufschluß darüber geben, welche Intensität an Strahlung bereits auf den Beutel eingewirkt hat, so daß für die weitere Verwendungsfähigkeit bzw. den weiteren Einsatz des Schüttgutbehälters sofort an Ort und Stelle entschieden werden kann. Der Praxis am nächsten kommend sind dabei Indikatorelemente in Form von Streifen oder Fähnchen, die an exponierten Stellen des Schüttgutbehälters aufgenäht sind und die zur Untersuchung abgetrennt werden. Hier kann dieselbe Kunststoffqualität gewählt werden, die auch den Garnen des Gewebes zukommt.With the present invention it is therefore possible to determine the cumulative intensity which has acted on the container. The indicator elements used can therefore provide information about the intensity of radiation which has already acted on the bag, so that a decision can be made immediately on the spot for the further usability or the further use of the bulk goods container. Indicator elements in the form of strips or flags, which are sewn on to exposed areas of the bulk goods container and which are separated for analysis, come closest to practice. The same plastic quality can be selected here that also applies to the yarns of the fabric.

Es ist aber auch möglich, Indikatorelemente in das Gewebe einzuweben, wobei insbesondere an Indikatorelemente gedacht ist, die sich im Laufe der Zeit charakteristisch verfärben. Es sind Farbstoffe bekannt, die durch Sonneneinstrahlung eine Ent- oder Verfärbung ergeben und daher ebenfalls als kumulative Meßindikatoren einsetzbar sind.However, it is also possible to weave indicator elements into the tissue, with particular reference being made to indicator elements that become characteristic over time discolor. Dyes are known which cause discoloration or discoloration due to solar radiation and can therefore also be used as cumulative measurement indicators.

Üblicherweise wird das Gewebegarn des Schüttgutbehälters mit geeigneten UV-stabilisatoren oder UV-Absorbern ausgerüstet, die als Lichtschutzmittel sowohl zur Verbesserung der Lichtbeständigkeit als auch als Sonnenschutzmittel Verwendung finden. Es gibt hier verschiedene chemotechnische Möglichkeiten (vgl. Artikel UV-Absorber in RÖMPP, Chemie-Lexikon), die teilweise auch gemischt verwendet werden und in vielen Fällen Herstellungsgeheimnis sind.The fabric yarn of the bulk goods container is usually equipped with suitable UV stabilizers or UV absorbers, which are used as light stabilizers both to improve the light resistance and as sun protection agents. There are various chemotechnical options here (cf. article UV absorber in RÖMPP, chemical lexicon), some of which are also used in mixed form and in many cases are manufacturing secrets.

Bei Verwendung von Indikatorelementen derselben Zusammensetzung wie das Grundgewebe lassen sich einfacherweise zu jeder beliebigen Zeit Aussagen darüber treffen, welche Sonneneinstrahlung bereits gewirkt hat. Insbesondere kann der Hersteller auch eine Garantie darüber geben, daß mit einer bestimmten UV-Beständigkeit des FIBC-Gewebes von 80, 150 bzw. 200 kLy eine Aussage damit verbunden sein kann, daß nach der vorhandenen Einstrahlung noch eine Restfestigkeit von 50 % der ursprünglichen Festigkeit vorhanden ist, wobei die ASTM-Normen eingehalten werden.When using indicator elements of the same composition as the base fabric, statements can easily be made at any time as to what solar radiation has already worked. In particular, the manufacturer can also give a guarantee that with a certain UV resistance of the FIBC fabric of 80, 150 or 200 kLy, a statement can be made that after the existing radiation there is still a residual strength of 50% of the original strength is present, whereby the ASTM standards are observed.

Mit Vorteil wird auch ein gefärbter Indikator verwendet, der sich bei einer definierten Sonneneinstrahlung farblich verändert. Ein Farbindikator kann z. B. in einem weißen Gewebe partiell eingebracht sein. Die Menge der kumulierten Sonneneinstrahlung ist bei einem gebrauchten FIBC feststellbar, wenn ein Indikator vorhanden ist. Hat sich der Indikator z. B. nach einer Einstrahlung von 50 kLy farblich verändert, so ist eine entsprechende UV-Einstrahlung wirksam geworden. Darüber hinaus wird vorgeschlagen, durch Indikatorelemente, die mit Kennfäden kombiniert sind, eine bestimmte Standfestigkeit gegenüber Sonneneinstrahlung anzudeuten, beispielsweise 50 kLy gelber Kennfaden 75 kLy grüner Kennfaden 100 kLy roter Kennfaden 150 kLy schwarzer Kennfaden. It is also advantageous to use a colored indicator that changes color when there is a defined amount of sunlight. A color indicator can e.g. B. be partially introduced in a white tissue. The amount of accumulated solar radiation can be determined with a used FIBC if an indicator is available. Has the indicator z. B. after an irradiation of 50 kLy changed color, a corresponding UV radiation has become effective. In addition, it is proposed to use indicator elements that are combined with characteristic threads to provide a certain stability To indicate solar radiation, for example 50 kLy yellow tracer 75 kLy green tracer 100 kLy red tracer 150 kLy black tracer.

Insbesondere ist es vorteilhaft, gefärbte Indikatorfäden in das Gewebe einzuweben, da es sich hierbei um eine praktisch fälschungssichere Maßnahme handelt. Ein eingewebt er Indikatorfaden oder ein entsprechendes Bändchen hat den Vorteil, daß es sich nicht nachträglich wieder in ein Gewebe einschießen läßt, so daß ein vorhandenes Indikatorelement den Zustand des Gewebes angibt.In particular, it is advantageous to weave colored indicator threads into the tissue, since this is a practically forgery-proof measure. A woven-in indicator thread or a corresponding ribbon has the advantage that it cannot be subsequently shot into a tissue, so that an existing indicator element indicates the condition of the tissue.

Insbesondere wird vorgeschlagen, aussagefähige Stellen für das Anbringen von Indikatorelementen zu wählen, so z. B.

  • den Kragenbereich,
  • den Deckelbereich,
  • die Seitenflächen und/oder
  • die Transportschlaufen.
In particular, it is proposed to choose meaningful places for the attachment of indicator elements, such as. B.
  • the collar area,
  • the lid area,
  • the side surfaces and / or
  • the transport loops.

Hierdurch werden die Stellen mit einem Indikator ausgestattet, die sowohl der Sonneneinstrahlung am stärksten ausgesetzt sind als auch den größten Belastungen unterliegen können. Man bekommt damit eine Aussage, die für den praktischen Gebrauch von größter Bedeutung ist. Das Indikatorelement gibt an, daß im Gewebe, in den Trageschlaufen bzw. im Nähgarn nach einer bestimmten Sonneneinstrahlung noch eine bestimmte Restfestigkeit der ursprünglichen Festigkeit vorhanden ist.As a result, the points are equipped with an indicator that are both most exposed to the sun's rays and can be subjected to the greatest loads. This gives you a statement that is of the greatest importance for practical use. The indicator element indicates that a certain residual strength of the original strength is still present in the fabric, in the carrying straps or in the sewing thread after a certain amount of sunlight.

Dies gilt auch dann, wenn das Gewebe aus Kunststoffäden als Polyolefinen hergestellt ist, da diese Kunststoffe ein kostengünstiges und relativ preiswertes Gewebe ermöglichen. Mit den Kunststoffäden können auch elektrisch leitende Fäden verwebt sein. Hierdurch werden Aufladungen beim Befüllen, Transport und Entleeren des Schüttgutbehälters sicher abgeleitet. Diese leitenden Fäden bestehen vorteilhaft in der Grundsubstanz aus Polypropylen und können beispielsweise gemäß EP 298 767 A3 hergestellt sein. Dadurch daß sowohl die nichtleitenden als auch die leitenden Fäden des Gewebes aus der gleichen Grundsubstanz hergestellt sind, gibt das Indikatorelement im wesentlichen den Zustand des gesamten eingesetzten Gewebes an.This also applies if the fabric is made of plastic threads as polyolefins, since these plastics enable an inexpensive and relatively inexpensive fabric. The plastic threads can also be electrical conductive threads are woven. This safely discharges charges when filling, transporting and emptying the bulk container. These conductive threads advantageously consist of polypropylene in the basic substance and can be produced, for example, according to EP 298 767 A3. Because both the non-conductive and the conductive threads of the fabric are made of the same basic substance, the indicator element essentially indicates the condition of the entire fabric used.

In diesem Zusammenhang sei darauf verwiesen, daß ein Indikator zum Nachweis von UV-B-Strahlung bekannt ist (DE 92 05 575 U1). Er besteht aus einem Rezeptor aus fototropen Material und einem Filter, der für elektromagnetische Strahlung der Wellenlänge 280 nm bis 315 nm und oberhalb von etwa 500 nm selektiv durchlässig ist. Der Filter ist über dem Material angeordnet. Diese Indikatorausführungsform ist aber für den hier vorliegenden Zweck nicht verwendbar.In this context, it should be pointed out that an indicator for the detection of UV-B radiation is known (DE 92 05 575 U1). It consists of a receptor made of phototropic material and a filter that is selectively transparent to electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of 280 nm to 315 nm and above about 500 nm. The filter is placed over the material. However, this indicator embodiment cannot be used for the purpose at hand.

Die Erfindung wird nachstehend an einem Ausführungsbeispiel näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

Figur 1
einen Schüttgutbehälter mit Indikatorelementen in einer perspektivischen schematischen Darstellung,
Figur 2
eine Gewebestruktur des zur Herstellung eines Schüttgutbehälters gemäß Figur 1 verwendeten Gewebes, mit als Indikatorelemente verwendeten einzelnen Fäden.
The invention is explained in more detail below using an exemplary embodiment. Show it:
Figure 1
a bulk container with indicator elements in a perspective schematic representation,
Figure 2
a fabric structure of the fabric used to manufacture a bulk container according to Figure 1, with individual threads used as indicator elements.

In Figur 1 ist ein Schüttgutbehälter 1, ein sogenannter FIBC, dargestellt. Er besteht aus einem Tragbeutel 5, der oben mit Hebeschlaufen 7 und 7' versehen ist. In seinem Deckelbereich 10 weist der Tragbeutel 5 einen Einfüllstutzen 8, in seinem Bodenbereich 11 einen Auslaufstutzen 9 auf.In Figure 1, a bulk container 1, a so-called FIBC, is shown. It consists of a carrying bag 5, which is provided with lifting loops 7 and 7 'at the top. In its lid area 10, the carrier bag 5 has a filler neck 8, in its bottom area 11 an outlet 9.

Der Tragbeutel ist aus einem Gewebe 2 aus hochfesten Kunststoffäden 3 hergestellt, bei dem elektrisch leitende Fäden 3' mit eingewebt sind. Diese elektrisch leitenden Fäden 3' bestehen aus einem durch Rußzusatz elektrisch schwach leitend gemachten Polyolefin, vorzugsweise Polypropylen, wie es sich beispielsweise gemäß EP 208 767 A3 herstellen läßt. Durch das Einweben wird das Gewebe mit einem Gitternetz sich kreuzender, elektrisch leitender Fäden durchsetzt, über das bei entsprechender Erdung die beim Benutzen der Schüttgutbehälter, vornehmlich beim Einfüllen bzw. Entleeren, entstehende statische Elektrizität abgeleitet werden kann.The carrier bag is made from a fabric 2 made of high-strength plastic threads 3, in which electrically conductive threads 3 'are woven in. These electrically conductive threads 3 'consist of a polyolefin, preferably polypropylene, which is made electrically weakly conductive by the addition of carbon black, as can be produced, for example, according to EP 208 767 A3. As a result of the weaving in, the fabric is interspersed with a grid of intersecting, electrically conductive threads, via which, with appropriate grounding, the static electricity generated when using the bulk material containers, primarily when filling or emptying, can be dissipated.

Dieser Schüttgutbehälter 1 wird bei seinem Gebrauch der Sonneneinstrahlung ausgesetzt, die in kLy gemessen wird. Üblicherweise werden die Fäden des Gewebes 2 mit geeigneten UV-Stabilisatoren ausgerüstet. Hierdurch wird eine UV-Beständigkeit von 150 kLy erreicht, bis die Festigkeit auf 50 % des ursprünglichen Wertes gesunken ist. Für die leichteren Teile, den Auslaufstutzen 9, den Einlaufstutzen 8 und den Deckelbereich 10, ist eine UV-Beständigkeit von 80 kLy üblich und erforderlich.This bulk goods container 1 is exposed to the sun's radiation, which is measured in kLy. The threads of the fabric 2 are usually equipped with suitable UV stabilizers. This results in a UV resistance of 150 kLy until the strength has dropped to 50% of the original value. For the lighter parts, the outlet nozzle 9, the inlet nozzle 8 and the lid area 10, a UV resistance of 80 kLy is common and required.

Um die Sonneneinstrahlung und damit die mögliche UV-Schädigung feststellen zu können, werden auf dem Schüttgutbehälter an wichtigen aussagefähigen Stellen Indikatorelemente 4, 4' bzw. 4" befestigt. Ein Indikatorelement 4 wird dabei vorzugsweise im Kragenbereich angebracht. Weiterhin ist es möglich, Indikatorelemente 4', 4" im Deckelbereich oder an den Hebeschlaufen 7 und 7' sowie an den Seitenflächen 12 und 12' zu befestigen.In order to be able to determine the sun's radiation and thus the possible UV damage, indicator elements 4, 4 'or 4 "are attached to important informative points on the bulk goods container. An indicator element 4 is preferably attached in the collar area. It is also possible to use indicator elements 4 ', 4 "in the lid area or on the lifting loops 7 and 7' and on the side surfaces 12 and 12 '.

Die Indikatorelemente 4, 4' und 4" können als Farbumschlagindikatoren ausgebildet sein oder aber als an beiden Enden aufgenähte Fähnchen, die zur Untersuchung leicht abschneidbar sind. Darüber hinaus können auch Farbindikatorelemente in Form von Bändchen oder Fäden in das Behältergewebe mit eingewebt werden, wobei sie innerhalb eines im übrigen weißen Gewebes leicht erkennbar sind (Bezugszahl 40). Das Gewebe 2 selbst besteht, wie insbesondere aus Figur 2 hervorgeht, aus UV-beständig ausgerüsteten Kunststoffäden 3, in die in bestimmten Abständen leitende (dunkle) Fäden 3' eingewebt sind. Indikatorelemente 40 in Form von Farbfäden sind daneben zu erkennen.The indicator elements 4, 4 'and 4 "can be designed as color change indicators or as flags sewn on both ends, which can easily be cut for examination. In addition, color indicator elements in the form of ribbons or threads can also be woven into the container fabric, whereby they are easily recognizable within an otherwise white fabric (reference number 40). The fabric 2 itself, as can be seen in particular from FIG. 2, consists of UV-resistant plastic threads 3, into which conductive (dark) threads 3 'are woven at certain intervals. Indicator elements 40 in the form of colored threads can also be seen.

Die Ausrüstung des Gewebes 2 mit einer UV-Beständigkeit von 150 bzw. 80 kLy besagt, daß nach dieser Einstrahlung die Reißfestigkeit des Gewebes gegenüber der ursprünglichen Festigkeit um 50 % abgenommen haben darf. Erfindungsgemäß werden Indikatorelemente 4, 4', 4" bzw. 40 an den genannten Stellen 6, 7, 7', 10, 12 und 12' befestigt, da diese Stellen aussagefähige Meßergebnisse liefern. Möglich ist es aber auch, die Indikatorelemente 4, 4', 4" bereits bei der Herstellung des Gewebes 2 einzuweben. Hierdurch ist eine von mechanischen Einflüssen bzw. möglichen Manipulationen freie Aussage über den Gewebezustand möglich.Equipping the fabric 2 with a UV resistance of 150 or 80 kLy means that after this irradiation, the tensile strength of the fabric may have decreased by 50% compared to the original strength. According to the invention, indicator elements 4, 4 ', 4 "or 40 are attached to the above-mentioned locations 6, 7, 7', 10, 12 and 12 ', since these locations provide meaningful measurement results. However, it is also possible to use the indicator elements 4, 4 ', 4 "to be woven in during the manufacture of the fabric 2. This makes it possible to make a statement about the state of the tissue free of mechanical influences or possible manipulations.

Die Indikatoreelemente 4, 4' und 4" bzw. 40 können durch eine Veränderungs- oder Farbreaktion eine Information über die erfolgte Sonneneinstrahlung liefern, da wenigstens eine ihrer physikalischen Eigenschaften, z. B. ihre Festigkeit oder Farbe, sich meß- und reproduzierbar geändert hat.The indicator elements 4, 4 'and 4 "or 40 can provide information about the solar radiation that has occurred through a change or color reaction, since at least one of their physical properties, for example their strength or color, has changed in a measurable and reproducible manner .

Eine andere Möglichkeit ist das Anbringen von Indikatoren 4, 4' und 4" aus einem Stück Gewebe, Folie, Vlies oder beschichteten Material, welches eine empirisch eingestellte, definierte UV-Stabilität besitzt und beispielsweise bei einer Einstrahlung von 50, 100 oder 150 kLy zerbricht, zerkrümelt oder spröde wird. Derartiges eingesetztes Material kann dann durch Augenschein schon als nicht mehr mit ausreichender Festigkeit versehen erkannt werden.Another possibility is to attach indicators 4, 4 'and 4 "from a piece of tissue, film, fleece or coated material which has an empirically set, defined UV stability and, for example, with an irradiation of 50, 100 or 150 kLy breaks, crumbles or becomes brittle. Such used material can then already be recognized by visual inspection as no longer provided with sufficient strength.

Es sei darauf hingewiesen, daß man insbesondere einem gebrauchten "Second Hand"-FIBC nicht ansieht, welche UV-Strahlung auf ihn eingewirkt hat. Der Verwender und Käufer des Behälters soll rechtzeitig darüber informiert sein, wann Ersatz des Behälters erforderlich ist. Der Indikator gewährleistet auf der anderen Seite, daß nicht nur der reine Zeitfaktor eine Rolle spielt, sondern die Einstrahlung als hauptsächlisches, die Alterung bedingendes Element. Daher kann ein Behälter üblicherweise länger als bisher verwendet werden, da er nicht aus sicherheitstechnischen Gründen vorzeitig aus dem Verkehr genommen wird. Auf der anderen Seite können unsachgemäße Füllungsbedingungen, beispielsweise mit nicht zugelassenen Füllgütern bei Schäden dem Verhalten des Transporteurs zugerechnet werden, da die Indikatorelemente anzeigen, daß eine eine Schädigung auslösende Sonneneinstrahlung bisher nicht beobachtet werden konnte.It should be pointed out that in particular a used "second hand" FIBC cannot be seen which UV radiation has affected it. The user and buyer of the container should be informed in good time when replacement of the container is necessary. On the other hand, the indicator ensures that not only the pure time factor plays a role, but also the radiation as the main element that causes aging. Therefore, a container can usually be used longer than before because it is not taken out of service prematurely for safety reasons. On the other hand, improper filling conditions, for example with non-approved filling goods in the event of damage, can be attributed to the behavior of the transporter, since the indicator elements indicate that solar radiation which has caused damage has not hitherto been observed.

Claims (6)

  1. Bulk container, in particular a flexible bulk container (FIBC), which is made essentially of a woven fabric of high-strength plastics filaments or tapes, characterised in that the bulk container bears at least one indicator element (4; 4'; 4"; 40) at a point (6; 7; 7'; 10; 12; 12') which is exposed to the sun, and that the indicator element undergoes reproducible, visible or measurable changes of property according to the solar radiation acting on the woven fabric.
  2. Bulk container according to claim 1, characterised in that the indicator element (4; 4'; 4") consists of a woven fabric, a film, a nonwoven fabric or a layer which changes at least one of its physical properties, e.g. its strength or colour, in a measurable or reproducible manner under a defined insolation.
  3. Bulk container according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the indicator element(s) (40; 4', 4") is/are worked into the woven fabric (2) and/or attached to the woven fabric (2).
  4. Bulk container according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the indicator element(s) (4") consist(s) of plastics film strips which can be cut off the transport containers for examination.
  5. Bulk container according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that indicator elements are located
    - in the neck region (6) of the container,
    - in the top region (10),
    - at the side faces (12, 12') and/or
    - at the transport loops (7, 7').
  6. Bulk container according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the woven fabric (2) is made of olefin filaments (3) or tapes with which filaments (3') or tapes which may be electrically conductive and also consist essentially of an olefin are interwoven.
EP94903804A 1992-12-17 1993-12-16 Bulk material container Expired - Lifetime EP0625951B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE9217248U 1992-12-17
DE9217248U DE9217248U1 (en) 1992-12-17 1992-12-17
PCT/EP1993/003575 WO1994013559A1 (en) 1992-12-17 1993-12-16 Bulk material container

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0625951A1 EP0625951A1 (en) 1994-11-30
EP0625951B1 true EP0625951B1 (en) 1997-03-19

Family

ID=6887255

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP94903804A Expired - Lifetime EP0625951B1 (en) 1992-12-17 1993-12-16 Bulk material container

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EP (1) EP0625951B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE150416T1 (en)
DE (2) DE9217248U1 (en)
DK (1) DK0625951T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2101497T3 (en)
NO (1) NO943013D0 (en)
WO (1) WO1994013559A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10272639B2 (en) 2015-03-23 2019-04-30 Emd Millipore Corporation Abrasion resistant film for biocontainers

Families Citing this family (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB9303709D0 (en) * 1993-02-24 1993-04-14 Some Guys Ltd Flexible containers-safety improvement
US5474111A (en) * 1993-10-22 1995-12-12 Degussa Corporation Fine particle handling
DK0761566T3 (en) * 1995-09-12 2001-09-10 Degussa Method and apparatus for removing fine material from a container
DE19715230A1 (en) * 1997-04-12 1998-10-15 Peter Dipl Ing Dinter Flexible bulk container with indicators for the detection of material damage caused by UV rays
DE19847059C2 (en) * 1998-10-13 2001-05-17 Eurea Verpackungsgmbh & Co Kg Flexible transport container
DE10041832B4 (en) * 2000-08-25 2014-07-24 Flexsabo Silo- Und Anlagenbau Gmbh Silo or container using limp wall material
EP1510474A1 (en) 2003-08-27 2005-03-02 Gunner Schroll A flexible bag for containing bulk material

Family Cites Families (2)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3204758C2 (en) * 1982-02-11 1985-10-24 Adolf 6960 Osterburken Lesk Plastic fabric containers
DE3938414C2 (en) * 1989-08-19 1994-04-14 Eurea Verpackung Bulk goods container made of a woven carrier bag and carrier devices attached to it

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10272639B2 (en) 2015-03-23 2019-04-30 Emd Millipore Corporation Abrasion resistant film for biocontainers
US10675836B2 (en) 2015-03-23 2020-06-09 Emd Millipore Corporation Abrasion resistant film for biocontainers
US11110684B2 (en) 2015-03-23 2021-09-07 Emd Millipore Corporation Abrasion resistant film for biocontainers

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO1994013559A1 (en) 1994-06-23
DE9217248U1 (en) 1993-02-25
DK0625951T3 (en) 1997-10-06
DE59305880D1 (en) 1997-04-24
ES2101497T3 (en) 1997-07-01
ATE150416T1 (en) 1997-04-15
EP0625951A1 (en) 1994-11-30
NO943013L (en) 1994-08-15
NO943013D0 (en) 1994-08-15

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