BS EN IEC 61340-4-4:2018

What is BS EN IEC 61340-4-4- Electrostatics and conventional test procedures for FIBCs (FIBC) about?

BS EN IEC 61340-4-4 is an international standard that focuses on electrostatics and standard test methods for specific applications with the classification of flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBC). BS EN IEC 61340-4-4 specifies requirements for flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBC) between 0,25 m³ and 3 m³ in volume, intended for use in hazardous explosive atmospheres. The explosive atmosphere can be created by the contents in the FIBC or can exist outside the FIBC.

Who is BS EN IEC 61340-4-4 - Electrostatics and conventional test procedures for FIBCs (FIBC)  for?

BS EN IEC 61340-4-4 on electrostatics and standard test methods for specific applications is useful for:

• Technicians and electricians
• Electrical engineers
• Transportation service providers
• The professional workers and trainers involved in an explosive atmosphere or hazardous areas.

Why should you use BS EN IEC 61340-4-4- Electrostatics and conventional test procedures for FIBCs (FIBC)?

Flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBC) are widely used for the storage, transportation

and handling of powdered, flaked, or granular material. Typically, they are constructed from

woven polypropylene fabric in the form of cubic bags of about 1m³ volume, although they can

vary in shape and size from 0,25 m³ to 3m³. The fabric used may be a single layer, a multi-layer laminate, or a coated fabric.

BS EN IEC 61340-4-4 informs that es FIBC is classified according to one of four types: Type A, Type B, Type C and Type D. The types are defined by the construction of the FIBC, the nature of their intended operation and associated performance requirements.

The test methods specified in BS EN IEC 61340-4-4 involve the use of high voltage power supplies and flammable gases that may present hazards if handled incorrectly, particularly by unqualified or inexperienced personnel. Users of  BS EN IEC 61340-4-4 are encouraged to carry out proper risk assessments and pay due regard to local regulations before undertaking any of the test procedures.

What’s changed since the last update?

BS EN IEC 61340-4-4:2018 supersedes BS EN 61340-4-4:2012+A1:2015. BS EN IEC 61340-4-4:2018 includes some technical changes concerning BS EN 61340-4-4:2012+A1:2015. These include:

• In light of experimental evidence, the maximum resistance to the ground limit for Type C FIBC, and corresponding resistance limits for inner liners used in Type C FIBC has been increased from 1,0 × 107 Ω to 1,0 × 108 Ω
• The classification of Type L1 inner liners have been revised and extended to include Type L1C inner liners made from multi-layer materials with a conductive internal layer
• A labelling requirement to include a reference to IEC TS 60079-32-1 for guidance on earthing has been added.