SC 1000 vs FC 1000 for sodium hydroxide

Both VARIBOX designs can be considered for sodium hydroxide applications described on this page. The right choice depends on your site setup, containment requirements, filling and emptying process, and the exact NaOH solution.

Selection point	VARIBOX SC 1000	VARIBOX FC 1000
Construction	Reusable single-containment IBC	Reusable double-walled IBC
Containment	Use within an approved site setup that provides the required containment	Integrated spill containment
Sodium hydroxide seal guidance on this page	EPDM	EPDM
Selection consideration	Suitable where the approved process and site setup support a single-containment IBC	Consider where integrated secondary containment is preferred or required
Product information	VARIBOX Single Containment	VARIBOX Full Containment

Final IBC selection should be confirmed for the exact chemical specification, site risk assessment and applicable transport and storage requirements.

Before choosing an IBC for sodium hydroxide

A useful IBC selection starts with the exact application, not only the chemical name. Before choosing a configuration, confirm the following with the responsible technical or safety team:

• Exact sodium hydroxide concentration and product specification
• Minimum and maximum filling, storage and transport temperatures
• Expected filling and emptying process, including valve and connection requirements
• Seal and material compatibility for the actual operating conditions
• Required site containment and the site-specific risk assessment
• Applicable transport, storage, inspection and reuse requirements
• Cleaning and return-cycle requirements for a reusable IBC

For the applications described here, EPDM is the recommended VARIBOX seal option. See the EPDM or Viton FAQ for more background, or contact VARIBOX to discuss the application.

Frequently asked questions about sodium hydroxide IBCs

Is sodium hydroxide the same as caustic soda?

Yes. Sodium hydroxide is the chemical name for NaOH and is commonly called caustic soda or lye. Using these terms naturally on this page helps users find the right packaging information regardless of the wording they use.

What UN number applies to sodium hydroxide solution?

This page concerns sodium hydroxide solution, which is listed as UN 1824 and Class 8. The applicable packing group can be II or III, so the exact classification should be confirmed for the specific solution and its transport documentation.

Which seal is recommended for a sodium hydroxide IBC?

For the sodium hydroxide applications described on this page, VARIBOX recommends EPDM. Final compatibility still depends on the exact concentration, temperature and process conditions.

What is the difference between the VARIBOX SC 1000 and FC 1000?

The VARIBOX SC 1000 is a reusable single-containment IBC. The VARIBOX FC 1000 is a reusable double-walled IBC with integrated spill containment. The preferred configuration depends on the approved site setup and application requirements.

Can one IBC configuration be used for every sodium hydroxide concentration?

Do not assume that one configuration is suitable for every solution. Confirm the exact NaOH concentration, temperature, product specification and operating conditions before selecting the final IBC configuration.

What is a caustic soda IBC tote?

“IBC tote” is a commonly used term for an Intermediate Bulk Container, particularly in North American terminology. A caustic soda IBC tote is therefore an IBC used for sodium hydroxide solution.

Does VARIBOX supply sodium hydroxide?

This page is about VARIBOX packaging solutions for sodium hydroxide. It provides information about selecting an IBC configuration for the chemical; it is not an offer to supply sodium hydroxide itself.