Your full serviceFIBC supplier

SINCE 1922

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Content

2. KEY F IGURES

65 .

INTRODUCTION

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3. V IS ION

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1 . H ISTORY

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4 . VALUE CREATION

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8 . T IPS FORFIBC USE

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6 . POWER-L IFT ®

PRODUCT RANGE

107 .

CASES

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NNZ is a multinational company owned and run by the Boot family since 1922. Our employees create packaging solutions for our customers in the fresh produce and industrial markets.In 1922 NNZ started trading in jute bags from ‘Pakhuis Libau’ in Groningen, The Netherlands - the start of a family business with international ambitions.

Today, NNZ has grown into an organisation with more than 200 employees, serving customers from offices in Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

In close cooperation with our partners in 40 other countries, NNZ provides packaging solutions to a worldwide customer base.

1. HistorySINCE 1922

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1922

TODAY

1970Net packaging

1975FIBCs

1950Paper packaging

1980Plastic packaging

1990-NOWVarious packaging

innovations

1922Jute packaging

Industrial markets

Agricultural markets

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2. Key figuresNNZ IN A NUTSHELL

3. Vision ‘INSPIRED TO CREATE PACKAGING SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR SUCCESS! ’

Our employees

NNZ gives its employees centre stage. We believe this leads to more creativity and Productivity, and in turn, is extremely important to our customers, suppliers and other stakeholders.

Our 4 ‘P’s

We aim to work with Pleasure in a Passionate and Personal way according to the Plans we make together.

Our network

The strength of a network is found in the ability to increase its competitive strength, which is why NNZ is seeking partners in our network that are sustainable, social, product leaders, customer focused, innovative, trendsetters, flexible, transparent, reliable and ethical.

FOUNDED EMPLOYEES

PRODUCT

HEADQUARTERS BRANCHES WAREHOUSE

MARKETS

REVENUE

1922 230

Agricultural (80%)Industrial (20%)

Packaging materials

GroningenThe Netherlands

24 in Europe, the United States of

America and Canada

50.000 m2

155million euros

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4. Value creationLOGISTICAL SOLUTIONS AND INNOVATION THROUGH CO-CREATION

Purchasing, logistics, warehousing and sales

With strategically located subsidiaries in different countries we can fulfil the different needs of our customers in respect of purchasing, logistics, warehousing, sales and co-creation requirements.

Customisation in co-creation

We work together with our customers and a diverse team of professionals - packaging engineers, food technology experts, graphic designers and market researchers - co-creating customised products from concept to market introduction.

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5. IntroductionINDUSTRY

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FIBCs are economical and versatile. FIBCs have the lowest ratio for packaging weight to transported weight, they can be reused or recycled and can adapt to the material, the factory and distribution systems. Design options make FIBCs the ideal packaging for a variety of materials, such as chemicals, food, pharmaceuticals, building materials, firewood, cereals, seeds and fertiliser.

NNZ has developed its own FIBC under the brand name Power-Lift®, which has a storage capacity of between 500 and 2,500 litres. This bulk container meets strict international quality requirements. The Power-Lift® is tested by independent testing institutes according to NEN-EN 1898 and/or EFIBCA standards.

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Different kinds

1. FIBC / Big-Bag for the building industry2. FIBC / Big-Bag with liner3. FIBC / Big-Bag for firewood4. Conductive FIBC / Big-Bag5. FIBC / Big-Bag for industrial use6. FIBC / Big-Bag for food products7. Q-bag (Baffle bag)8. FIBC / Big-Bag for hazardous goods9. FIBC / single-point Big-Bag

FIBCs

FIBCs (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers) or ‘Big-Bags’ are made from woven PP fabric and are used for transporting and storing industrial products.

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6. Power-Lift® product range6.1 Standard Power-Lift®

The standard Power-Lift® is used for packaging, transporting and storing powders, granules and minerals.

6.2 Square shaped Power-Lift® (Q-bag)

The Q-bag is a square shaped Power-Lift® which is particularly suitable for the filling and transportation of free-flowing substances. The Q-bag’s stability is due to its sewn-in internal section. After filling, this Power-Lift® retains its original external dimensions with bulging being kept to a minimum. This provides substantial space-saving during transportation and storage. View from above

Power-Lift® Q-bag

6.3 Conductive Power-Lift®

Some bulk materials generate static electricity during filling, transport and unloading. This electricity can occur both inside the Power-Lift® and on the fabric’s surface. When this electric charge comes into contact with dust or gas, it can lead to a risk of fire or explosion. The use of a conductive Power-Lift® prevents this risk. NNZ supplies this bag in four classifications: types A, B, C and D.

ConductivePower-Lift®

Bulk storage Median diameter < 0.1 mm

Non-hazardous atmosphere

Explosive atmosphere

Flammable gas or vapour

Non-explosive dusts MCE > 10 J

A B C

MCE > 3 mJ B B C

1 mJ < MCE < 3 mJ C C C

MCE < 1 mJ C+O C+O C+O

MCE > 3 mJ, R < 1011 .m

B B C or D

1 mJ < MCE < 3 mJ, R < 1011 .m

C or D C or D C or D

This table is based on research carried out by INERIS (France)and the Swiss Institute for Hygiene and Safety.

i FIBC Type / Description

A. Any Power-Lift® can be used.B. Any Power-Lift® without liner, with

breakdown voltage less than 4kV.C. Conductive Power-Lift® with electric

resistance less than 108 . Each Power-Lift® has to be earthed during filling or emptying.

D. Power-Lift® made from static protective fabric. These bags do not need to be earthed. The electrostatic discharges are largely conducted to the environment by the conductive fibres.

O. Additional measures.

i Explanation

MCE: Minimum ignition energy for distributed particles.R: Volume resistance of stored product.mJ: millijoules.

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6.4 Sift-proof seams and liners

Power-Lift® bags can be provided with a coating and/or sift-proof seams to prevent fine powders and particles from leaking through the seams. Another way to prevent leakage is via the use of a liner. A liner has a high moisture barrier and is available in different types, varying from simple polyethylene tubular film to pre-shaped liners (with a filling and/or discharge valve). The use of modern co-extruded or laminated films helps to preserve flavour and aromatic substances and makes it possible, for example, to create an oxygen/gas barrier.

Closures

Single-point FIBC

Closed base

Conical

Cord

Discharge spout

Iris protection

Velcro

Double discharge spout

Base flap

B-lock

Standard Cross-corner Stevedore

Type description

Emptying options

Liners

Loop options

Filling options

Filling spout Conical Top skirt

Anti-static or conductive properties can also be added to the liner (e.g. a non-migrating, permanently anti-static version for food and pharmaceutical applications).

6.5 Extra’s

The Power-Lift® can be supplied with:- Printing on 1 to 4 sides, in maximum 3 colours - Document pockets- Extra information sheets- Extra loops

Tube

Square shapedFIBC FIBC spout

Liner

Bottle shaped

Electrically conductive

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7. Case studiesCUSTOMISATION

7.1 Safety

Sector Problem Customisation Solution

Food FIBCs are unstable during transport.

NNZ developed a square shaped FIBC which was ideally suited for the customer’s filling process.

The problem was solved by using the square shaped FIBC. Two additional advantages of this version are its higher filling level and 100% pallet utilisation.

7.2 Logistics

Sector Problem Customisation Solution

Chemical industry

The number of SKUs is too high.

On the basis of the existing FIBC portfolio and the filling options of the installations, NNZ advised to reduce the nuber of SKUs to 3.

The reduction in the number of SKUs had 2 advantages:1. Lower prices for the FIBCs due to greater purchasing volume due to economics of scale.2. Simplification to the stock management for both the customer and NNZ.

Food The customer regularly experienced the required FIBC is not in stock.

NNZ took over stock planning for the customer.

The customer was able to access stock within 2 days which increased their own productivity.

7.3 Cost saving

Sector Problem Customisation Solution

Feed Unsafe use of the FIBC due to the customer’s opinion that the FIBC was too expensive for only single use.

NNZ developed an FIBC based on the the customer’s product to be packaged. The product had a low density which meant the use of lower fabric weight was possible.

By reducing the fabric weight, the customer was able to safely use the FIBC and saved on the costs of this product.

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8. Tips for FIBC use*

8.1 Filling and discharging

8.1.1 Safety, general

This chapter describes the correct and safe handling of FIBCs during the filling and discharge process. Users should apply the general principle that FIBCs must not be used for products for which they are not intended. The protection of human health and safety is always given priority when filling and discharging FIBCs. Take appropriate measures to guarantee that no risks are present or will occur in the processing environment that will put the operator’s health at

risk or that can contaminate the load. Also bear in mind that risks may occur due to the build-up of static electricity and take preventative measures where necessary.

8.1.2 Filling

FIBCs are normally filled when they are suspended from one or more lifting devices, while the base of the bag is resting on the floor or a pallet or is suspended immediately above it. Other methods can be used in consultation with NNZ.

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* source EFIBCA

Bear in mind the following when filling the bag: - Before filling it, the FIBC must be inspected

for any visible damage which makes the bag unsafe.

- The stated capacity for devices from which a filled FIBC can be suspended or that support the bag must be of sufficient strength.

- If the FIBC has a discharge spout or other discharge system, this has to be tightened or sealed in accordance with the instructions of NNZ for the FIBC before filling.

- The physical and chemical properties of the filling content (bulk density, degree of aeration, flow properties, dust formation, etc.) and the environment (electrostatic problems in a flammable or explosive environment) must be compatible with the FIBC.

- When filling and discharging an FIBC an electrostatic charge can occur, which under certain circumstances can lead to an explosion.

- Consult NNZ before filling materials at a

- When filling the bag, make sure the content is evenly distributed in the FIBC (no trapped air, etc.), and that the FIBC remains stable after filling.

- Take adequate safety measures to protect everyone at the filling location against any potential risks.

8.1.3 Stability

To guarantee stability during loading, the filling height of the FIBC must measure at least half but no more than twice the shortest horizontal dimension of the FIBC. This is usually: - the diameter of an FIBC with a round base - the length of the short side of an FIBC with

a rectangular base.

Other important factors that affect the stability of the filled FIBC are the content’s flow properties, the free space and air entrapment. Stability is often improved by vibration during or after filling as this can remove trapped air and compact the content.

8.1.4 Discharging

FIBCs are normally discharged by means of gravity but they can also be sucked or blown empty. The content’s flow properties, any electro-static risks when discharging, and the costs of ancillary equipment, often governs which method is chosen. When discharging with a bottom discharge tube by means of gravity, the discharge flow can be controlled by means of the size of the tube’s aperture. The discharge flow can be stopped completely by putting the FIBC onto the discharged content. Some single-trip FIBCs are emptied by simply cutting the base out of the bag. In that case the flow can be stopped completely by putting the FIBC on top of the discharged content.

We recommend the following guidelines for discharging FIBCs efficiently and safely. Specific safety instructions for product and location must be carried out when discharging FIBCs.

- In the case of single-use FIBCs with a flat base, i.e. without a discharge system, the base has to be torn or cut open with a cutting tool. The cutting tool must be long enough to be able to keep a safe distance from the FIBC’s base during discharge.

- In the case of FIBCs with a discharge system (spouts, etc.), the spout must be opened while the FIBC is correctly suspended. It is also recommended to use a safety lock in case the suspension method is not working.

- Staff must keep at a safe distance from the FIBC during discharge. Staff must never stand immediately underneath a suspended FIBC during discharge.

Attention: when discharging an FIBC an electro-static charge can occur, which under certain circumstances can lead to risk of explosion. For more information on electro-static discharge see Section 6.3.

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8.2 Transporting FIBCs

8.2.1 Lifting FIBCs

Before lifting an FIBC, make sure this can be done safely. Staff must be aware that even when FIBCs have been shipped with greatest care, some units can nevertheless be damaged during transport.

The FIBC lifting device is that part of the FIBC that can be used to grab and lift the bag, such as the bag’s sides or integrated tubes or loops.

A distinction can be made between the tube type and the hook type. FIBCs with two tubes can only be lifted with rods or other straight elements, while FIBCs with lifting loops can also be lifted with hooks. When lifting an FIBC with four loops, the loops must be vertical while lifting, and not point into the lifting direction from an angle.

Irrespective of the design (one, two or four loops), all the loops on the FIBC must be used when lifting it. When a filled FIBC is lifted by its top lifting device, the forces are: - Absorbed by the base and the body of the unit,

whereby the body’s fabric expands to form the lifting loops or other mechanisms have been fitted at the upper part of the body.

- Partly absorbed by separate or integral lifting devices that pass under the body of the container as a form of support.

Apply the general principle that the FIBC should be lifted and lowered symmetrically, without abrupt movements or jolts. Swaying in whatever form while lifting must be avoided. Be aware that most transport damage is the consequence of incorrectly lifting the FIBC. Never lift the FIBC with steel or rope cables, etc. as the FIBC’s loops can be torn as a consequence.

8.2.2 Processing with cranes or hoists

FIBCs must be lifted according the instructions of NNZ, as shown on the label. The use of safety hooks with an integrated lock to prevent the loop from sliding off the hook is essential, especially

when several FIBCs are lifted together. The condition and size of the hook must be checked: - The radius of the hooks must be sufficiently

large to ensure the loop is not pressed together.

- The hooks should not have any burrs or sharp edges that can cut through the loops.

When the FIBC is suspended, the loops must be vertical and not twisted or knotted. If no suitable spreader is available, a four legged sling must be used. Each leg must be at least 2 metres long. Other lifting methods may only be used if this can be done safely, according to the instructions of NNZ on the label. For example: - Four lifting loops on one hook - Two lifting loops on one hook, two by two.

FIBCs with four lifting loops should generally not be suspended from one point as this gives a considerable angular stress while processing.

One hook is permitted for single-point FIBCs if it is attached directly to the pre-formed loop or a temporary collar. In this instance in particular, the correct size of hook must be used.

Several FIBCs may be lifted at the same time, provided that this can be done safely. When lifting more than one bag together, the lifting loops must be lifted vertically. The FIBCs must not be lifted with a steel or rope cable, belt, or loop, etc. through one or more lifting loops as lifting in this way will lead to friction and damage the loops. Oscillation of or lateral forces on the FIBC during lifting must be prevented.

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8.2.3 Lifting using a forklift truck

Make sure the forks are spaced correctly. The FIBC must be suspended from the forks in such a way that no lateral forces occur in the FIBC. The lifting loops must not be twisted. We recommend limiting the protrusion of the forks at the back of the lifted FIBC to a minimum as this reduces the risk of unintentional damage, particularly to other stacked FIBCs. You should therefore use only forks of appropriate length on the forklift; DO NOT solve the problem by putting the FIBC as far away as possible from the forklift’s mast.

Piercing the FIBC with the forks or with obstacles in the processing room can be prevented by informing staff about the vulnerability of FIBCs to this kind of damage. Use rounded forks,

normal forks without burrs or sharp edges, or forks wrapped in a suitable material to prevent breaking off or damaging the lifting loops.

If the FIBC has four lifting loops, all four loops must always be used and the FIBC must be lifted vertically. Consult NNZ if you are in doubt about the width of the fork to be used (e.g. wider than 150 mm). Make sure pallets are in good condition and that the load is stable before processing the FIBCs on pallets. If no pallets are used, FIBCs must always be lifted using the supplied lifting arrangements. Do not use any other lifting method (e.g. bale clamps, lifting by the filling or discharge spouts, straps or belts around the bag, etc.).

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8.2.4 Horizontal transport using a forklift truck

The truck must be suitable for the load to be transported. When an FIBC is suspended from the forks during transport there is a risk the truck could become unstable. The FIBC must be held as close as possible to the mast, in the lowest possible position, and with the mast slightly tilted backwards so the wheels of the truck can not damage the FIBC. If the FIBC is suspended too near to the end of the forks it can slide from them when braking. The load must not restrict the driver’s visibility.

Do not drag FIBCs. Trucks must be brought to a standstill before an FIBC is lifted or lowered. FIBCs that are suspended from the truck during transportation can be exposed to high forces, such as when driving around bends or on an uneven surface at a high speed.

Therefore avoid the following:- Fast acceleration and braking- Driving fast around bends- Driving fast on an uneven surface.

8.3 Storing FIBCs

8.3.1 Introduction

We recommend the following guidelines for storing FIBCs efficiently and safely. Bear in mind any specific safety instructions for the product and location. - Some filled FIBCs are not suitable for

outdoor storage. It is important to follow the recommendations of NNZ in order to make the most of the useful life and performance of the FIBC and to prevent damage to its contents.

- Avoid storage of filled FIBCs at temperatures

been approved by NNZ. - Before storage, the FIBC must be inspected

for any visible damage which may render it unsafe. Make sure the FIBC remains stable when stacking.

- Pay extra attention to how the bag has been closed at the top.

- Make sure the FIBCs are not standing in water and that the storage space has been swept

and any dirt that can damage the base of the FIBCs at the base of the stack has been removed.

- Bags in stacks of unused FIBCs should be rotated regularly to prevent damage and deterioration due to long-term storage.

8.3.2 UV protection – use UV-stabilised FIBCs

Standard FIBCs are in principle not intended for outdoor storage, as the polymer from which the bags has been made gets damaged by UV radiation and weather conditions. Materials often undergo a photo-chemical degradation under the influence of sunlight, unless the materials have been stabilised for durability. If it is impossible to cover all the FIBCs for the whole storage period, the use of UV-stabilisesd FIBCs is strongly recommended to ensure a longer service life when they are stored outdoors.

It is of the utmost importance to follow the recommendations of NNZ in order to make the most of the service life and performance of the FIBC and prevent damage to its content.

8.4 Repeated use

Repeated use limits waste and costs. This is a given preference in the waste product’s hierarchy. However, only a reusable FIBC with a safety factor of at least 6:1 is suitable for repeated use. The life span of a reusable FIBC depends on how the FIBC is used and stored but it should preferably not exceed a period of two years from the date of manufacture. Single-trip FIBCs must not be reused under any circumstance. Before reusing FIBCs, ensure that the FIBCs to be reused still meet the same requirements as when they were used for the first time. During the inspection, check not only for visible damage but also non-visible damage, such as damage from previous use and storage of the FIBC (e.g. UV damage).

The user is responsible for inspection and reuse. The FIBC label gives relevant information to help determine to what extent an FIBC can be reused, stating for example its safety factor, class and date of manufacture.

8.5 Reconditioning

Reconditioning FIBCs means that used FIBCs are collected by a specialised service provider who prepares them for reuse. This is an eco-friendly way of treating used FIBCs, as it saves the materials for a new bag. Reconditioning FIBCs often also has financial advantages. The reconditioning process consists of collecting, cleaning (dry cleaning or wet washing), sorting, inspecting for damage and replacing service parts (e.g. document pocket, loops, label and liner). Modification of the structure or repair is not permitted.

The aim is to supply a reconditioned FIBC that is of the same quality as the original one.

After reconditioning, the bags are also tested and inspected individually, for example, for conductivity to guarantee that the bag is in a flawless state.

Only heavy-duty FIBCs with a safety factor of 6:1 are reconditioned. The product that is intended to fill the reconditioned FIBC must also be considered. Only bags that have never been in contact with hazardous materials qualify for reconditioning. With regard to vulnerable goods, strict cleaning requirements have to be met before the bags can be filled again. FIBCs for food products or pharmaceuticals should not be reconditioned. Due to safety reasons, reconditioning FIBCs for transporting hazardous goods is not recommended.

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8.7 Do’s-and-don’ts

Do Don’t

Read the instruction label on the FIBC. Exceed the SWL in any circumstances.

Inspect reusable FIBCs before refilling. Fill the FIBCs unevenly.

Make sure the discharge spout is closed before filling.

Stop or start abruptly during transport.

Make sure the filled FIBC is stable. Subject the FIBCs to abrupt lifting or jerk stops.

Close the filling spout correctly. Drag the FIBCs.

Use lifting gear of sufficient load capacity. Allow staff to stand under lifted FIBCs.

Adjust the distance between the forks of the forklift truck to the correct width of the FIBCs to be processed.

Allow FIBCs to lean against the side of a vehicle or pallet.

Tilt the forklift's mast backwards at the right angle. Tilt the forklift’s mast forward.

Drive slowly on uneven surfaces. Withdraw the forklift’s forks before the bag’s weight has been transferred to the lifting device.

Make sure that crane hooks, bars and forks that are used for lifting are of the appropriate size and have been properly rounded off.

Stack FIBCs without paying attention to stability.

Take adequate measures to prevent dust. Use single-trip FIBCs again.

Be aware of the risks of static electricity. Repair FIBCs for reuse.

Protect FIBCs against rain and/or prolonged sunlight.

Drive fast around a bend in a forklift truck with a filled FIBC.

Make sure FIBCs are properly secured during transport.

Use FIBCs for purposes other than those for which they were originally intended.

8.6 Recycling

Recycling is the most favourable option for bags that can not be reused. As FIBCs are made from a polypropylene fabric, they are very suitable for recycling in secondary materials. The polypropylene fabric can be mechanically processed without affecting the chemical structure. The used FIBCs are normally sorted into different qualities on the basis of what

has been transported in the bag and any contamination on the outside. Any foreign materials, and bags that are not suitable for recycling, are put aside for incineration. The suitable bags are crushed, cleaned, melted and extruded into pellets. The recycled material can be used for different applications. Note: FIBCs that have been in contact with hazardous materials are not suitable for recycling.

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+31 (0)50 5207800+31 (0)50 5207801

industrie@nnz.nl www.nnz.com

Aarhusweg 19723 JJ GroningenThe Netherlands