Salt Lake IBC

Custom Solutions

Modified IBC totes built to your exact specifications. From aquaponics to biodiesel, from mobile wash stations to chemical mixing, we engineer solutions for unique applications.

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Your Vision, Our Expertise

Standard IBCs are designed for one purpose: storing and transporting bulk liquids. But with the right modifications, an IBC can become virtually anything. We've built aquaponics systems for urban farms, mobile wash stations for construction companies, biodiesel reactors for homesteaders, chemical mixing tanks for manufacturers, and dozens of other creative applications.

Our fabrication shop at our Woods Cross facility is equipped with cutting tools, welding equipment, drill presses, threading machines, and painting stations. We work with both the HDPE bottle and the steel cage, and we can add, remove, or relocate any component to match your design.

Every custom project starts with a conversation. Tell us what you need, and we'll work with you to design a solution that's functional, durable, and cost-effective. Many customers find that a modified IBC accomplishes the same task as purpose-built equipment at a fraction of the cost.

Available Modifications

Here's a sampling of the modifications we perform regularly. If you don't see what you need, ask — we've probably done it before.

Custom Cutting

We cut IBC bottles to any height. Half-cuts for garden beds, two-thirds cuts for aquaponics fish tanks, quarter-cuts for shallow trays, and custom angled cuts for specialty applications. All cuts are deburred and edges are smoothed for safety.

Valve Placement

Need a valve somewhere other than the standard bottom-center location? We can add 2" threaded bungs anywhere on the bottle — sides, back, or at custom heights. We use bulkhead fittings with gaskets for leak-proof installations.

Additional Ports & Fittings

We install sight glasses for visual level monitoring, threaded ports for temperature probes or level sensors, overflow fittings, breather vents, and any combination of input/output connections your system requires.

Painting & Coating

HDPE bottles can be painted with UV-blocking coatings to prevent algae growth and extend bottle life. Steel cages can be powder-coated or spray-painted in any standard color. We also apply anti-corrosion coatings for harsh environments.

Plumbing & Manifolds

Multi-IBC systems require interconnecting plumbing. We design and install PVC, CPVC, or stainless steel manifolds that connect multiple IBCs in series or parallel. Includes valves for individual tank isolation.

Cage Modification

We cut, weld, and reshape steel cages for non-standard applications. This includes removing cage sections for access, adding mounting brackets for pumps or equipment, reinforcing for heavy loads, and creating hinged access doors.

Materials & Modifications Catalog

A comprehensive reference of the materials, components, and modifications available for custom IBC builds. Use this to spec your project or as a starting point for your consultation.

CategoryModificationMaterials UsedPrice RangeLead Time
CuttingHorizontal cut (half, 1/3, 2/3)N/A$25 - $501 day
CuttingCustom angled or multi-cutN/A$50 - $1001-2 days
PlumbingAdditional bulkhead fitting (each)PP or SS bulkhead, EPDM gasket$30 - $751 day
PlumbingSight glass installationPolycarbonate tube, brass fittings$75 - $1501-2 days
PlumbingMulti-IBC manifoldPVC/CPVC pipe, ball valves$150 - $5002-5 days
PlumbingOverflow/breather ventPP fitting, screen filter$25 - $501 day
PaintingUV-blocking bottle coatExterior latex or epoxy paint$50 - $1001-2 days
PaintingCage powder coatingPolyester powder coat$100 - $2003-5 days
PaintingCustom color cage spray paintIndustrial enamel spray$50 - $1001-2 days
CageSection removal / access doorSteel hinges, latches$75 - $1501-2 days
CageEquipment mounting bracketsSteel brackets, welded$50 - $1001-2 days
CageReinforcement / cross-bracingSteel tubing, welded$75 - $1502-3 days
ElectricalPump mounting and wiring12V or 120V pump, wiring, switch$100 - $3002-3 days
ElectricalHeating element installationInline heater, thermostat$200 - $5003-5 days
AssemblyBell siphon (aquaponics)PVC pipe, fittings$50 - $1001 day
AssemblyComplete system assemblyAll componentsProject-dependent3-10 days

Prices are approximate and may vary based on project complexity, material costs, and quantity. Contact us for a firm quote on your specific project.

Custom Build Case Studies

Real projects we have built for real customers. Each case study details the challenge, the solution, the modifications performed, and the outcome.

Urban Farm Aquaponics System (4 IBCs)

Urban farming cooperative, Salt Lake City

Challenge

The cooperative needed a scalable aquaponics system that could produce leafy greens and tilapia year-round in a small greenhouse. Budget was limited and they needed a system that volunteers with no plumbing experience could maintain.

Solution

We designed a 4-IBC system: two fish tanks (360 gallons total), one grow bed, and one sump/filtration tank. All four IBCs are interconnected with 2" PVC manifolds with isolation valves so any single tank can be serviced without shutting down the entire system. Bell siphons in the grow bed provide automatic flood-and-drain cycles.

Outcome: The system has been running for 18 months and produces approximately 200 heads of lettuce per month plus 40-50 lbs of tilapia per quarter. Total build cost was $1,800 including all four IBCs, plumbing, pumps, and grow media. Comparable commercial aquaponics systems start at $8,000+.

Modifications

  • Custom cutting (2/3 height fish tanks, 1/3 height grow bed)
  • Multiple bulkhead fittings for interconnect plumbing
  • 2" PVC manifold with 4 ball valves
  • Bell siphon assembly in grow bed
  • Pump mounting bracket welded to cage
  • UV-blocking paint on all 4 bottles
  • Cage-mounted equipment shelf for fish feeder and air pump

Mobile Equipment Wash Station

Heavy equipment rental company, West Valley City

Challenge

The company needed a portable wash station that could be loaded onto a flatbed trailer and deployed to construction sites to clean equipment before it is returned to the yard. The system needed to include hot water capability and wastewater capture to comply with site stormwater permits.

Solution

We built a dual-IBC system: one 275-gallon clean water supply tank and one 275-gallon wastewater capture tank. A 120V pressure washer draws from the clean water tank, and a collection mat with berms routes dirty water to a sump pump that fills the wastewater tank. An inline propane heater provides hot water on demand.

Outcome: The company has deployed the wash station to over 100 job sites in its first year. It has eliminated the need to rent commercial wash trailers ($200-400/day) and has paid for itself in under 3 months. Total build cost was $2,400 including both IBCs and all components.

Modifications

  • Clean water IBC: cam lock outlet, breather vent, fill port with debris screen
  • Wastewater IBC: cam lock inlet, vent, sight glass for level monitoring
  • Steel frame platform welded to both IBC pallets for trailer mounting
  • Pressure washer mounting bracket with vibration isolators
  • Propane inline heater mounting and plumbing
  • Hose reel bracket welded to cage
  • 50-foot high-pressure hose with spray gun

Biodiesel Production Setup (3 IBCs)

Homesteader, Tooele County

Challenge

A homesteader with a collection of diesel farm equipment wanted to produce biodiesel from waste vegetable oil (WVO) collected from local restaurants. He needed a reaction vessel, a wash tank, and a storage tank for finished fuel, all at a budget-friendly price.

Solution

We configured three IBCs for the three stages of biodiesel production. The reaction IBC has a bottom-drain valve for glycerin separation, an agitator mount, and a temperature sensor port. The wash tank has a bottom drain and multiple water inlet ports for the wash cycle. The storage tank has a fuel-compatible ball valve and a sight glass.

Outcome: The homesteader now produces approximately 200 gallons of biodiesel per month from WVO, saving an estimated $500-700/month in diesel fuel costs. Total build cost for all three IBCs and modifications was $1,600. The system has been operating reliably for over two years.

Modifications

  • Reaction IBC: bottom-drain ball valve (SS), agitator bracket, temp sensor port, sight glass
  • Wash IBC: bottom-drain valve, 3x water inlet ports at different heights, overflow
  • Storage IBC: SS ball valve, sight glass, breather vent with desiccant filter
  • All three cages painted with anti-corrosion coating
  • Interconnect plumbing with isolation valves between each stage
  • 2" cam lock fittings on all tanks for pump hookup

Fertilizer Blending Station

Agricultural supply dealer, Cache Valley

Challenge

A farm supply dealer needed a cost-effective way to custom-blend liquid fertilizers (NPK solutions) for their farmer customers. Each blend requires precise mixing of 2-4 liquid concentrate inputs, plus water, into a final product IBC that the farmer takes home.

Solution

We built a 5-IBC blending station: four input tanks (one for each concentrate: nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients) gravity-feed through metered valves into a single mixing/output IBC positioned below. The mixing IBC has an agitator mount for a portable mixer and a graduated sight glass for volume measurement.

Outcome: The blending station has been in operation for one year and produces 50-100 custom blends per month during the growing season. The dealer estimates it cost 80% less than a purpose-built chemical blending system and allows them to offer a service that differentiates them from competitors.

Modifications

  • 4x input IBCs: elevated on 24" steel stands, gravity-feed valves with flow control
  • Mixing IBC: agitator bracket, graduated sight glass (10-gallon increments), bottom drain with ball valve
  • Steel frame rack fabricated to hold all 5 IBCs in a compact footprint
  • PVC manifold connecting all 4 input tanks to mixing IBC
  • Splash guard on mixing IBC top opening
  • Label holders on all cages for product identification

Emergency Water Supply Trailer

Rural fire department, Summit County

Challenge

A rural volunteer fire department needed a fast-deployable water supply for areas beyond the reach of fire hydrants. The system needed to hold at least 1,000 gallons, be towable by a standard pickup truck, and deliver water at pressures sufficient for fire suppression hoses.

Solution

We configured four 275-gallon IBCs on a custom-welded steel trailer frame, plumbed in parallel to a gas-powered fire pump. The system delivers 1,100 gallons of water through 1.5" fire hoses at 60+ PSI. Each IBC has an individual shutoff valve and the system includes a quick-fill port for reloading from any water source.

Outcome: The trailer has been deployed to 15+ wildfire and structure fire responses in its first season. Total build cost was $4,200 including trailer, IBCs, pump, hoses, and all fabrication. A comparable commercial fire water trailer costs $15,000-25,000.

Modifications

  • 4x IBCs with reinforced cage mounting to trailer frame
  • Welded steel trailer frame with tandem axle, rated for 12,000 lbs
  • 2" stainless steel manifold connecting all 4 tanks in parallel
  • Gas-powered fire pump mounting with vibration isolators
  • Quick-fill port with cam lock and strainer for refilling from ponds, streams, or tanker trucks
  • 2x 1.5" fire hose outlets with ball valves
  • All bottles painted red for visibility, UV protection

Craft Brewery Mobile CIP System

Microbrewery, Park City

Challenge

A growing microbrewery needed a Clean-In-Place (CIP) system for sanitizing their fermentation tanks, bright tanks, and packaging line. Commercial CIP systems were quoted at $12,000-20,000, which exceeded their equipment budget.

Solution

We built a 2-IBC CIP system: one for hot caustic cleaning solution and one for hot sanitizer (peracetic acid). Both IBCs are equipped with inline heaters to maintain fluid temperature, and a variable-speed pump circulates the cleaning solution through the brewery equipment via sanitary tri-clamp connections.

Outcome: The CIP system has been in daily use for 8 months and has dramatically reduced the brewery's cleaning time (from 3 hours to 45 minutes per tank). Total build cost was $3,800 for both IBCs, heaters, pump, and all plumbing. The brewery estimates they saved over $10,000 compared to a commercial CIP skid.

Modifications

  • Both IBCs: stainless steel ball valves, tri-clamp ports for sanitary connection
  • Inline electric heater installation (4,500W, 240V) on each tank
  • Digital temperature controllers with thermowells
  • Variable-speed pump (5 GPM) with stainless steel head
  • Sanitary tri-clamp plumbing throughout
  • Cages powder-coated white for brewery aesthetic
  • Drain ports for easy solution changeover
  • Chemical-resistant PTFE gaskets on all connections

Engineering Consultation Process

Complex custom builds benefit from a structured engineering consultation. Here is how we work with you to turn your concept into a functional, safe, and cost-effective solution.

1

Discovery Consultation

We start by understanding your application in depth. What liquids or materials are involved? What temperatures and pressures? What flow rates? What are the spatial constraints? Do any regulations apply? This conversation is free and usually takes 30-60 minutes by phone or in person at our facility.

2

Design & Engineering

Based on the discovery, we develop a detailed build specification. For complex projects, this includes a diagram showing IBC layout, plumbing connections, valve locations, and equipment mounting points. We verify chemical compatibility, structural loads, and regulatory compliance at this stage.

3

Quote & Approval

We provide a detailed, itemized quote covering all materials, labor, and testing. The quote includes a timeline from approval to delivery. You review, ask questions, and approve before we order materials or begin work. No surprises, no hidden costs.

4

Build, Test & Deliver

Our shop team fabricates your custom IBC system. All plumbing is pressure-tested. All welds are inspected. Electrical components are tested for proper function. We deliver the completed system and provide hands-on setup guidance or full on-site installation depending on complexity.

Pricing Estimate Ranges

Every custom project is unique, but these ranges give you a ballpark for budgeting purposes. Actual quotes are based on your specific requirements.

Project TypePrice RangeTypical TimelineComplexity
Simple cut + single valve add$150 - $3001-2 daysLow
Garden bed / rain barrel conversion$150 - $3501-3 daysLow
Single IBC aquaponics system$400 - $8003-5 daysMedium
Chemical mixing station (single IBC)$300 - $7002-5 daysMedium
Mobile wash station (dual IBC)$1,500 - $3,0001-2 weeksMedium-High
Multi-IBC aquaponics (3-4 IBCs)$1,500 - $3,5001-2 weeksHigh
Biodiesel production setup (3 IBCs)$1,200 - $2,5001-2 weeksHigh
Emergency water trailer (4 IBCs)$3,000 - $6,0002-3 weeksHigh
Brewery CIP system$2,500 - $5,0002-3 weeksHigh
Custom industrial system (5+ IBCs)$5,000 - $15,000+3-6 weeksVery High

All prices include the base IBC(s), all modifications, testing, and local delivery within the Wasatch Front. Prices do not include pumps, heaters, or other third-party equipment unless specifically noted in your quote.

From Concept to Delivery

Here is the typical timeline for a custom IBC project, from your first inquiry to the finished product arriving at your location.

Day 1-2

Initial Inquiry & Discovery Call

You contact us with your idea. We schedule a discovery call (phone, video, or in-person) to understand your requirements. We ask about your application, volumes, liquids, temperatures, pressures, spatial constraints, and budget.

Day 3-5

Design Specification & Quote

We develop a build specification based on the discovery call. For complex projects, we create a diagram. We source pricing for any special components and prepare a detailed, itemized quote with timeline.

Day 5-7

Customer Review & Approval

You review the design and quote. We answer questions and make revisions if needed. Once you approve, we collect the deposit (if applicable) and order any materials not already in stock.

Day 7-21

Fabrication & Assembly

Our shop builds your custom IBC system. Simple projects take 1-3 days; complex multi-IBC systems take 1-2 weeks. We send progress updates for large projects. All plumbing is pressure-tested and all welds are inspected during build.

Day 21-25

Testing & Quality Check

The completed system undergoes final testing: pressure tests on all plumbing, functional tests on all valves and electrical components, and a visual inspection for quality. Any issues are corrected before delivery.

Day 25-28

Delivery & Setup Support

We deliver your finished custom IBC to your location. Local delivery within the Wasatch Front is included in most project quotes. We provide setup guidance, operating instructions, and post-delivery support by phone.

Timelines above represent a typical medium-complexity project. Simple modifications (cuts, single valve adds) can be completed in 1-3 days total. Very complex multi-IBC systems may take 4-6 weeks from concept to delivery.

Safety Testing & Certification

Custom modifications change the original design of the IBC. We take safety seriously and test every custom build to ensure it performs reliably and safely for its intended use.

Pressure Testing

All plumbing connections, bulkhead fittings, and valve assemblies on custom builds are pressure-tested at 1.5-2x the expected operating pressure. For standard liquid storage, this means testing at 3-5 PSI for a minimum of 30 minutes with zero drop. Higher-pressure systems (pumped delivery) are tested proportionally higher.

Leak Verification

After pressure testing, we fill the system with water and visually inspect every connection point, weld, and fitting for leaks. The system is left standing overnight for final verification. Only systems with zero leaks are approved for delivery.

Structural Load Testing

For custom trailer builds and elevated systems, we verify that the welded frame and mounting points can support the full loaded weight with a safety factor of at least 1.5x. This includes simulating dynamic loads (vibration, acceleration) for trailer-mounted systems.

Chemical Compatibility Verification

Before building any system intended for chemical storage or processing, we verify HDPE compatibility with all liquids that will contact the bottle. We consult manufacturer chemical resistance charts and, when necessary, perform coupon testing (soaking HDPE samples in the target chemical for 7 days).

Electrical Safety (Where Applicable)

Custom builds with electrical components (pumps, heaters, controllers) are wired per NEC standards. GFCI protection is required for all outdoor or wet-location electrical connections. We use UL-listed components wherever available and verify proper grounding.

Documentation

Every custom build ships with a build specification document listing all modifications, materials used, test results, and operating guidelines. For complex systems, we include a simple operating manual with startup/shutdown procedures, maintenance schedule, and troubleshooting tips.

Maintaining Your Custom IBC

Custom-modified IBCs have additional maintenance considerations beyond standard totes. Follow these guidelines to keep your system running at peak performance.

Plumbing & Fittings

Inspect monthly; replace gaskets annually

  • Check all bulkhead fittings for weeping or drips
  • Inspect PVC joints for cracks or discoloration (UV damage)
  • Verify ball valve operation (open/close fully, check for leaks)
  • Replace EPDM gaskets on bulkheads annually or when dripping
  • Flush sight glasses quarterly to prevent buildup that obscures readings
  • Check cam lock connections for wear on the cam arms

Pumps & Electrical

Inspect monthly; service annually

  • Check pump flow rate against baseline (reduced flow indicates wear or clogging)
  • Inspect power cords for cuts, abrasion, or heat damage
  • Verify GFCI protection is functional (press test button monthly)
  • Clean pump intake strainer to prevent clogging
  • Check thermostat calibration on heating elements with external thermometer
  • Inspect wire connections for corrosion (especially outdoor systems)

Cage & Frame Modifications

Inspect quarterly

  • Check welded brackets and mounting points for cracks or loosening
  • Inspect cage paint/powder coating for chips or corrosion spots
  • Touch up any bare metal with zinc-rich spray paint to prevent rust
  • Verify hinged access doors latch securely and hinges are not binding
  • Check cage-to-pallet connection points for stability
  • For trailer builds: inspect frame welds, axle, and hitch monthly

Aquaponics Systems

Daily monitoring; monthly deep maintenance

  • Test water pH daily (target 6.8-7.2 for most systems)
  • Test ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels weekly
  • Clean pump intake weekly to prevent fish waste buildup
  • Inspect bell siphon for consistent flood-and-drain cycling
  • Remove dead plant material from grow bed to prevent decay
  • Check fish health daily; remove dead fish immediately
  • Clean grow bed media annually (rinse with system water, not tap water)

More Ideas for Custom IBCs

These are just a few of the creative applications our customers have dreamed up. If you can imagine it, we can probably build it.

Hydroponic grow systems
Maple sap collection tanks
Craft brewery mobile units
Livestock watering stations
Firefighting water reserves
Pressure washing rigs
Rainwater harvesting systems
Composting tea brewers
Mobile hand-wash stations
Dye bath tanks (textiles)
Fish transport tanks
Emergency water supply
Dust suppression units
Greywater recycling
Ice bath cold plunge
Wine & cider fermenters

Have a Project in Mind?

No project is too simple or too complex. Tell us what you're trying to accomplish and we'll design a custom IBC solution that fits your needs and budget. Free consultation, no obligation.

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