Find your connection
Which thread does my IBC have?
The name encodes the size: S = buttress thread (coarse), 60 = outer diameter in mm, 6 = pitch in mm. Once you get it, you can find your connection yourself.
S60×6 — by far the most common outlet thread. When in doubt, measure the stub’s outer diameter with a caliper.
Quick check: measure the outer diameter of the thread stub and pick:
Canonical reference
IBC threads at a glance
| Thread | Outer ⌀ (D1) | Pitch (P1) | equals | Type | Prevalence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S60×6 | 55–62 mm | 6 mm | DN50 · 2″ | coarse | standard, almost all makes |
| S75×6 | 70–77 mm | 6 mm | — | coarse | rare |
| S80×6 | 74–81 mm | 6 mm | — | coarse | rare |
| S100×8 | 97–100 mm | 8 mm | DN80 · 3″ | coarse | large tanks |
| 2″ BSP | ≈59 mm | 2,31 mm | 2″ fein | fine | all except Schütz |
| Camlock 2″ | 63–64 mm | — | 2⅛″ BSP | fine | coupling, short lip |
Compatibility
What fits what?
Row = the thread you have. Column = the connection you want. The colour tells you whether it fits directly, needs an adapter, or is unusual.
| have ↓ / want → | Garden hose ¾″ | 1″ female | 2″ female | Camlock | Ball valve 2″ | IBC → IBC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S60×6 | direct | direct | direct | direct | direct | kit |
| S100×8 | adapter | adapter | direct | adapter | direct | kit |
| 2″ BSP | direct | direct | direct | direct | fine thr. | adapter |
| Camlock 2″ | adapter | adapter | adapter | coupling | unusual | direct |
Unsure which thread you have? Get matching accessories & complete IBCs offered by vetted suppliers.
Request quotesIdentify the make
Schütz, Mauser or Werit?
It is not only the nominal size that matters, but thread length and flat spacing. As a rule of thumb:
| Make | typ. outlet thread | How to spot it | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schütz | 2⅛″ Feingewinde ~62 mm | white cap, short thread | long BSP adapters often do NOT fit |
| Mauser | S60×6 / 2″ ~58 mm | flat spacing ~14 mm | standard S60×6 adapter usually fine |
| Werit | 2⅛″ ~62 mm | flat spacing ~14 mm | dome lid may be S160×7 (differs) |
| Roth / No-Name | variiert | no clear marker | measure to be sure |
Repair
Replace the outlet tap
Which type fits – and how to swap the tap in four steps. All types fit the same outlet thread.
| Type | Tightness | Pressure | Price | best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Butterfly valve | medium · tends to drip | low | € | occasional draining |
| Ball valverecommended | high · tight | high | €€ | continuous use, irrigation, pressure |
| Outlet tap / hose barb | medium | low | € | hose connection |
Close the top
Lid & gasket – which size?
| Size | Thread | Outer ⌀ | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| DN150 | S165×7 | ≈163 mm | ~90% of cases · often needs an IBC key |
| DN225 | S245×6 | ≈242 mm | large variant |
| Werit | S160×7 | ≈158 mm | special case (differs) |
Gasket by medium: EPDM for water & rainwater (food-grade, but not oil/fuel resistant) · Viton/FKM for oil, diesel and chemicals. Always replace the old flange gasket when changing the tap.
Application
IBC as a rainwater tank
The full chain from roof to pump – each component has its own accessory.
Safety
Can an IBC take pressure?
No – an IBC is not a pressure vessel. With a closed lid plus pump filling or heating, the bladder can deform or burst. Use a vented lid or one with a relief valve. The static water pressure at the outlet of a full 1000-litre IBC, by contrast, is low at about 0.1 bar.
Protect
Protect from sun & algae
White, translucent IBCs let light through → photosynthesis → algae. Blocking light helps – four ways compared:
| Option | Cost | Effort | Algae protection | Looks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Opaque cover / film | € | low | very good | functional |
| Wooden cladding | €€€ | high | very good | attractive |
| UV paint (opaque) | € | medium | good | subtle |
| All-black IBC | €€ | swap | very good | functional |
Overview
Spare parts – patch or replace?
The most common wear parts and where to find them on this page:
| Part | typical fault | Section |
|---|---|---|
| Outlet tap | drips / sticks | Replace tap |
| Gasket | leaking / brittle | Lid & gasket |
| Lid | lost / brittle | Lid & gasket |
| Adapter | wrong thread | Threads & adapters |
Rule of thumb: Single part broken → retrofitting almost always pays. Bladder cracked or UN approval needed → request a complete IBC.
Frequently asked
Answered briefly
What thread does an IBC tank have at the outlet?
Most commonly S60×6 – a coarse buttress thread about 60 mm in outer diameter with a 6 mm pitch, equal to DN50 / 2 inch. Rarer are S75×6, S80×6 and S100×8 (DN80) on large tanks, plus 2″ BSP fine thread. The safest way is to measure the stub’s outer diameter with a caliper.
What does the designation S60x6 mean on an IBC?
S stands for buttress (coarse) thread, 60 for the nominal outer diameter in millimetres and 6 for the pitch, i.e. the distance from one thread to the next. S60×6 equals DN50 / 2 inch and is by far the most common outlet size on IBC containers.
Which adapter fits my IBC outlet?
That depends on the existing thread (usually S60×6) and the connection you want. Common adapters reduce S60×6 to a 3/4″ or 1″ garden hose, Gardena click system, Camlock, Storz or GEKA. Measure the stub’s outer diameter first; the compatibility matrix then shows the right reducing adapter.
How do I replace the outlet tap on an IBC?
Empty the tank, loosen the upper cage struts, unscrew the old tap counter-clockwise with a pipe wrench, clean the sealing seat, fit a new flange gasket (never reuse the old one), screw on the new tap hand-tight and tighten it with the wrench. Determine the thread size first.
Butterfly or ball valve – which is better for the IBC?
The standard butterfly tap is cheap and fine for occasional draining but tends to drip. The ball valve is more robust and tighter and is recommended for continuous use, irrigation or pressure. Both types fit the same outlet thread, so they are interchangeable without modification.
What size is the IBC lid on top?
The dome lid comes in two standard sizes: DN150 with an S165×7 thread and about 163 mm outer diameter covers roughly 90 percent of cases, DN225 with S245×6 and about 242 mm is the large version. Werit differs with S160×7. DN150 can often only be opened with an IBC key.
How do I connect two IBC containers?
The tanks are coupled at the outlet thread (S60×6/DN50 or DN80) via a connection kit: a base module links two IBCs, each further tank needs an extension. Place the IBCs side by side, not stacked unsecured, and include a vent for pressure equalisation when connecting.
Can an IBC container withstand overpressure?
No. The inner bladder is not designed for overpressure. With a closed lid plus pump filling or heating, the tank can deform or burst. Use a vented lid or one with a pressure-relief valve. The static water pressure at the outlet of a full 1000-litre IBC, by contrast, is low at about 0.1 bar.
IBC container accessories
IBC tanks and tank accessories: how to find the right IBC container accessories
IBC tanks are an ideal solution for storing and transporting all kinds of liquids efficiently. Whether for rainwater or industrial applications: the right IBC container accessories make handling easier and extend the tank’s service life. Here you’ll learn which variants exist and how to buy accessories at a good price. We also show how tank accessories improve safety and why an IBC rainwater tank stays reliable even in changeable weather.
The right accessories for your IBC tank
An IBC tank (intermediate bulk container) is versatile and robust. To get the most out of it, you need matching IBC accessories. Only the right connection, for instance via an IBC adapter, makes handling the container efficient. A seal prevents liquid from escaping, while a venting system regulates pressure.
If you want to retrofit your IBC with affordable accessories, you’ll find plenty of options online. Whether ball valve, butterfly valve, union nut or IBC connector – the wide selection makes it easy to find the right part for every purpose. Equipped with the right accessories, an IBC is especially practical as a water tank around the house and garden.
2. The right connection: from S60x6 and S100x8 to fine and coarse thread
A stable connection is one of the most important components of IBC accessories. Many IBC tanks use standard threads such as S60x6 or S100x8, distinguishing between fine thread and coarse thread. If you need an outlet spout with a male thread, pay attention to the matching inner diameter. An IBC adapter S60x6 coarse thread, for example, lets you connect a hose smoothly.
Adapters are often offered in brass or plastic, e.g. PE or PP. A 1-inch or DN 50 connection suits many applications, especially with quick couplings such as Gardena or Geka. The result is a high-quality, robust setup that works just as well in the garden as in professional environments.
3. Ball valve, butterfly valve and outlet tap: controlling the flow at the IBC
To control the flow, most people fit a ball valve as the outlet tap on their IBC. An IBC ball valve matching S60x6 opens and closes the tank smoothly and seals reliably. Alternatively, a butterfly valve or ball outlet valve offers similar benefits and is also available with a 1-inch male thread.
For garden use these taps are a proven choice: robust, with an effortless flow. Whether water or other liquids – the right outlet fitting ensures safe filling and draining of the IBC tank.
4. Lid, seal and adapter: securing the tank
A reliable lid and an intact seal are essential for every IBC tank. To protect the system against dirt, use an IBC lid filter – it keeps leaves and larger particles out of the water tank, which is particularly useful for an IBC rainwater tank.
Camlock systems or push-fit couplings offer maximum security at the connection. A union nut allows precise adjustment of fine threads. Such adapters are easy and cheap to buy online, tailoring the IBC perfectly to your needs.
5. Practical extras: gooseneck, hose connector and thermal covers
A gooseneck or swivelling spout makes filling and dispensing much easier, especially when connecting a garden hose. Combined with a hose nozzle and a Gardena or Geka hose connector you get a well-thought-out water tank system. If you value clean, uncomplicated flow, choose a ball valve in brass or plastic.
Thermal covers protect the IBC rainwater tank from extreme temperatures. Usually made of polyethylene, they shield the tank against frost and intense sunlight, keeping the contents usable in wind and weather – a real advantage in winter.
6. Tips for choosing the right IBC adapter
An IBC adapter connects outlet fittings, hoses or pumps to the tank. Depending on manufacturer and series, different thread types may be required. If you need an S100x8 connection with DN 80, a comprehensive IBC range will include the right reducers. What matters is whether fine or coarse thread is required.
Make sure the adapter is compatible with your IBC and screws easily onto the male or female thread. A matching ¾-inch or 1-inch thread lets you attach a hose or outlet fitting without leaks.
Valves
Valves regulate the flow at the IBC tank. Ball valve or butterfly valve – the right valve prevents uncontrolled leakage and gives you control when filling or draining.
IBC drain tap
The IBC drain tap lets you draw liquid from the tank in a controlled way. It usually screws directly onto the S60x6 thread and can be extended with a matching hose nozzle to attach a garden hose.
IBC lid
An IBC lid protects the tank from dust and dirt. Models with an integrated filter are particularly useful for keeping contaminants out and safeguarding water quality.
Seals
Seals are essential to keep the IBC tank tight. Between adapter and container or in the lid – matching EPDM or other seals prevent leaks and increase safety.
Electric drum pumps
Electric drum pumps make transferring larger volumes easy. Connected to the IBC, they move water or other media quickly and efficiently into other containers or lines.
Hand pumps
Hand pumps are a simple way to draw smaller quantities from the IBC tank. They work manually, need no power supply and are ideal for occasional use.
Transfer aids
Transfer aids such as goosenecks and hose nozzles support controlled liquid transfer. They minimise spills and drips – important for sensitive or valuable media.
Filling sets
Filling sets often bundle several components such as hose, nozzle and adapter to get the IBC ready for use quickly. They let you portion liquids safely into smaller containers.
Vent caps
Vent caps equalise the pressure inside the tank and prevent a vacuum from forming in the IBC, ensuring smooth flow when dispensing liquid.
Dust caps
Dust caps protect open threads and connections from dirt and contamination – useful whenever the tank is out of use for longer periods.
Tank connectors
Tank connectors link several IBC tanks together to increase capacity. Multiple tanks can then be filled or drained in parallel.
Reducers
Reducers adapt thread sizes, e.g. from S100x8 to S60x6, and are essential for compatibility. They come in various designs and materials.
Drum plugs
Drum plugs securely close unused openings on the IBC. They keep dirt out and liquid in whenever certain connections are not in use.
All in all, it pays to equip your IBC with the right container accessories for reliable storage and controlled flow. Check whether your IBC tank requires fine or coarse thread and choose compatible adapters. Buying accessories at the right price covers your needs comprehensively and keeps your IBC fully functional in wind and weather – as a rainwater tank or for other liquids, without restrictions and with a long service life.
The right accessories – from the right supplier
Whether a spare part, an adapter or a complete IBC: tell us what you need and we forward your request to suitable, vetted suppliers. Free and without obligation – interested suppliers contact you directly.
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