Steel Drum Specifications
Complete guide to steel drums, their specifications, grades, and applications in industrial manufacturing.
Steel Drum Types & Grades
Understanding different steel drum types, gauges, and metallurgical specifications
HDPE Drums
High-Density Polyethylene drums are the most common type, offering excellent chemical resistance and durability.
Characteristics:
- • Excellent chemical resistance
- • Temperature range: -40°F to 180°F
- • FDA approved for food contact
- • Recyclable and reusable
- • Lightweight yet strong
Common Uses:
- • Food and beverage storage
- • Chemical storage
- • Water treatment chemicals
- • Industrial lubricants
Polypropylene Drums
Polypropylene drums offer superior chemical resistance and are ideal for corrosive materials and high-temperature applications.
Characteristics:
- • Superior chemical resistance
- • Temperature range: -20°F to 200°F
- • Stress crack resistant
- • Autoclavable
- • Low moisture absorption
Common Uses:
- • Corrosive chemicals
- • Acids and bases
- • Laboratory applications
- • Pharmaceutical storage
Specialty Drums
Specialized drums designed for specific applications including conductive, antistatic, and UV-resistant variants.
Types:
- • Conductive drums (static control)
- • UV-resistant drums
- • Antistatic drums
- • Barrier layer drums
- • Fluorinated drums
Common Uses:
- • Flammable liquids
- • Outdoor storage
- • Sensitive chemicals
- • Aerospace applications
Standard Drum Sizes
Common plastic drum sizes and their specifications
| Size | Capacity | Dimensions (H x D) | Weight (Empty) | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 Gallon | 57 Liters | 24" x 16" | 8-12 lbs | Laboratory, small batch storage |
| 30 Gallon | 114 Liters | 28" x 19" | 15-20 lbs | Medium volume storage, chemicals |
| 55 Gallon | 208 Liters | 35" x 23" | 20-30 lbs | Industrial standard, bulk storage |
| 85 Gallon | 322 Liters | 42" x 26" | 35-45 lbs | Large volume storage, food grade |
Drum Closure Types
Understanding different closure systems and their applications
Tight Head Drums
Permanently sealed top with small openings (typically 2" bung holes) for filling and dispensing.
Features:
- • 2" bung holes with caps
- • Threaded openings
- • Tamper-evident seals
- • Various gasket options
Best For:
- • Liquids and powders
- • Chemicals
- • Food products
- • Long-term storage
Open Head Drums
Removable lid (head) provides full opening access for easy filling and cleaning of viscous materials.
Features:
- • Removable lid
- • Lever-lock ring closure
- • Full opening access
- • Easy cleaning
Best For:
- • Thick pastes
- • Viscous liquids
- • Solid materials
- • Frequent access needed
UN Rating System
Understanding UN ratings for safe transportation of hazardous materials
What are UN Ratings?
UN ratings certify that drums meet United Nations standards for packaging and transporting hazardous materials. These ratings ensure safety during shipping and handling.
Common UN Rating Format:
UN1H1/Y1.8/100Packing Groups
Packing Group X
High danger substances requiring the strongest packaging
Packing Group Y
Medium danger substances with moderate packaging requirements
Packing Group Z
Low danger substances with basic packaging requirements
Important Note:
Always verify that your drum's UN rating matches your specific chemical's requirements before use or transportation.
Maintenance & Safety Guidelines
Proper care and handling for maximum drum lifespan and safety
Regular Inspection
- • Check for cracks or stress marks
- • Inspect closure integrity
- • Verify gasket condition
- • Test for chemical compatibility
- • Monitor UV exposure effects
Proper Storage
- • Store in cool, dry locations
- • Avoid direct sunlight
- • Maintain stable temperatures
- • Ensure proper ventilation
- • Keep away from heat sources
Safe Handling
- • Use appropriate lifting equipment
- • Wear personal protective equipment
- • Follow material safety guidelines
- • Train personnel properly
- • Maintain handling logs
Need Help Choosing the Right Drums?
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