55 gallon drum materials

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55 gallon drums are utilized throughout modern industry for storage and transport of various materials including solids and liquids. Because of the wide variety of materials used in these 55 gallon barrels, the materials involved are quite varied. In this brief article, we will discuss materials related to 55 gallon drums both from the standpoint of materials of construction as well as relationships to materials stored and transported.

Standard 55 gallon drums made of steel are utilized to store and transport industrial oils, coolant materials, water based solvents, isopropyl alcohol and such. When materials transported are corrosive such as caustic soda, for example, such steel drums are inadequate. Corrosive liquids are usually handled by 55 gallon plastic drums. Acids such as nitric acid fall under the same category. Solid powders and pellets such as those used in injection molding can be handled with an open head steel drum.

When it comes to high purity requirements such as food grade materials, stainless steel drums are the preferred choice. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant and hence acids in foods will not attack it. Additionally, it will not rust and so will protect the foods from contamination. 55 gallon plastic drums are generally made of polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride and even nylons. The general rule of thumb is that the material being handled should not be reactive with the material of construction of the container. Certain flammable materials such as isopropyl alcohol, acetone and methyl ethyl ketone are generally transported in standard metal steel drums without problems. When in doubt, consult a chemist or the drum manufacturer regarding the compatibility of a specific drum material with the specific material being handled.