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Summary:- Steel drums are durable and long-lasting.
- Open head drums are better for solids, semi-solids and viscous substances.
- Closed head drums are better for liquids and low-viscosity fluids.
- Both types can be used to transport hazardous materials.
General Facts About Drum Containers
Steel drums belong to the general category of drum containers, one of the most frequently used container types worldwide. They are a commonplace fixture in warehouses, depots and other industrial environments. Like other containers, such as hazmat shipping boxes, drums are highly versatile and employed to transport nearly any product, from foodstuffs to dangerous goods. A typical drum container’s internal dimensions are standardized to 22.5" diameter by 33.5" height, granting them an internal volume of 13,320 cubic inches, or approximately 57.66 gallons (218 liters) of water if filled to the brim. However, drums are typically only filled to 55 gallons to prevent overfilling and leave enough headspace for liquids that expand when exposed to changing temperatures. Most drums on the market are either plastic or steel, and steel drums are usually made of either stainless steel or carbon steel. Although heavier than plastic, steel drums are valued for their durability, reusability and long service life, making them highly versatile and cost-effective. Specific custom shipping boxes can fit open head and closed head steel drums for transportation or long-term storage, such as overpack containers.Source: Suzi44 / Shutterstock.com
Open Head Steel Drums
An open head steel drum (1A2 drums or open top drums) features a fully removable top cover or lid. Open head steel drums do not possess hinged lids. Instead, the top cover is secured to the drum’s body with one of two typical locking mechanisms: a lever lock drum or a bolt ring. Both are UN (United Nations) and DOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) approved and are safe for industrial and transportation applications. An open head steel drum with the top cover removed gives you easy access to the contents, making them more convenient to fill and empty as needed. Learn How to Safely Store GasolineTypical Applications for Open Head Drums
Although you can use open head drums to transport liquids, they are best suited for semi-solid and fluid-like substances (e.g., sand, dirt, soil, gravel, etc.) due to the ease of operating the lid and the wide opening with the top cover removed. Unlike closed head drums, there is no need for specific equipment or apparatuses for filling and emptying an open head drum. If necessary, they can even be loaded or unloaded by hand. In addition, an open head drum is one of the only practical containers for the transportation of thick fluids and viscous substances (e.g., syrups, certain types of oils, glues, absorbents, some solvents). Such products cannot be reliably delivered through a pump or a piping system and would be challenging to remove from a closed head drum.Source: Room 76 / Shutterstock.com