Which Steel Drum Should I Use?

Steel drums have many different uses; they can be used for storing, shipping, or manufacturing. In addition to the different ways they're used, there are a large variety of steel drums to choose from. There are carbon and stainless steel, closed head and open head, and lined and unlined, just to name a few. The way you're going to use the steel drum is going to determine which one you need to use. Read on to find out the different types of steel drums that are available and what you should use them for.

Closed Head Drum vs. Open Head Drum

A closed head drum is primarily used for liquid products. These drums are best suited for liquids because they have a cover that doesn't come off. There is an opening for pouring, but the liquids are safe inside the drum. For this reason, closed head drums are not typically used for solids.

An open head drum is best used for solids. These drums have a lid that allows easy access in and out of the drum; the lid is either a bolt ring or a lever latch.

Carbon Steel vs. Stainless Steel

Steel drums are made from two different types of steel; carbon and stainless. While both are durable options, they have one main difference. Stainless steel drums are more chemical resistant than carbon steel. If you'll be using aggressive chemicals or a wide variety of chemicals, stainless steel is the best option.

Lined vs. Unlined

Steel drums can be lined or unlined; it depends on what materials the drum is holding. If a drum is unlined, it might be because you're transporting or storing products such as petroleum or sand. A stainless steel drum could go unlined because it won't rust. A carbon steel drum would benefit from lining because the lining makes it chemical resistant and prevents the drum from rusting.

UN Rating

A UN rating refers to regulations and standards that are set out by the United Nations. The UN standards ensure that hazardous chemicals and materials will be packaged in a suitable and safe manner. There are steel drums available that have a UN rated label, so if you will be working with hazardous chemicals and materials, it's important you use this type of drum.

As an individual or small business, you might not know what type of steel drum you should use when shipping or storing. By following this guide and talking to places like The Barrel Company for more information, you can easily determine which steel drum to use for every situation.

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