Omar Khalid
55-gallon drums are used for the storage and transportation of various products, including food, beverages, and hazardous materials. They are available in different materials, such as plastic, stainless steel, and fibre, each with its own advantages and suitable for different applications. For instance, open-head plastic drums are versatile and suitable for shipping solid food products, while closed-head plastic drums are ideal for liquids due to their non-removable tops. Stainless steel drums are FDA-compliant and suitable for food-grade applications, while also being UN-rated for hazardous chemical storage. The versatility of these drums makes them a popular choice for individuals and businesses alike, with some companies opting to donate used drums to charities for repurposing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 55 gallons |
| Material | Plastic, Steel |
| Grade | Food-grade, Non-food grade |
| Uses | Storing liquids and solids, Shipping, Rainwater collection, Brewing beer, wine, mead, and cider |
| Features | Open-head, Closed-head, Reconditioned, FDA-compliant, UN-rated, Lightweight |
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Food storage
Food-grade 55-gallon plastic drums are a safe option for long-term food storage. They are made from materials that do not leach into the food products they contain and are FDA-approved for food contact. This makes them ideal for storing liquids and solids related to the food and pharmaceutical industries.
When using a 55-gallon drum for food storage, it is important to ensure proper cleaning after each use. This includes sanitizing the drum and removing any residue. One way to clean the drum is by pouring a chlorine solution into it. Additionally, it is recommended to keep the drum away from direct sunlight and store it in a dry, temperature-controlled location to prevent moisture and humidity.
To further protect the integrity of the stored food, the drum should be sealed tightly to prevent dust, dirt, and other hazardous particles and bacteria from entering. The lid should be properly secured when the drum is not in use, and the bung, which is the part of the drum that opens, should be screwed tightly to prevent leaks.
For those looking to store grains, it is recommended to use smaller mylar bags with oxygen absorbers inside the 55-gallon drum. This helps prevent insect eggs from hatching due to the lack of oxygen and allows for the consumption of smaller quantities at a time, reducing the risk of insect infestation.
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Cider brewing
First, source a food-grade 55-gallon plastic drum. These drums are readily available and can be purchased online or from local suppliers. The cost can vary, but some users have reported finding them for as low as $15, while others have paid around $30 or $69 each. It is important to ensure the drum is food-grade to avoid any chemical leakage that could contaminate your cider.
Once you have your drum, you will need to prepare it for brewing. Clean the drum thoroughly with hot water and a cleaning agent like Oxyclean. You can also use iodophor as a sanitiser. Ensure that you have a secure lid for your drum. Plastic drums usually come with large lids and sealing rings with good gaskets, but you may need to cut a custom lid using a saw or angle grinder. Consider adding a burp valve to the top to release pressure.
Now, it's time to make your cider. For cider, you will need apples, and lots of them! You can either buy apple juice or press your own apples. If you want to press your own, you will need access to an apple press, which you can often borrow or rent. You will also need yeast to start the fermentation process. You can add other ingredients to flavour your cider, such as cherry concentrate for a cherry apple cider.
Fermentation is a critical step in cider-making. Find a cool place to store your drum, like a basement, to maintain a consistent temperature. Too much heat can ruin your cider. You may need to invest in a cooling system if your area gets too warm. Ensure your drum is off the floor and has a spigot at the bottom for easy draining. During fermentation, be cautious when looking into the barrel, as the high levels of CO2 can be dangerous.
Finally, enjoy your cider! A 55-gallon drum will produce about 40-45 gallons of delicious cider, so you will have plenty to share with friends and family. Remember to store your cider in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality.
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Dilute acids/bases
55-gallon plastic drums are used for various purposes, including storing liquids like water, vinegar, and acids/bases. While some of these drums are food-grade, others are not, and it is important to ascertain their intended use before utilizing them for any purpose.
Now, if you intend to use these drums for dilute acids/bases, it is imperative to understand the specific type of plastic the drum is made of, as certain plastics are more resistant to acids and bases than others. For instance, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a common plastic used for drums and is known for its resistance to various chemicals, including some acids and bases. However, even within the same type of plastic, different grades may exhibit varying levels of resistance. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult the manufacturer's specifications or seek expert advice to ensure the drum is suitable for your intended use.
When dealing with dilute acids/bases, safety should be a top priority. It is crucial to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and eye protection, when handling these substances. Additionally, ensure that the work area is well-ventilated to mitigate the risks associated with inhaling acidic or basic vapors. Always follow standard laboratory procedures and guidelines to minimize the chances of accidents or exposure to harmful substances.
Before using a 55-gallon plastic drum for dilute acids/bases, thorough cleaning and preparation are essential. Rinsing the drum with water is a common practice, and in some cases, baking soda or vinegar may be used to neutralize any residual substances. However, it is worth noting that some substances, like pickle juice, can leave persistent odors and flavors that are challenging to remove. While hot water, ammonia, and dish soap can help eliminate a significant portion of the smell, it may not entirely disappear.
Finally, it is worth reiterating that not all 55-gallon plastic drums are suitable for storing dilute acids/bases. Some drums are intended for single-use only, and reusing them can lead to health issues due to microscopic cracks that provide a breeding ground for bacteria. Always verify the intended use of the drum and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for safe and appropriate utilization.
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Non-potable water
One way to do this is to use a water purification system to pump purified potable water from the drum. This will help to remove any contaminants that may be present in the water. Another way to ensure your water is potable is to use an effective pump and filter kit. This will help to remove any bacteria or chemicals that may have leached into the water from the drum or the surface it was stored on.
If you are storing water for emergency purposes, it is important to take steps to ensure that it remains potable. One technique is to use plastic liner bags to control the oxygen levels in the drum. This will help to extend the shelf life of the water and reduce the growth of bacteria. It is also important to store the drum off the floor to prevent chemicals from leaching into the water.
Additionally, it is important to consider the quality of the water you are initially storing. If possible, use a source of water that is already potable, such as bottled water. If you are using tap water, consider using a filter to reduce the number of contaminants. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your 55-gallon drum of water is safe to drink and use for food preparation.
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Industrial storage
Steel drums are also available in open-head and closed-head varieties. The open-head drums are perfect for solids and, with robust UN ratings, are excellent for containing hazardous materials. The closed-head drums are ideal for containing liquids, especially hazardous or flammable liquids. Steel drums are also available with rust inhibitor interiors or lined, making them suitable for hazardous products.
Fiber drums are another option and are suitable for storing dry and solid products, with some varieties offering thermal insulation and lock closures. They are commonly used for shipping and storing solid goods, both hazardous and food/beverage. Reconditioned drums are also available, which are pre-used, cleaned, and prepared for reuse. These are available at a discount and are suitable for non-sensitive applications.
For those seeking to store liquids for any length of time, it is recommended to have as small a headspace as possible in the barrel. One technique to achieve this is by using plastic liner bags, which also make it easier to control the oxygen levels in the headspace.
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Frequently asked questions
55-gallon plastic drums are used for storing and shipping liquids and solids, including food and beverage products, hazardous materials, and non-potable water.
No, not all 55-gallon plastic drums are food-grade. Some are specifically marked "do not reuse for food and drink". It is important to check the specifications of the drum before using it for food storage or consumption.
There are open-head and closed-head 55-gallon drums. Open-head drums have removable tops and are perfect for solids, while closed-head drums have non-removable tops, making them ideal for liquids. They can be made of plastic or stainless steel, with the latter being FDA-compliant.
You can find 55-gallon food-grade plastic drums online at various retailers, such as BascoUSA.com, Amazon.com, and Yankee Containers.
It is important to ensure that the drum is specifically marked as food-grade and safe for food or drink. Additionally, it is recommended to use a new drum or one with a history that you are aware of, as any plastic storage will likely have some chemical toxin transfer. Avoid using drums that smell like anything other than plastic, especially bleach.
