
Plastic drums are used for the storage and transportation of liquids, powders, and other materials. They are made from blow-molded high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and are available in a range of colours, including blue, black, white, and natural. The capacity of a plastic drum varies depending on its design and purpose, with sizes ranging from 8 gallons to 330 gallons. One of the most common capacities for plastic drums is 55 gallons, which is the industry standard for most applications, offering a balance of capacity and manageability.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Steel, dense paperboard, plastic |
| Use | Storing and transporting liquids, powders, chemicals, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, waste, etc. |
| Durability | Resistant to dents, corrosion, and chemical reactions |
| Safety | Capable of storing and transporting hazardous materials |
| Capacity | 8 gallons, 15 gallons, 20 gallons, 30 gallons, 55 gallons, 65 gallons, 95 gallons, 103 gallons, 180 gallons, 330 gallons |
| Weight | 55 gallons of water weighs 459 pounds |
| Colors | Blue, black, white, natural |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic drums are versatile and used across industries
- They are durable, lightweight and cost-effective
- Plastic drums are ideal for storing and transporting liquids, powders and other materials
- They come in a variety of sizes, from 8 gallons up to 330 gallons
- Plastic drums are commonly used in agriculture, food processing and waste management

Plastic drums are versatile and used across industries
Plastic drums are available in a range of sizes, from 8 gallons to 180 gallons, with 55 gallons being a common capacity. They are typically made from blow-molded high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a lightweight, durable, and flexible material. HDPE is resistant to most solvents, diluted acids, alkalis, and alcohols, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
The versatility of plastic drums lies in their ability to cater to various industries, including manufacturing, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and cosmetics. In the food and beverage industry, plastic drums are used for the safe storage and transportation of food and drinks, with the assurance that the plastic will not seep into or absorb the products. For instance, a drum with a removable lid is suitable for slow-moving liquids like thick paint and adhesives.
In the pharmaceutical industry, plastic drums are used for shipping and storing pharmaceuticals, ensuring compliance with FDA and USDA regulations. The drums are also used for hazardous materials, with specific UN ratings indicating their ability to handle dangerous goods. This makes them suitable for the chemical industry, where they can be used for storing and transporting chemicals and other manufactured materials.
Additionally, plastic drums are used in the cosmetics industry for storing and transporting cosmetics. Their lightweight nature makes them ideal for shipping, reducing overall shipping costs. The durability and flexibility of plastic drums also make them a cost-effective choice, as they can be reused multiple times. The ability to recycle and recondition plastic drums further adds to their versatility and sustainability.
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They are durable, lightweight and cost-effective
Plastic drums are a popular choice for businesses due to their durability, lightweight nature, and cost-effectiveness. They are versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications, including storing and transporting liquids and solids such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food, liquids, cosmetics, electronic parts, hardware, and household products.
The durability of plastic drums makes them a reliable option for businesses. They are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a strong and sturdy material that can withstand a wide range of environmental conditions. This makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Plastic drums are also available with UV protection, further enhancing their durability.
The lightweight nature of plastic drums is advantageous for transportation and handling. They are easier to move and manoeuvre than heavier alternatives, such as steel drums. This can lead to potential cost savings in shipping and fuel expenses. Additionally, the lightweight property of plastic drums does not compromise their strength. They are extremely strong and can withstand punctures, leaks, and impacts, ensuring the safe storage and transport of goods.
Cost-effectiveness is another key benefit of plastic drums. New polyethylene drums are typically less expensive than new steel drums, making them a more economical choice for businesses. Reconditioned plastic drums, which are professionally cleaned and restored, offer an even lower price point without sacrificing quality. This makes them a safe and affordable option for shipping and storage applications, although they may not be suitable for food or drinking water use due to FDA standards.
Plastic drums come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 8 gallons to 57 gallons, with some larger options available. They are available in both open-head and tight head styles, each serving different purposes. Open-head plastic drums feature a removable cover, providing convenient access to the contents and making them ideal for bulk storage and transport. On the other hand, tight head plastic drums have a sealed lid, minimising the risk of spills during storage and transport of liquids and chemicals.
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Plastic drums are ideal for storing and transporting liquids, powders and other materials
Plastic drums are a versatile solution for storing and transporting various materials, from liquids and powders to hazardous substances. They are typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a durable and malleable material that can withstand high temperatures and resist UV light. This makes plastic drums ideal for storing and transporting temperature-sensitive goods.
Plastic drums come in a range of sizes, from 8 gallons up to 180 gallons, with the most common size being 55 gallons. They feature two main designs: open-head and tight-head. Open-head drums have a removable lid, making it convenient to access the contents and are perfect for slow-moving liquids. On the other hand, tight-head drums have securely fastened lids, reducing the risk of spillage and making them ideal for transporting liquids.
These drums are suitable for a wide range of applications. They are commonly used to store and transport cooking oils, ingredients, beverages, and powdered goods. Additionally, they are a popular choice for hazardous materials, such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and waste. Plastic drums are also used for spill containment and cleanup of hazardous materials and biohazard waste disposal.
The versatility of plastic drums extends beyond their capacity for liquids and solids. They are also useful for storing and transporting hazardous waste, including damaged or leaking containers. Plastic drums are often used as salvage and overpack drums in these instances. Salvage drums are used for absorbent materials contaminated with hazardous substances, while overpack drums are employed for spill containment by contractors, transportation companies, and medical facilities.
Plastic drums are a popular choice for industrial storage and transportation due to their durability, versatility, and reusability. They provide a weather-resistant and leak-proof option, ensuring the safe handling of various materials. However, it is important to prioritise health and safety by preventing cross-contamination and following proper storage procedures.
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They come in a variety of sizes, from 8 gallons up to 330 gallons
Plastic drums are highly versatile containers used across industries for the storage and transport of liquids, powders, solids, and other materials. They are made from blow-moulded high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and are available in a variety of colours, including blue, black, white, and natural.
The capacity of a plastic drum is an important factor in its functionality, influencing its applications and efficiency. Plastic drums come in a wide range of sizes, typically measured in gallons or litres. They can be as small as 8 gallons and can go up to 330 gallons for large industrial applications.
Some of the most common capacities for plastic drums include 15–20 gallons (57–76 litres), which are compact drums often used for small-scale operations or household purposes. The 30-gallon (114-litre) drums are medium-sized and frequently found in industrial or commercial settings.
The 55-gallon (208-litre) drum is the industry standard, offering a balance of capacity and manageability. It is suitable for various materials, including liquids, solids, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food, electronics, hardware, and household products.
For larger-scale operations, plastic drums are available in capacities greater than 100 gallons, such as 103 gallons (390 litres), 180 gallons (681 litres), and 200 gallons (approximately 757 litres). These larger drums are ideal for industrial, commercial, and agricultural uses, as well as for storing and transporting hazardous materials, waste, and non-flammable liquids.
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Plastic drums are commonly used in agriculture, food processing and waste management
Plastic drums are highly versatile and used across a wide range of industries. They are commonly used in agriculture, food processing, and waste management due to their durability, stackability, and ability to safely store and transport various substances.
In agriculture, plastic drums are used to store and transport materials such as fertilizers and insecticides. These drums are often reconditioned to meet UN standards for transporting and storing hazardous materials. For example, some fertilizers contain nitrate, sulfur, or ammonium, which are considered hazardous and require UN-approved containers. Plastic drums provide reliable protection during the transportation and storage of these agricultural materials.
In food processing, plastic drums are used for storing and transporting various foodstuffs, including liquids, semi-solids, powders, and other similar items. Food-grade plastic drums are essential for the safe storage of consumables, ensuring that food does not come into contact with harmful chemicals or dyes that may be present in non-food-grade plastics. Blue plastic drums made from HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) are commonly used in the food industry due to their durability and long-lasting nature.
Additionally, plastic drums are useful in waste management. Their practicality and durability make them suitable for storing and transporting waste materials, oils, and even certain chemicals. The ability to stack drums facilitates efficient waste storage, and their reusability contributes to environmentally conscious waste management practices.
The capacity of plastic drums typically ranges from 30 litres to 220 litres, providing a versatile option for businesses in agriculture, food processing, and waste management.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic drums typically come in sizes ranging from 8 gallons to 57 gallons, with 55 gallons being the industry standard.
A 55-gallon plastic drum is used for storing and transporting liquids, powders, and other materials. They are commonly used in industries such as agriculture, food processing, and waste management.
Plastic drums offer several advantages over steel drums, including durability, lightweight construction, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. They are also resistant to dents, corrosion, and chemical reactions.










































