Plastic Drums: Understanding Their Weight And Capacity

Plastic drums are used for a variety of purposes, from storing water to holding corn. A 55-gallon plastic drum is a popular size, with a capacity of around 208.2 litres. The weight of a 55-gallon drum varies depending on its contents. When empty, a 55-gallon drum weighs between 17 and 19 kilograms. When filled with water, the same drum will weigh between 209 and 227 kilograms.

How much does a 55-gallon plastic drum of water weigh?

A 55-gallon plastic drum of water weighs approximately 460 to 500 pounds (209 to 227 kilograms). The weight of a full 55-gallon drum varies with its contents, but it is heavy when full. These drums are perfect for rainwater harvesting, emergency preparedness, or irrigation. They are also versatile containers for storing and transporting large quantities of liquids or materials.

How much does an empty 55-gallon plastic drum weigh?

The weight of an empty 55-gallon plastic drum varies depending on its dimensions and materials. On average, a 55-gallon plastic drum weighs approximately 20 pounds. For example, Granite Environmental's 55-gallon closed-head drums weigh 22.2 pounds each. Metal drums of the same capacity weigh twice as much, at approximately 40 pounds.

The weight of a 55-gallon drum filled with water is approximately 479 pounds (217 kilograms). This weight includes the weight of the drum, which is usually around 20 pounds.

It is important to note that the maximum net mass of a 55-gallon drum of any composition made to the UN Standard is 882 pounds (400 kg). Exceeding this weight is a violation of the HMR at 49 CFR 173.22(a)(2) for the shipper and 49 CFR 177.801 for the carrier.

How to store 55-gallon plastic drums

When storing 55-gallon plastic drums, it is important to consider the weight of the drums and their contents. An empty 55-gallon drum typically weighs around 38 to 42 pounds (17 to 19 kilograms). However, when filled with water, the weight increases significantly to approximately 460 to 500 pounds (209 to 227 kilograms). Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the storage area can support the weight of the drums, especially when they are full.

To optimise storage, it is recommended to store drums in shaded or cool areas to prevent microbial growth and degradation of the plastic. This is particularly important if the drums are stored outdoors or in areas with direct sunlight. By maintaining a stable temperature, you can extend the lifespan of the drums and prevent potential contamination.

When it comes to sealing and maintenance, tight-head drums with secure lids are ideal to prevent contamination and evaporation. This is crucial, especially if you are storing liquids or materials that require a sterile environment. Additionally, look for drums that are resistant to weather and chemicals, as this will ensure long-term storage without the risk of corrosion or degradation.

Portability is another factor to consider when storing 55-gallon plastic drums. While the drums can be heavy when full, their manageable size allows for transport with proper equipment. This is especially useful if you need to move the drums between storage locations or during distribution. Ensure you have the necessary equipment, such as dollies or pallets, to safely handle and transport the drums.

Finally, consider the versatility of 55-gallon plastic drums. They are perfect for rainwater harvesting, emergency preparedness, or irrigation. If you intend to use them for water storage, utilise an annual water collection calculator to estimate the amount of water you can collect annually based on your roof area. This will help you plan the number of drums needed for storage and ensure you make the most efficient use of your space.

How to use 55-gallon plastic drums for rainwater harvesting

A 55-gallon plastic drum weighs around 38 to 42 pounds (17 to 19 kilograms) when empty. When filled with water, it weighs approximately 460 to 500 pounds (209 to 227 kilograms). These drums are perfect for rainwater harvesting, as they are resistant to weather and chemicals, ensuring long-term storage.

• Calculate your water collection potential in gallons by adding the average annual rainfall for your area. This will help you plan the number of 55-gallon drums needed for storage.
• Store the drums in shaded or cool areas to prevent microbial growth and degradation of the plastic.
• Use tight-head drums with secure lids to prevent contamination and evaporation.
• Stack the drums for storage if needed, but ensure you use stackable drums designed for this purpose and store them on a stable surface.
• Treat the water with food-grade stabilizers and rotate the stock every 6-12 months to keep it safe.
• Consider using an annual water collection calculator to determine your needs and explore larger storage solutions if necessary.
• Rainwater can be collected from rivers or roofs and redirected to a deep pit, aquifer, or reservoir with percolation.
• Drill and fit new bulkhead fittings to connect multiple drums together.
• Use a union fitting to allow for easy disassembly without depending on size.
• To create a burn barrel from a 55-gallon drum, cut a large bottom opening for ventilation and drill side holes for air circulation. Place the drum on a stable, non-flammable surface and fill it with combustible materials for safe burning.

How to use 55-gallon plastic drums for emergency preparedness

An empty 55-gallon plastic drum typically weighs around 38 to 42 pounds (17 to 19 kilograms). When filled with water, it weighs approximately 460 to 500 pounds (209 to 227 kilograms). This makes it heavy to transport when full, but it is still manageable with the proper equipment.

• Rainwater harvesting: Use the drums to collect and store rainwater. You can calculate the number of drums you will need by finding out the average annual rainfall for your area and your roof's square footage.
• Food storage: A 55-gallon drum can hold around 350 to 400 pounds (159 to 181 kilograms) of corn, depending on density and packing tightness.
• Fuel storage: You can create a burn barrel from a 55-gallon drum by cutting a large bottom opening for ventilation and drilling side holes for air circulation. Place the drum on a stable, non-flammable surface and fill it with combustible materials for safe burning.
• Water storage: If you have access to a water source, you can fill the drums with water for emergency preparedness.
• Transport: The manageable size and durability of 55-gallon drums make them suitable for transporting large quantities of liquids or materials.

To ensure the longevity of your stored goods, follow these tips:

• Store drums in shaded or cool areas to prevent microbial growth and degradation of the plastic.
• Use tight-head drums with secure lids to prevent contamination and evaporation.
• Drums are resistant to weather and chemicals, ensuring long-term storage.

Frequently asked questions