Chloe Zhang
Plastic drums are commonly used in industries for the transportation and storage of liquids, solids, and hazardous materials. They are made of high-density polyethylene, a durable material that can withstand impacts and harsh environments. There are two main types of plastic drums: open-head and tight-head drums. Open-head drums have a removable lid, while tight-head drums are sealed at the top and bottom with small openings. To open a plastic drum, it is important to first secure the drum and inspect it for any damage. Plastic drums usually have bung holes, which can be opened using a wrench or pump.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types | Open-head, tight-head, steel, oil, and plastic drums |
| Use | Commonly used in industrial and commercial settings to store and transport liquids and solids |
| Size | 8 gallons up to 57 gallons; 30-litre to 220-litre capacity |
| Open-head drums | Removable top; can be sealed with a lid and fastenings for transport or storage |
| Tight-head drums | Sealed at the top and bottom with no removable lid; small openings on top or side |
| Safety | Wear protective gear when handling; take precautions to prevent spills |
| Opening process | Position drum securely; locate bung holes/opening; use a wrench to loosen the ring clamp |
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the drum for opening
Preparing an industrial plastic drum for opening requires several important steps to ensure safety and efficiency. Firstly, it is crucial to identify the type of plastic drum you are working with, as there are two main varieties: open-head and tight-head drums. Open-head drums, also known as open-top drums, feature a removable lid, providing convenient access to the contents. In contrast, tight-head drums have a sealed top with fittings and no removable lid. Understanding the specific type of drum you are dealing with is essential for determining the appropriate tools and techniques for opening it.
Once you have identified the drum type, the next step is to inspect the drum for any signs of damage or leaks, especially if it has been stored for an extended period. This inspection process is crucial to ensure that the drum's structural integrity is intact and that its contents have not compromised the container. Any signs of damage or leaks should be carefully noted and assessed before proceeding.
After the initial inspection, the drum should be positioned securely to prevent any accidental rolling or movement during the opening process. A stable and flat surface is ideal, ensuring that the drum is firmly anchored in place. Additionally, it is recommended to wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, to safeguard against potential spills or exposure to hazardous materials. This is especially important when dealing with drums containing liquids or chemicals.
Before initiating the opening process, you should also familiarise yourself with the drum's specific features. Plastic drums typically have one or two bung holes, which are small openings used for inserting tools or pumps to access the contents. The location of these bung holes can vary, usually found on the top or side of the drum. Identifying the bung holes is essential, as they will be the primary access points for opening and dispensing the drum's contents.
By following these preparatory steps, you can ensure a safe and controlled approach to opening an industrial plastic drum. Each step contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the drum's condition, type, and specific access points, enabling a more efficient and secure process. With the drum securely positioned and the necessary safety precautions in place, you can proceed to the next stage of the opening process with confidence.
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Wear protective gear
When preparing to open an industrial plastic drum, wearing protective gear is essential for your safety. The specific gear you need will depend on the contents of the drum, but in general, you should wear protective gloves and goggles. These items will shield your eyes and hands from any spills or splashes that could occur during the opening process. If you are dealing with hazardous materials, you may also need additional protective gear, such as a respirator or a full-body suit. It is crucial to refer to the safety data sheet of the substance inside the drum to determine the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).
The gloves you choose should be made of a material that is resistant to the substance inside the drum. For example, if you are handling chemicals, you will need chemical-resistant gloves. Similarly, if you are working with oils, select gloves that have a good grip to prevent slippage. It is also important to ensure that the gloves fit snugly and allow for dexterity, as you will need to grip tools and perform precise movements during the drum-opening process.
Goggles are another critical component of your protective gear when opening an industrial plastic drum. They will safeguard your eyes from any splashes or fumes that may escape during the process. When selecting goggles, opt for a pair that has side shields or wrap-around lenses to provide the most comprehensive protection. Additionally, consider choosing goggles with an anti-fog coating to prevent your vision from being obscured during work.
In certain situations, you may require additional protective gear beyond gloves and goggles. For instance, if the drum contains hazardous materials, you might need to wear a respirator to prevent the inhalation of toxic fumes or particles. A full-body suit could also be necessary to protect your skin and clothing from exposure to harmful substances. In some cases, you may even require a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) if the environment is highly toxic or oxygen-deficient.
Remember, before donning your protective gear, it is important to carefully review the safety data sheet of the substance inside the drum. This will provide you with specific information about the hazards associated with the material and the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) to wear. By taking the time to understand the potential risks and donning the appropriate protective gear, you can help ensure your safety while opening an industrial plastic drum.
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Locate the bung holes
Plastic drums usually have two bung holes, which are the openings where you can insert a tool or pump to access the contents of the drum. These bung holes are typically located on the top of the drum and are covered with caps. The caps on the bung holes should be removed using a drum wrench or a pair of pliers. The bolt on the bung cap should be gripped and turned counterclockwise to loosen the cap gradually.
A drum bung wrench made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a suitable tool for opening industrial plastic drums. Its non-sparking material makes it safe for use in environments with flammable substances. It is also lightweight, durable, corrosion-resistant, and easy to handle and transport.
In the absence of a drum wrench, a pair of pliers can be used to grip the bolt on the bung cap and turn it counterclockwise. A hammer and screwdriver can also be used to gently ease off the bung cap.
It is important to note that over-tightening a bung on a plastic drum can damage the bunghole, leading to leaks. Therefore, it is crucial to comply with the recommended tightening torque when screwing the bung. Additionally, a bung must be fitted with the correct seal, such as rubber or PE, to ensure leak tightness.
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Use a pump or faucet
Using a pump or faucet is a safe and reliable method to dispense liquids from an industrial plastic drum. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Choose the Right Faucet
First, evaluate the type of liquid in the drum. Different liquids require different types of faucets. For instance, if you're dealing with chemicals like acids or alkalis, you'll need a corrosion-resistant plastic faucet. On the other hand, if you're working with thin, free-flowing liquids, a 3/4" drum faucet is ideal to prevent dripping and provide better flow control. Many plastic drum faucets are FDA-compliant, making them suitable for food or edible products.
Install the Faucet
Once you've selected the correct drum faucet, it's time to install it. Place the threaded end of the faucet into the drum's bung opening and screw it in clockwise until it's snug. If you're using an adapter, screw it into the drum first, and then attach the faucet to the adapter.
Use a Drum Pump
If you prefer to use a pump instead of a faucet, drum pumps are an excellent solution for extracting liquids from heavy drums. They come in various types, including manual, electric, and pneumatic options. Choose a pump that suits the type of liquid you're dealing with and the specific application. For example, stainless steel pumps are suitable for flammable liquids or chemicals, while plastic pumps are lightweight and easy to install.
Operate the Pump
A drum pump fits into the top opening of the drum through its narrow tube, which houses a vertical shaft with a small motor attached. The motor can be turned on via a switch, or in the case of a manual pump, by hand using a crank. The pumping mechanism then sucks out the content from the base of the tube. Drum pumps are versatile and can be used with various liquids, making them a valuable tool in different industries.
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Choose the right drum for the contents
When choosing an industrial plastic drum, it is important to select the right one for its contents. This will ensure safety and compliance, especially when dealing with hazardous materials. Here are some key considerations:
UN Ratings
The United Nations (UN) has established an essential system of ratings for drums used to transport hazardous materials. These ratings are internationally recognised and provide a standardised way to assess the integrity, performance, and ability of drums to contain hazardous substances during storage and transportation. The UN rating consists of alphanumeric codes that convey crucial information about the drum's suitability for specific hazardous materials. The codes include the packaging group (indicating the level of danger), the UN symbol (identifying the container type and material composition), the UN code (indicating compatibility with specific hazardous materials), and the performance level (signifying the type of test and conditions the drum has passed). Ensure the drum's UN rating aligns with the characteristics and hazards of the substance to prevent leaks or accidents.
Material Compatibility
Consider the material composition of the drum and its compatibility with the contents. Some hazardous materials may react adversely with certain drum materials, compromising its integrity. For example, corrosive materials should not be stored in steel drums, and certain chemicals that attack polyethylene should not be used with plastic barrels. Plastic drums made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are resistant to extremely high or low pH levels, making them a safe choice for many materials, but some solvents require steel drums.
Storage and Transportation Conditions
Assess the conditions the drum will be exposed to during storage and transportation, such as temperature, pressure, and environmental factors. Choose a drum with a UN rating that suits these specific conditions. For example, plastic drums have exceptional impact strength, even in extremely low temperatures. Additionally, consider the capacity and design of the drum. Plastic drums come in various sizes, ranging from compact 15-gallon drums to large 330-gallon totes, with different designs like stackable, nestable, and open-head options.
Legal Compliance
Ensure that the chosen drum complies with local, national, and international regulations and standards. Non-compliant drums can lead to severe penalties and safety hazards. Reconditioned drums, for example, are held to stringent standards but are typically not approved for food or pharmaceutical storage. Additionally, consider the UN's guidelines for food-grade drums to ensure the safety of food products.
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Frequently asked questions
Before opening an industrial plastic drum, wear protective gloves and goggles to shield your eyes and hands from spills or leaks. Place the drum on a stable and flat surface to prevent it from rolling or moving. If the drum has been stored for a long time, inspect it for any damage or leaks.
There are two main types of industrial plastic drums: open-head and tight-head. Open-head drums have a removable lid, whereas tight-head drums are sealed at the top and bottom with no removable lid.
Open-head drums have a removable lid or cover, so you simply need to remove the lid to access the contents. Open-head drums usually have a large opening at the top, making it easy to fill and empty the drum.
Tight-head drums are sealed with an industrial threaded bung closure. To open a tight-head drum, use a drum wrench to loosen the ring clamp around the bung, then turn it counter-clockwise until you can remove the bung by hand.
Industrial plastic drums are commonly used for storing and transporting liquids and solids in various industries, including manufacturing, food and beverage, and hazardous waste management. They are made of durable materials like high-density polyethylene, which can withstand impacts and harsh environments.
