Though generally used for liquids and powders, a steel barrel can be used for the storing and shipping of a wide range of bulk products. When matched with applicable regulations, a barrel can also store hazardous materials that would be unsafe to transport in different containers. Each barrel is made of carbon or stainless steel in 16, 18, or 20 gauge thickness; the type of stainless steel is often determined by the expected contents of the barrel and a customers desired price range.
Each barrel consists of a body and a head (a tight head barrel has 2 heads). The open end of an open head barrel will have a removeable top head, also called a cover. The cover will be attached and held in place by either a lever lock or bolt ring closure. An open head barrel will also feature a bead; this is the steel curl at the top of the barrel. Where the flat steel has been rolled and welded to form a cylinder is called the seam. In the body of the barrel will be rolling rings, these hooped expansions add strength and rigidity to the barrel.
Skolnik Industries makes barrels in a variety of sizes including, but not limited to, 5, 30, and 110 gallons. Our in-house engineers and UN testing also means we can easily produce unique and UN certified drums for our customers. Reconditioned barrels are a way to reduce costs and materials by re-using a barrel after it has been properly cleaned. While not all barrels can be reconditioned, those that are help reduce the amount of materials used and disposed. Reconditioning a barrel also generates less CO2 than creating a brand new drum, making it an environmentally friendly option.
A steel barrel is very often the perfect container for storing or transporting your contents, and with the wide variety of sizes, steel types, and additions (linings, paints, etc.) thousands of companies seek out steel drums every day. The strength and reliability as well as the options for customization or reconditioning means there is a steel drum for almost any need. As always, being familiar with your contents is the first step towards choosing a proper container. Understanding any potential reactions to the materials used in constructing a drum will help ensure the safety of its contents as well as those who handle the container. Consulting the 49 CFR and official D.O.T documents is a great place to start when faced with questions about shipping and storing bulk materials.