55 Gallon Drums
55 gallon drums are the standard-sized drums used for storage and shipping in the United States and around the world. In Britain, they may be known as 44 gallon drums, and they are sometimes known as 200 litre drums in Australia. Their capacity is roughly equivalent to 55 U.S. gallons, 44 imperial gallons, or 208 liters. The standard diameter for 55 gallon drums is 22.5 inches.
The 55 gallon drum became a standard size in the United States during the First World War. They fit handily in a standard-sized pallet and are easily moved along a dock or factory floor with a wheeled hand truck. Their standard size helps them easily fit in standard drum dollies, racks, and carts.
55 gallon drums may be made of steel or plastic. Steel is required for transporting radioactive, flammable, or otherwise hazardous material. For non-hazardous material, plastic drums are often used because they do not rust. Plastic drums may also be used instead of steel in transporting caustic or acidic liquids.
55 gallon drums may be open-top, closed, or welded top drums. Open-top drums have a top that can be removed and replaced and can be used to store either liquids or solids. Closed-top drums, in comparison, are welded shut and as such can only efficiently be used to store liquid, which is dispensed through bung holes. Closed-top drums may also be referred to as barrels.