The 55-gallon drum is a standard container widely used for shipping and storage. Its dimensions are critical for ensuring proper handling, transportation, and compliance with regulations.
Understanding the external and internal dimensions helps in selecting the right drum for specific applications. The specifications vary slightly between steel and plastic drums, but standard measurements remain consistent.
Accurate dimensions ensure safe transportation and storage, making them essential for industries like chemicals, food, and hazardous waste. This section provides an overview of the key measurements and standards.
The 55-gallon drum dimensions PDF offers detailed technical drawings and tolerances, which are vital for manufacturers and users. These documents are readily available on manufacturer and regulatory websites.
Proper understanding of drum dimensions ensures compatibility with handling equipment and regulatory compliance, making it a foundational aspect of safe and efficient container usage.
1.1 Overview of 55-Gallon Drums
A 55-gallon drum is a cylindrical container designed for storing and transporting liquids, solids, or hazardous materials. Available in steel or plastic, these drums are durable and versatile, meeting various industrial and commercial needs. They are widely used for shipping, storage, and disposal due to their robust construction and compatibility with regulatory standards.
Steel drums are often used for hazardous waste, while plastic drums are ideal for food and chemical storage. Both types come in open or tight-head designs, offering flexibility for different applications. Their standardized size ensures easy handling and transportation, making them a reliable choice across industries. The 55-gallon capacity is a common standard, ensuring consistency in logistics and operations.
1.2 Importance of Accurate Dimensions
Accurate dimensions of 55-gallon drums are crucial for ensuring safe handling, transportation, and storage. Proper measurements guarantee compliance with regulatory standards, such as UN ratings, and prevent potential safety hazards. Incorrect dimensions can lead to improper sealing, instability during transit, or compatibility issues with equipment. Precise specs also ensure efficient use of space in shipping and storage facilities. Referencing a 55-gallon drum dimensions PDF provides reliable data, helping manufacturers and users maintain consistency and safety in their operations. This attention to detail is vital for industries relying on these containers.
Types of 55-Gallon Drums
55-gallon drums are primarily available in steel and plastic types, each offering unique benefits. Steel drums are durable and ideal for hazardous materials, while plastic drums are lightweight and FDA-compliant.
2.1 Steel Drums
Steel drums are a popular choice for storing and transporting hazardous materials. They are constructed from cold-rolled steel, offering durability and strength. These drums often feature bolted steel ring locks and rubber gasket lids for secure closure.
Steel drums are UN-rated and designed for safely shipping hazardous waste. They are compatible with waste-crushing machines and have features like bottom handholds for easy handling. Their robust construction ensures compliance with regulatory standards, making them ideal for industrial and hazardous material applications.
2.2 Plastic Drums
Plastic drums are durable, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for storing food, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. They are typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and are blow-molded for strength.
These drums are FDA-compliant and available in tight-head or open-head designs. With dimensions like 22.5Dia. x 34H (inside) and 24Dia. x 34.5H (outside), they offer reliable storage solutions. Their lightweight construction and resistance to chemicals make them a popular choice for various industries.
Standard Dimensions of 55-Gallon Drums
Standard dimensions for 55-gallon drums include external measurements of 24 inches in diameter and 34.5 inches in height, with internal dimensions slightly smaller at 22.5 inches in diameter and 34 inches in height. These measurements ensure uniformity and compatibility for handling and storage.
3.1 External Dimensions
The external dimensions of a standard 55-gallon drum are typically 24 inches in diameter and 34.5 inches in height. These measurements are consistent across both steel and HDPE drums, ensuring compatibility with standard handling equipment. The external diameter allows for easy stacking and transportation, while the height provides sufficient capacity for the 55-gallon volume. These dimensions are critical for ensuring compliance with shipping and storage regulations. The external measurements also include the lid and closure mechanisms, which are integral to the drum’s structure.
3.2 Internal Dimensions
The internal dimensions of a 55-gallon drum are slightly smaller than the external measurements due to the thickness of the drum’s material. For a standard steel drum, the internal diameter is approximately 22.5 inches, and the internal height is around 34 inches. These dimensions ensure the drum can hold exactly 55 gallons of liquid or material. The internal measurements are critical for applications requiring precise fitting, such as inserting liners or storing specific materials. Variations may exist between manufacturers, but these dimensions remain consistent across most models.
Material Specifications
55-gallon drums are made from durable materials like steel or high-density polyethylene. Steel drums typically have a thickness of 1.0-1.1 mm, ensuring strength and longevity. Plastic drums offer corrosion resistance and lightweight durability. Both materials meet FDA and UN regulatory standards, ensuring safety for food and hazardous materials storage.
4.1 Steel Drum Construction
Steel drums are constructed from cold-rolled steel with thicknesses typically ranging from 1.0 to 1.1 mm. They feature bolted steel ring locks and rubber gaskets for secure closure. The drums are often coated with protective layers to prevent corrosion and ensure durability. UN-rated steel drums are designed for hazardous material transport, meeting stringent safety standards. Their robust design includes reinforced rims and leak-proof lids, making them ideal for industrial and hazardous waste applications.
4.2 Plastic Drum Construction
Plastic drums are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) using a blow-molding process. They are lightweight yet durable, with standard dimensions of 22.5Dia. x 34H (internal) and 24Dia. x 34.5H (external). UN-rated plastic drums, such as UN1H1/Y1.8/100 (vented) and UN1H1/Y1.4/100, ensure compliance with hazardous material transport regulations. They are FDA-compliant for food and drug storage, available in colors like blue, black, and natural. Plastic drums feature tight head designs with NPS and Buttress plugs, offering a secure and leak-proof closure system.
Regulatory and Compliance Information
55-gallon drums must meet UN ratings for hazardous material transport and FDA standards for food storage. Compliance ensures safe handling and legal transportation of contents.
5.1 UN Ratings
UN ratings are critical for ensuring 55-gallon drums meet international safety standards for transporting hazardous materials. These ratings, such as UN1A2/X400/S or UN1A2/Y1.8/150, indicate a drum’s ability to withstand specific pressures and stresses. Drums must pass rigorous testing to achieve these certifications, which are vital for compliance with global shipping regulations. The UN rating ensures the drum can safely contain hazardous substances during transport, protecting both people and the environment from potential leaks or spills. Proper UN certification is legally required for shipping hazardous goods.
5.2 FDA Compliance
FDA compliance is essential for 55-gallon drums used in food, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic storage. Drums made from FDA-compliant materials, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in natural or blue colors, ensure safe storage of regulated products. These drums meet strict standards for chemical resistance and purity, preventing contamination. FDA compliance guarantees the drum’s suitability for non-hazardous applications, ensuring the integrity of stored substances. This certification is particularly important for industries requiring high-quality, food-grade containers.
Safety Features and Accessories
55-gallon drums feature secure closure mechanisms like bolted steel rings and rubber gaskets. Accessories include reinforced handles and bottom grips for easy handling, ensuring safe transportation and use.
6.1 Closure Mechanisms
55-gallon drums are equipped with secure closure mechanisms to ensure leak-proof sealing and safe handling. Bolted steel rings with rubber gaskets are commonly used, providing a tight seal for hazardous materials.
Plastic drums often feature screw-on lids with EPDM gaskets, ensuring compatibility with FDA standards; These mechanisms are designed to withstand rigorous transportation and storage conditions, maintaining integrity and safety.
Additional features like vented plugs and flanges enhance functionality, allowing for pressure relief and easy filling. These closures meet UN ratings and regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance for hazardous and non-hazardous applications.
6.2 Material Thickness and Durability
55-gallon drums are constructed with durable materials to ensure longevity and safety. Steel drums typically have a thickness of 1.1/1.1/1.1 mm, made from cold roll steel, and are often painted for rust resistance.
Plastic drums are crafted from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), offering excellent chemical resistance and durability. Both types are designed to withstand rigorous handling, stacking, and transportation.
Material thickness and construction ensure compliance with UN ratings and FDA standards, guaranteeing safe and reliable performance for hazardous and non-hazardous applications.
Common Uses of 55-Gallon Drums
55-gallon drums are widely used for industrial and consumer applications. They are ideal for storing hazardous waste, chemicals, and food products due to their durability and compliance with safety standards.
7.1 Industrial Applications
55-gallon drums are extensively used in industries for storing and transporting hazardous waste, chemicals, and raw materials. Their durability and UN ratings make them ideal for shipping hazardous substances.
They are commonly used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and oil industries for bulk storage and transportation. FDA-compliant drums are also used for food and beverage storage.
Their versatility extends to waste management, where they are used for collecting and transporting industrial by-products. The drums’ robust construction ensures safe handling in demanding environments.
Many industries rely on these drums for their reliability and compliance with safety standards, making them a cornerstone in industrial operations.
7;2 Consumer and Storage Uses
55-gallon drums are widely used by consumers for storage and household applications. They are ideal for storing water, chemicals, and bulk materials due to their durability and sealability.
Many homeowners use them for rainwater collection, emergency food storage, and outdoor projects. Their size and portability make them suitable for both small-scale and large storage needs.
FDA-compliant drums are often used for storing food and water, ensuring safety and hygiene. Their versatility and affordability make them a popular choice for residential and commercial storage solutions;
Overall, 55-gallon drums are a practical and reliable option for various consumer and storage needs, offering both convenience and durability.
Technical Specifications and Tolerances
Technical specifications for 55-gallon drums include precise external and internal dimensions, material thickness, and UN ratings. Measurement tolerances ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
8.1 Measurement Tolerances
Measurement tolerances for 55-gallon drums ensure consistency and compliance. External dimensions typically allow ±0.125 inches for height and ±0.25 inches for diameter. Internal dimensions follow similar standards. Material thickness tolerances are stricter, often ±0.1 mm for steel drums and ±0.2 mm for plastic. These specifications ensure proper fitment, sealing, and structural integrity. Regulatory bodies like the UN enforce these tolerances to guarantee safety and compatibility during transportation and storage. Accurate measurements are critical for hazardous material handling and FDA compliance.
8.2 Weight and Capacity Specifications
The nominal capacity of a 55-gallon drum is 55 gallons, equivalent to approximately 208 liters. Empty weights vary, with steel drums typically weighing between 23-25 pounds and plastic drums around 20-22 pounds. Material thickness and construction affect overall weight and capacity. Steel drums often have 1.0 mm thick bodies, heads, and bottoms, while plastic drums are made of durable HDPE. These specifications ensure structural integrity and compliance with safety standards for hazardous materials. Detailed weight and capacity data are provided in the 55-gallon drum dimensions PDF.
Where to Find 55-Gallon Drum Dimensions PDF
Official manufacturer websites and regulatory safety sites provide downloadable PDFs with detailed 55-gallon drum dimensions, specifications, and compliance information for easy reference and printing.
9.1 Official Manufacturer Websites
Official manufacturer websites are reliable sources for 55-gallon drum dimensions PDFs. Many manufacturers, such as Hüni Drums and Eastman, offer free downloadable PDFs with detailed technical specifications. These documents include UN ratings, FDA compliance, and precise dimensions for both steel and plastic drums. Users can easily access these resources by visiting the manufacturer’s official website and navigating to the product specifications or downloads section. This ensures accurate and up-to-date information for industrial and storage needs.
9.2 Regulatory and Safety Websites
Regulatory and safety websites provide essential resources for 55-gallon drum dimensions PDFs. These sites, such as those from the UN and OSHA, offer detailed technical specifications, UN ratings, and safety standards. They ensure compliance with hazardous material shipping and storage regulations. Users can access certification documents, guidelines, and dimension charts tailored for safe handling. These resources are crucial for industries requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and are freely accessible online for reference and download.
The 55-gallon drum dimensions PDF provides essential details for safe and efficient use. Understanding these measurements ensures compliance with regulations and proper handling. Whether for industrial or storage purposes, accurate dimensions are vital for compatibility and safety. Official resources, including manufacturer and regulatory websites, offer reliable guides for download. This information supports industries in maintaining high standards of safety and compliance, making it a crucial reference for professionals and users alike.