DURABLE. RELIABLE. BUILT FOR THE TOUGHEST JOBS.
For Liquids, Chemicals & Hazardous Materials
Steel drums are the industry standard for storing and shipping liquids, solvents, and hazardous materials. Built from rugged cold-rolled steel, they offer maximum strength, stackability, and UN-rated protection for demanding industrial use.
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Cold-Rolled Steel
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UN/DOT Rated
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Open & Closed Head
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Leak-Tight Closures
Overview
Heavy-gauge cold-rolled steel drums engineered to UN/DOT standards, available in open-head and closed-head styles for solvents, lubricants, corrosive chemicals, and hazardous waste across chemical, petroleum, and manufacturing operations.
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Open- and closed-head drums certified for Packing Groups I, II, and III hazardous liquids.
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Heavy-gauge steel with rolling hoops for superior stacking strength and impact resistance.
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Available in open-head and closed-head styles with 2" and 3/4" bung fittings.
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Phenolic, epoxy, or lacquer interior coatings safeguard against corrosion and contamination.
Specifications
Nominal Capacity
55 U.S. gallons (208 L); 16-55 gal sizes available
Material
Cold-Rolled Steel
Height
34.5 in (876 mm)
Diameter
22.5 in (572 mm)
Wall Thickness
1.0-1.2 mm
Weight
38-45 lbs (17-20 kg)
Closure & Fittings
2" & 3/4" Bungs (closed-head) or Bolted Ring (open-head)
UN Certification
UN 1A1/X1.6/300 (closed-head); 1A2 ratings for open-head
Interior
Phenolic Epoxy or Lacquer Lining
Exterior Finish
Baked Enamel / Powder-Coated
Common Uses
Acids & Caustics
Paints & Coatings
Industrial Chemicals
Food-Grade Ingredients
Liquid Fertilizers
Hazardous Liquids
Water Treatment Chemicals
Agricultural Chemicals
Waste & Recovery Materials
How to spec yours
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Choose closed-head for liquids and hazardous materials, open-head for solids and easy access.
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Select a phenolic or epoxy lining matched to the chemical compatibility of your product.
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Confirm the required Packing Group and specific gravity rating for your hazardous material.
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Specify bung sizes or lever-lock ring closures based on your filling and dispensing process.
Compare
Type
Best For
Key Benefit
Consideration
Steel Drums
Solvents, fuels, and UN-rated hazardous liquids and solids
Can corrode; heavier than plastic
Maximum strength and durability
Stainless Steel Drums
Corrosive, high-purity, food and pharma products needing a reusable drum
Highest upfront cost
Corrosion-proof and sanitary
HDPE Plastic Drums
Non-hazardous liquids and industrial chemicals
Not ideal for high heat
Chemical resistance, won't rust
Natural HDPE Drums
Food, beverage, and pharma products needing fill-level visibility
Less UV resistance
Product visibility
Black HDPE Drums
Light-sensitive chemicals and lubricants for outdoor storage
Heat can cause expansion
UV protection
Fiber Drums
Dry powders, granules, and solid bulk products
Not for liquids
Lightweight and recyclable
Related Products
What are 55 gallon steel drums used for?
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Steel drums are used to store and ship liquids, solvents, lubricants, coatings, and hazardous materials across chemical, petroleum, and manufacturing industries. Their strength and UN ratings make them the standard for regulated and high-value freight.
What is the difference between open-head and closed-head steel drums?
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Open-head (removable-lid) drums suit solids and viscous products needing easy access; closed-head (tight-head) drums have sealed tops with bung openings for liquids. Closed-head can carry Packing Groups I-III hazardous liquids, open-head typically II-III.
Are steel drums UN-rated for hazardous materials?
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Yes. Our steel drums are available UN/DOT-rated for hazardous materials and hazardous waste, as well as in non-UN configurations. The UN marking specifies the approved packing group and maximum specific gravity for your contents.
Can steel drums be reconditioned or recycled?
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Steel drums are highly durable and can be professionally reconditioned for repeated use or fully recycled as scrap steel. This makes them both a rugged and environmentally responsible choice for industrial packaging.
Do steel drums need an interior lining?
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It depends on the contents. Water-based, acidic, or high-purity products can react with bare steel, so a rust-inhibitive or epoxy-phenolic lining is matched to the chemistry and contact time. Many solvents and oils ship in unlined steel.
How are 55 gallon drums handled and moved?
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Filled 55 gallon drums are moved with drum dollies, forklift attachments, or rimmed drum handlers rather than by hand, and stored upright on a flat surface. Confirm the filled weight and follow safe lifting and stacking limits for your contents.
Our packaging specialists will help you match the ideal container to your product, storage, and compliance needs. We stock and ship nationwide.
