The following selection highlights 55-gallon drums suited for empty storage, water reserves, hazardous material handling, and general containment. Each option provides different construction, head styles, and compatibility with safety standards. This guide helps homeowners and small businesses choose durable, compliant drums for long-term storage, emergencies, or transport needs.
| Product | Brand | Type | Head Style | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel | Augason Farms | Plastic Water Barrel | Open/Closed ready, BPA-free | 55 gal |
| Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid | Eagle | Plastic Drum | Open Head | 55 gal |
| Transport Drum, Open Head, 55 gal. | Skolnik | HDPE Transport Drum | Open Head | 55 gal |
| 55 Gal Steel Drum Open-Head | BayTec | Steel Drum | Open Head | 55 gal |
| 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum | Volu Sol | Plastic Drum | Tight Head | 55 gal |
Note: This table summarizes the featured options. For detailed specifications and safety considerations, review each product section below.
Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel
The Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel is a BPA-free, food-grade plastic drum designed for long-term water storage. The container supports households with a dependable emergency supply and is suitable for daily needs such as cooking and hygiene during outages. Its spacious capacity helps reduce the frequency of replacement while providing reliable access to clean water in unpredictable times. The durable, food-grade polyethylene construction emphasizes safety and long-term readiness for family preparedness plans.
Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid
This HDPE drum is designed for regulatory compliance in storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials. It features a durable, lightweight construction that stands up to weather and chemicals. The product is suitable for various storage needs, including handling non-leaking hazardous materials with tight lid choices to match material requirements. It is not intended for free liquids, so users should consider its fit for their specific contents and regulatory expectations.
Transport Drum, Open Head, 55 gal. (Skolnik)
The Skolnik 55-gallon transport drum features an open head and HDPE construction with a blue exterior. It is designed to meet regulatory requirements for the storage and transport of hazardous materials, with a lever-lock ring closure and compatible closures. The drum lists standard dimensions, load capacity, and UN rating, making it a practical option for regulated material handling where a reliable, open-head container is desired.
55 Gal Steel Drum Open-Head | BayTec
The BayTec 55-gallon steel drum is built from first-quality cold-rolled steel with a rust-inhibitor interior. It includes a lever-lock closure and gasket-covered lid, offering robust containment with corrosion resistance for longer-term storage of materials that benefit from steel barriers. This option is well-suited for applications where metal containment is preferred, and where a secure lever-lock system is advantageous.
55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum (Volu Sol)
The Volu Sol tight head plastic drum is made from durable high-molecular-weight polyethylene (HMWPE). It features a closed top with 2″ NPT and 2″ buttress fittings for controlled dispensing and leak prevention, making it suitable for on-site water storage, tool cleaning stations, or temporary liquid containment where a leak-free design is important.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a 55-gallon drum:
- Material: Plastic (HDPE or HMWPE) versus steel. Plastic drums resist corrosion and are often BPA-free, while steel drums offer superior puncture resistance and metal compatibility for certain contents.
- Head type: Open head drums allow access from the top, useful for pouring and refilling; tight head drums seal securely and reduce evaporation or leakage, with fittings for controlled dispensing.
- Regulatory compliance: For hazardous materials, select drums with appropriate UN ratings and compatible closures. Ensure lid type and closures meet material-specific requirements.
- Chemical compatibility: Some contents may react with metal or certain plastics. Check material compatibility charts for contents like fuels, solvents, or water.
- Durability and weather resistance: Consider outdoor storage needs—durable plastics resist UV and temperature shifts, while steel provides sturdy protection but may require coatings.
- Capacity and usability: While all options are 55 gal, consider weight when full (approximately 460 pounds for water) and the practicality of transport and handling tools.
- Safety and sanitation: For potable water, BPA-free and food-grade plastics are preferred. For hazardous materials, ensure seals and closures prevent leaks.
- Cost and availability: Availability of lids, accessories (bungs, closures), and replacement parts affects long-term upkeep and safety.
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