All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier

About plastic drums closed top

Types of plastic drums closed top

Plastic barrels are reliable containers for securely storing a variety of products. They come in numerous types to suit different needs. The most common closed-top types include these.

Standard open-top plastic drum

This type has a fixed top that cannot be opened and offers a tight seal for leak-proof storage. This feature makes them ideal for storing liquids such as chemicals, oils, and food products. Their strong and durable materials also make them suitable for outdoor use.

UN-rated closed top plastic barrels

These barrels are manufactured in line with international regulations for storing hazardous substances. This means that they are absorbed by dangerous goods such as chemicals or toxic products. Just like in the first type, their closed design also guarantees safety and compliance with international standards.

Screw-top plastic drums

This closed-top type features threaded lids, ensuring an even tighter seal for sensitive materials. This kind of top is good for storing items that need extra protection, including pharmaceuticals or electronic components. Here, easy access is another advantage of this kind of drum.

Bung-equipped plastic drums

As the name goes, these closed-top plastic drums come with bungs or manholes. They provide easy access for filling and sampling. Both types of bungs, vented and non-vented, are available to suit different storage needs. This includes releasing gases while preventing leakage.

Collapsible plastic barrels

These smooth closed plastic barrels can be folded and are suitable for temporary storage. They, however, have less permanent storage than other types. Their portabilty makes them suitable for transporting them from one location to another.

Design of plastic drums closed top

Variety plastic drum designs are meant for diverse applications and needs. Some of the design elements include the following.

Capacity

Closed top plastic barrels come in various capacities, which make them suitable for small and large storage needs. These include 30 liters or 55 liters of the more widely used sizes. The range can go both up and down depending on the storage needs.

Wall thickness

This thickness, often determined by the drift or intended use of the drum, may widely vary. For example, thicker-walled barrels are suitable for storing hazardous materials as they provide extra security. On the other hand, thinner-walled options are lightweight and easier to move.

Color

Color is, however, more than aesthetic since it influences the operation of the plastic closed drum. For instance, blue is frequently designated for water storage, while black drums are best for solar heating. Translucent varieties allow monitoring of contents without opening the drum.

Internal coating

Some closed-top plastic drums may have an internal coating that helps protect the drum from the corrosive nature of certain stored substances. This coating provides a barrier between the material and the plastic to ensure that there is no interaction that would compromise the material's integrity.

Lid and seal mechanism

The closed top design of these plastic drums incorporates various lid and seal systems, which vary in security levels and ease of access. A screw-lock lid ensures tight sealing, while a flip-top lid allows fast access. As for the seal, a tamper-evident feature will add an extra layer of security for sensitive items.

Commercial use cases of plastic drums closed top

Plastic closed-top drums are excellent containers in business settings. Due to their sturdy design, they can carry many liquids and materials. Below are some of their most common use cases.

Chemical storage

The strong plastic closed drum is ideal for storing hazardous chemicals. Their durable design offers great protection from corrosion. They also have secure sealing that prevents leaks and so protects the chemical from contaminating the environment.

Food and beverage industry

These drums store bulk food products like ingredients, oils, or powders. They are made from food-safe plastic and so ensure that there are hygiene and safety standards. This durability also means that the drums can be used during transportation and storage.

Pharmaceuticals

Plastic barrels with tight seals ensure that sensitive medical supplies, pharmaceutical chemicals, and drugs are securely stored. Some are even manufactured to prevent tampering. As such, they maintain the supplied products' integrity and quality.

Agriculture

Plastic drums store fertilizers, pesticides, and water for crops or livestock. Their resistance to corrosion means they are viable for long-term outdoor storage of chemicals. Additionally, holders can stack them and save on storage space.

Waste management

This type of drum collects and transports hazardous waste such as industrial scraps or urban refuse. Its strong and closed structure contains dangerous substances during transportation without the fear of spillage.

Bulk material transport

These plastic drums are also used in the safe transportation of bulk liquid materials like oils, chemicals, and liquid minerals. Their standard sizes also ensure compatibility with many vehicles and equipment while facilitating seamless movements.

Parts and labor needed to maintain plastic drums closed top

Maintaining these plastic drums is crucial to increase the longevity and functionality of the products. No maintenance is so effective without proper knowledge about maintenance and, at the same time, learning the maintenance procedures. Below are some maintenance tips and procedures.

Regular inspection

It is important to regularly check closed plastic containers for signs of wear or damage such as cracks, dents, or bulging. Early identification of problems ensures that appropriate action is taken before the situation develops into a more complicated problem.

Cleaning

Residues of previously stored substances might contaminate the current one. Thus, the interior of the drum must be adequately washed before storing a different material. This will also ensure that there are no chemical interactions between residues and the substances in the drum.

Storage conditions

These barrels should be protected from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, which degrade plastic over time. Proper control of the storage environment increases the lifespan of the plastic and keeps stored materials safe.

Seals and lids

Apart from protecting the contents, the seal's primary function is to maintain the material's purity and security. Therefore, inspecting and replacing worn seals goes a long way in ensuring safe storage.

Stacking and handling

Close-top plastic barrels should be handled carefully to reduce physical stress. If stacked, ensure even weight distribution to prevent toppling and damaging either the plastic or the contents.

Repairing plastic drum closed top

Drums that are slightly damaged can be repaired instead of buying a new one. For example, small cracks can be fixed by welding plastic. Chemical-resistant epoxy can also be used to repair punctures or holes. This reinforces the damaged area and prevents it from spreading. Repairing the old drums will also save resources and reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing new ones.

Replacing plastic drum closed top

The seal can be tightened again by replacing worn seals or the lids. This preserves the contents' security and safety. Any internal or external damage to the closed top drum can lead to seepage. This can cause a loss of material and contamination of the surrounding environment. Replacement of damaged drums will ensure safe storage.

How to choose plastic drums closed top

Transportation and storage challenges will be minimized by having the right plastic closed-top containers. Think about the following factors in order not to end up with the wrong choice and waste resources.

The type of stored material

Consider the nature of the material to be stored. High-density polyethylene drums are excellent for storing chemicals due to their resistance. Food-grade plastic is ideal for food and beverage storage. Make sure whether the drum should be UV-protected or opaque to prevent the breakdown of the stored material.

Bearing capacity

The required capacity depends on the storage needs. A larger capacity ensures bulk storage, while a smaller one provides the needed storage requirements. On the other hand, size should be considered so that it will fit the storage space and transportation vehicles in an optimal way.

Seal and lid type

Choose a closed-top plastic drum with an appropriate sealing level for the stored material. Sensitive materials require a threaded screw lid for additional seal-tightness. On the other hand, a bung-equipped barrel is suitable for safe sampling or liquid transfer. Tamper-proof seals are essential when storing controlled items such as pharmaceuticals.

Maintenance and longevity

Plastic drums constructed from durable materials like polypropylene or high-density polyethylene require less maintenance. Not only are they impact-resistant, but they are also UV-resistant to ensure outdoor usability. This type of plastic is extremely weather-resistant; thus, it will not warp or crack.

Compliance with regulations

Always ensure that the selected closed-top barrel complies with the required industry standards and regulatory bodies. For example, UN-marked drums are fit for hazardous material storage and transportation. Food-grade plastic is also certified by relevant health and safety organizations.

Q & A

Q1: What are closed-top plastic drums made of?

A1: Most closed-top plastic drums are made of high-density polyethylene, a strong and chemical-resistant plastic. Some are also made from polypropylene, which is impact-proof and UV-resistant.

Q2: What is the difference between HDPE and PP drums?

A2: High-density polyethylene drums are ideal for harsh chemical storage due to their exceptional corrosion resistance. On the other hand, polypropylene drums are more flexible and tougher, making them suitable for impact resistance.

Q3: Are closed-top plastic drums used for food storage?

A3: Closed-top plastic containers designed with food-grade plastic are safe for food storage. This type of plastic is free of hazardous chemicals. It is also easy to clean and sanitize the surface.

Q4: How long do closed plastic containers last?

A4: The average lifespan of closed plastic containers massively depends on the nature of their contents and environmental conditions. Generally, they last between three and five years. Regular maintenance may also increase their longevity and efficiency.

Q5: What is the maximum capacity of these plastic drums?

A5: The 30 liters and the 200 liters are the most common sizes of these plastic drums. Other available sizes are the 1-liter and 15-liter types. The 200-liter sizes are the most popular among users.

Q6: Are there collapsible plastic barrels?

A6: Yes, some closed plastic barrels are designed to be temporarily collapsible, saving space during empty conditions. However, these are not ideal for permanent storage solutions. Their portability makes them desirable for transport.