Material Guide
Understanding drum materials helps you choose the right container for your application. Each material has unique properties and ideal uses.
Carbon Steel
The most common drum material, offering excellent strength and durability.
Advantages
- High strength
- Cost-effective
- Widely available
- Easy to recondition
- UN/DOT certified options
Considerations
- Can rust without coating
- Heavy
- May react with some chemicals
Common Applications
Petroleum productsChemicalsIndustrial liquidsPaints & coatings
Stainless Steel
Premium material for demanding applications requiring exceptional corrosion resistance.
Advantages
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Sanitary
- Long lifespan
- Easy to clean
- Chemical resistant
Considerations
- Higher cost
- Heavy
- Limited availability
Common Applications
PharmaceuticalsFood processingBiotechFine chemicals
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
Lightweight plastic offering excellent chemical resistance and ease of handling.
Advantages
- Chemical resistant
- Lightweight
- Non-corrosive
- Cost-effective
- UV resistant grades
Considerations
- Not for high temperatures
- Can absorb some solvents
- Limited pressure rating
Common Applications
Food & beverageChemicalsWater treatmentAgriculture
Fiber (Fiberboard)
Economical option for dry goods made from multiple plies of paperboard.
Advantages
- Very economical
- Lightweight
- Recyclable
- Customizable
- Good for dry goods
Considerations
- Not for liquids
- Moisture sensitive
- Lower strength
- Single use typically
Common Applications
Dry chemicalsPowdersFood ingredientsPaper products
Composite (Fiber/Plastic)
Combines plastic liner with fiber shell for chemical resistance with economy.
Advantages
- Chemical resistant liner
- Cost-effective
- Lighter than steel
- UN certified
Considerations
- Single use liner
- Limited reconditioning
- Not for all chemicals
Common Applications
Liquid chemicalsSolventsAgricultural chemicalsIndustrial cleaners
Need Help Choosing?
Our team can help you select the right drum material for your specific application requirements.
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