Steel Drums
Heavy-duty carbon and stainless steel drums for industrial applications. Available in closed-head, open-head, lined, and specialty configurations from 5 to 55 gallons.
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Industrial Steel Drums
Steel drums are the backbone of industrial packaging, trusted by manufacturers worldwide for their durability, security, and versatility. At MetalDrumsTX, we stock a comprehensive inventory of new and reconditioned steel drums to meet the demands of Texas's diverse industrial sectors.
Our steel drums are manufactured to exacting standards, with options ranging from economical carbon steel containers to premium stainless steel drums for the most demanding applications. Every drum we sell meets or exceeds UN/DOT specifications for hazardous materials transport.
Whether you need a single drum or a truckload, new or reconditioned, we have the inventory and expertise to fulfill your requirements quickly and cost-effectively. Our team can help you select the right drum type, size, and specifications for your specific application.
Types of Steel Drums
Choose the right drum configuration for your specific application. Each type offers unique advantages for different products and handling requirements.
Closed-Head Steel Drums (Tight-Head)
The most common type of steel drum, featuring a permanently attached top with two threaded openings (bungs) for filling and dispensing. The closed-head design provides superior leak protection and is ideal for transporting liquids and hazardous materials. The tight seal prevents contamination and evaporation, making these drums the standard choice for the chemical and petroleum industries.
Common Applications:
- Chemical storage and transport
- Petroleum products and lubricants
- Industrial solvents and thinners
- Liquid food products
- Pharmaceutical intermediates
- Hazardous waste collection
Key Features:
- Leak-proof welded construction
- Tri-sure or Rieke fittings available
- Interior linings for chemical resistance
- Stackable design for warehouse efficiency
Open-Head Steel Drums (Removable Head)
Features a fully removable lid secured with a lever-lock ring or bolt ring, providing easy access to the entire drum interior. Open-head drums are essential for products that require manual filling, visual inspection, or cannot be poured through a bung opening. The removable lid makes these drums ideal for viscous materials, powders, and solid waste collection.
Common Applications:
- Pastes, gels, and thick liquids
- Powder and granular materials
- Solid waste and debris
- Parts cleaning and soaking
- Batch mixing containers
- Salvage and overpacking
Key Features:
- Full-opening access
- Lever-lock or bolt ring closure
- FDA-approved gaskets available
- Easy cleaning and reuse
Stainless Steel Drums
Premium corrosion-resistant drums manufactured from 304 or 316 grade stainless steel for the most demanding applications. Stainless steel drums offer superior chemical resistance, easy cleaning, and long service life. They are essential for pharmaceutical, food processing, and high-purity chemical applications where contamination must be avoided.
Common Applications:
- Pharmaceutical APIs and intermediates
- Food ingredients and flavorings
- High-purity chemicals
- Corrosive acids and bases
- Clean room environments
- Reusable container programs
Key Features:
- Superior corrosion resistance
- Easy to clean and sanitize
- Long service life (20+ years)
- Available with mirror polish finish
Lined Steel Drums
Standard steel drums with interior protective linings that provide chemical resistance and prevent product contamination. Linings extend drum life and allow steel drums to be used with products that would otherwise attack bare metal. Various lining materials are available to match specific product requirements.
Common Applications:
- Aggressive chemicals
- Food-grade products
- Adhesives and resins
- Water-based products
- Acids and caustics
- Flavor-sensitive materials
Key Features:
- Epoxy phenolic linings
- Polyethylene linings
- PTFE (Teflon) linings
- FDA-approved options
Available Sizes
Standard sizes to meet various volume requirements. Custom sizes may be available upon request.
| Size | Metric | Dimensions | Empty Weight | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Gallon | 19L | 12" dia x 14" h | 8 lbs | Samples, small batches, lab use, specialty chemicals |
| 10 Gallon | 38L | 14" dia x 17" h | 12 lbs | Small production runs, pilot batches, limited storage |
| 15 Gallon | 57L | 15" dia x 22" h | 15 lbs | Medium batches, specialty products, laboratory quantities |
| 30 Gallon | 114L | 19" dia x 29" h | 25 lbs | Medium volumes, space-constrained areas, lighter products |
| 55 Gallon | 208L | 23" dia x 34" h | 40 lbs | Standard industrial use, bulk storage and transport |
Steel Gauge Options
Understanding steel gauge helps you choose the right drum for your application. Lower gauge numbers indicate thicker, heavier steel.
Light-duty applications, non-hazardous materials, cost-sensitive applications
General purpose, most common for industrial use, balanced durability and cost
Heavy-duty, aggressive handling, high-value products, extended reuse
Industry Applications
Steel drums serve critical roles across many industries. Here's how different sectors use our drums.
Chemical Manufacturing
UN/DOT certification, chemical-resistant linings, proper labeling
Petroleum & Lubricants
Tight-head design, rust-resistant coatings, compatible gaskets
Food & Beverage
FDA-approved linings, sanitary construction, traceability
Pharmaceutical
Stainless steel construction, clean room compatibility, lot tracking
Why Choose Steel Drums?
Steel drums have been the industry standard for over a century, and for good reason. Their combination of strength, security, and sustainability makes them the preferred choice for countless applications.
Exceptional Durability
Built to withstand harsh industrial environments, rough handling, and extreme temperatures. Steel drums protect your products through the toughest conditions.
Superior Security
Tamper-evident closures and robust construction protect contents during storage and transport. Steel drums provide peace of mind for valuable or sensitive materials.
Versatile Applications
Suitable for liquids, solids, powders, and hazardous materials. Interior linings expand compatibility to virtually any product type.
100% Recyclable
Steel is infinitely recyclable without loss of quality. Using steel drums supports sustainable operations and reduces environmental impact.
Regulatory Compliance
UN/DOT certified drums meet all federal transportation requirements for hazardous materials, ensuring legal compliance and safety.
Cost-Effective
Long service life and reconditioning options make steel drums economical over time. Buy new or reconditioned to fit your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about steel drums answered by our experts.
What is the difference between closed-head and open-head drums?
Closed-head (tight-head) drums have a permanently welded top with bung openings for filling and dispensing liquids. Open-head drums have a removable lid for full access, ideal for viscous products, powders, or items requiring manual loading. Choose based on your product characteristics and handling needs.
What gauge steel should I choose?
For most applications, 18-gauge steel provides the best balance of durability and cost. Use 16-gauge for heavy-duty applications, aggressive handling, or products requiring extended drum life. 20-gauge is suitable for lighter, non-hazardous materials where cost is a primary concern.
Do you offer UN/DOT certified drums?
Yes, all our new steel drums are available with UN/DOT certification for hazardous materials transport. Certification markings are stamped on each drum, and we provide documentation for your compliance records. Both 1A1 (tight-head) and 1A2 (open-head) certifications are available.
What interior linings are available?
We offer epoxy phenolic (general chemical resistance), polyethylene (water-based products), PTFE (aggressive chemicals), and FDA-approved linings for food contact. Our team can recommend the appropriate lining based on your specific product compatibility requirements.
Can steel drums be reused or reconditioned?
Absolutely! Steel drums are highly recyclable and can often be reconditioned for reuse. Our reconditioning process includes cleaning, inspection, pressure testing, and repainting. Reconditioned drums offer significant cost savings while maintaining quality standards.
What is the typical lead time for steel drums?
Standard sizes (30 and 55 gallon) are typically in stock for immediate delivery. Specialty sizes, stainless steel, and custom configurations may require 1-2 weeks lead time. Contact us for current availability and expedited options.
Ready to Order Steel Drums?
Get competitive pricing on new and reconditioned steel drums. Our team will help you find the right solution for your specific application and budget.