Specifications
This UN Rated 55 gallon blue tight head plastic drum is also known as a shipping container. This blow molded drum is made of industrial strength high molecular weight polyethylene (HMWPE), a plastic similar to HDPE but more durable, with extra thick walls to provide superior performance and durability. The seamless construction of this closed head drum is suitable for outdoor use. This drum's highest fill temperature is 140 °F and its lowest fill temperature is -40 °F. This closed head storage drum features drain vents molded in the top with two 2" openings. The first is a 2" NPS bung opening which includes a NPT plug with a 3/4" center reducer & faucet carrier and a EPDM gasket. The second is a 2" Buttress bung opening which includes a Buttress plug and EPDM gasket.

Key benefits
  • Original Single L-Ring design offers the best in material handling, and long service life
  • Integrally molded top ring facilitates handling using "parrot's beak" assembly, side grabber, hoist, forklift, and hand truck
  • Optimally drainable
  • Bottom handhold for easy handling
  • Same dimensions as a steel drum for standardized handling and conveying
  • Complies with FDA regulations for food and drugs
  • Proudly Made in the USA

Plastic Containers That Can Hold Food!

Plastic continues to be a top choice across the food industry, from containers being used in restaurants to jars and bottles being popular for small businesses. It is important to make sure the right plastics are being used to hold food products in accordance with the FDA. Our product specialists are available to help explain what the differences are between FDA Approved, Compliant and Food Grade.



Material:

High-Density Polyethylene PlasticHigh density polyethylene (HDPE ) is the most commonly used resin. This economical plastic has good impact and chemical resistance, is naturally translucent and flexible. It is typically used for personal care products such as shampoo bottles. Adding color will give HDPE an opaque look that will result in an increase in weight and rigidness. We have a variety of these rigid and tough high density polyethylene products in stock, from containers, pails, bottles, caps, tubs and jugs. HDPE works well in below freezing temperatures. HDPE heat compatibility varies. Maximum fill temperature is generally around 171°F; however, testing is recommended with your specific product and application. Distortion occurs between 220° to 250° F.

Disclaimer:

This information has been provided as a general guide. It is the customer's responsibility to select the proper container for product and application compatibility. The Cary Company does hereby disclaim any and all warranties, expressed or implied, including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose or use. We are not responsible for consequential damages arising from customer's selection and use of containers, container and label dimensions, and/or closures supplied by us.

Additional Information

More Information
Capacity55 gal.
ColorBlue
MaterialHDPE
FDA CompliantYes
Dimensions23-1/4" (591 mm) Dia. x 34-3/4" (883 mm) H
Nominal Tare Weight21.5 lbs. (9.8 kg)
Pallet Pack8 ea.
Pallet Dimensions48" L x 48" W x 74" H
Country of ManufactureUnited States
ConditionNew
ClosureTight Head (Closed)
Min. Wall Thickness0.087-in. (2.2 mm)
Fittings2" NPS & 2" Buttress
GasketEPDM Rubber Gasket
UN Rating LiquidUN1H1/Y1.9/100
Note:» View our entire 55 Gallon Drum selection.
*For quantities of 48 or more drums, please contact us for pricing and shipping rates.
Q & A
Customer Questions
What is the lifespan of plastic 55 gallon drums?
Thank you for your inquiry. Plastic drums are quite durable and resist degradation. They do not dent or rust. However, damage, such as cracks and scratches, can be sustained from improper handling. It is also important to make sure your plastic drum is compatible with whatever material or liquid it holds. Please note that drums that are used to ship hazardous materials internationally automatically have a five-year lifespan. Thank you for choosing The Cary Company.
Can you use this 55 gallon blue Industrial Plastic Drum to store gas?
Thank you for your inquiry. We do not recommend storing gasoline or other flammable fluids in this plastic drum. The main reason is that the plastic, in this case high molecular weight polyethylene (HMWPE), can react with the gasoline and start to break the plastic down. This can result in damage to the storage container causing leakage. The plastic/gasoline reaction can also result in cross-contamination that will affect the chemical composition of the fuel itself, which can become unstable.
Although we have some plastic safety cans available, they are made for short-term storage of small quantities of fuel (up to 5 gallons). We also have metal safety cans available for this purpose: Type I Safety Cans and Type II Safety Cans. Thank you for choosing The Cary Company.
How tall is a 55 gallon drum?
The height of a 55 gallon drum ranges from 33" to 36-3/4" depending if it’s plastic, steel or fiber, open-head or tight-head. For specific information about this product, please view the specification sheet or contact us for more information.
How wide is a 55 gallon drum?
The width of a 55 gallon drum ranges from 21" to 24-1/2" in diameter depending if it’s plastic, steel or fiber, open-head or tight-head. For specific information about this product, please view the specification sheet or contact us for more information.
How much does a 55 gallon drum weigh?
The weight varies on the material, style and dimensions of a drum. The weight of a 55 gallon drum can range from 22 lbs. to 44 lbs. or more. For specific information about this product, please view the specification sheet or contact us for more information.
How are 55 gallon drums shipped?
The Cary Company ships LTL (Less Than Truckload) or Truckloads on 55 gallon or larger drums.
What 55 gallon drum quantities can ship UPS?
55 gallon drums cannot be shipped by UPS. Sizes less than 55 gallons in small quantities may be shipped by UPS.
Are tight head plastic drums food grade?
Reconditioned drums are not typically FDA-approved for food grade. Our new tight head plastic drums are FDA approved for food or pharmaceutical storage.
What are tight head plastic drums typically used for?
Tight head plastic drum applications include storing and transporting chemicals, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, waste, dyes, pigment, soaps, detergents, and many more commercial uses. Many of the tight head drums available from The Cary Company are UN rated for the safe storage, handling and transportation of hazardous materials.
How do I open this tight head drum?
For a tight head plastic drum, the cover cannot be removed. To get to the contents from inside, remove the drum fittings also known as plugs or bungs.
Can I use a heating blanket or band on this tight head plastic drum?
Yes, we have heating bands specifically designed to heat plastic drums.
Can you use this to store off road diesel ?
Thank you for your question! We do not know enough about your product or application to be able to recommend a specific item. We would advise you to pass along your data sheet to the Department of Transportation for more information on how your product should be stored and transported. Thank you for choosing The Cary Company.
Can you ship internationally? Where are you located?
The Cary Company online ordering platform is set up to ship within the United States as well as Canada. For other international shipments, please contact us at 630.629.6600 or Orders@thecarycompany.com, and we will be happy to process your order. Our main warehouse and office are located in Addison, Ill. We also have warehouses across the United States that you can see here. Thank you for choosing The Cary Company.
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Product Reviews

5/5
5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

Based on 11 customer(s) reviews

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11
5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

Michele Cully, 09 August 2022

high quality

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

Emmanuel Varona-Torres, 12 May 2022

As expected.

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

Anonymous, 05 May 2022

As advertised. Very good quality

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

anonymous anonymous, 05 November 2021

Very good quality drums, but well over priced compared to equivalent containers from other distributors.

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

anonymous anonymous, 26 August 2021

Excellent quality and slightly more than what we wanted to pay; however, it was available when Mauser delayed our T/L order a full month

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

anonymous anonymous, 09 November 2020

Great source, product arrives clean and consistent.

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

anonymous anonymous, 17 September 2020

Very strong and durable product that allows us to have confidence knowing the disinfectant we are shipping will arrive safely. Highly recommend this product.

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

anonymous anonymous, 01 July 2020

Good drum

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

anonymous anonymous, 16 March 2019

5 stars

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

anonymous anonymous, 04 January 2019

good

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5 out of five star rating on Trustpilot

anonymous anonymous, 17 November 2018

They’re exactly what we ordered.

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