Are Oil Barrels Reused? What Is the Life of One Barrel?

The U.S. oil industry produces more than 7 billion barrels of oil per year. Oil barrels are typically 42 gallon containers that are durable and sturdy for transportation. The standard size barrel was established in the mid-19th century when oil was being stored in wooden barrels. These containers can last upward of 60 years, unless they are made of newer, thinner steel materials. 

Reconditioned and new drums are durable storage containers that can hold anything from food to chemicals. Drums are made of either plastic, carbon steel, stainless steel, composite, or fiber. UN rating codes for drums allow shipments of chemicals and hazardous materials to be shipped and stored safely.

Steel drums can be reused, but need to be washed, cleaned, and serviced before reusing. Additionally, barrels should only be reused if in good condition. If they are damaged and cannot be reused, drums can be taken to your local landfill or a drum disposal service that will clean and prepare barrels for another use. 

The lifespan of a used oil barrel depends on how well it is stored and handled during its use. Oil barrels can degrade due to how it's handled even though the oil itself can’t expire.  

Due to mishandling, some oil barrels can be affected from: 

• Contaminants - mishandling oil barrels can degrade the oil quality.
• Sunlight - barrels that are exposed to UV light and radiation can degrade the quality of the oil and shorten the lifespan of the product. 
  If stored properly, an oil barrel can generally last about 5 years. However, older built barrels can last up to 60 years, while newer tanks that are built with cheaper and thinner steel may not last as long.  

A drum can be used to store and transport: 

Reusing drums and barrels is a great way to expand its lifespan. It's important to note that even if drums are property cleaned and sanitized, a drum that was previously used for chemicals or harmful substances are not compatible to store food items. Reconditioned drums are great for collecting rainwater, waste, or chemicals.

Drum liners can also help provide protection to products so items are not directly touching the drum. The liners are available in 15, 30, and 55 gallon sizes and are made of FDA compliant low density polyethylene (LDPE). 

Steel drums are one of the longest-lasting forms of packaging to use across any industry. Reconditioned drums are environmentally friendly options because they have a low carbon footprint since they can be washed and prepared for another use. Learn how used oil containers can be beneficial storage containers today! Contact us and talk to our experts today! -- 630-629-6600 or email us at sales@thecarycompany.com.