55-Gallon Plastic Drums for Sale Near Me
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Fittings
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Closure Mechanisms
Closure Mechanisms
Compare 55-Gallon Plastic Drums: Tight Head vs. Open Head (Lab Pack & Standard)
Choosing the right 55-gallon plastic drum depends on your application—whether you need to store liquids, transport chemicals, or safely dispose of hazardous materials. Below is a breakdown of three popular types: tight head, lab pack, and standard open head plastic drums.
Tight-Head
Open-Head
55-Gallon Tight Head Plastic Drum
- Type: Tight Head (Sealed Top, Non-Removable)
- Closure: Two 2” Bung Openings (NPT & Buttress Threads)
- Material: Blow-Molded HDPE
- Color: Natural (Translucent for Fill-Level Visibility)
- UN Rating: UN1H1/Y1.9/150 – Approved for liquids
- Tapered Design: No
- Best For: Storage and transport of industrial liquids, chemicals, and hazardous fluids
- Features:
- Seamless, one-piece construction prevents leaks
- High chemical resistance
- Stackable and transport-friendly
55-Gallon Lab Pack Open Head Plastic Drum
- Type: Open Head (Removable Lid with Lever Lock)
- Closure: Metal Lever Lock Ring
- Material: HDPE
- Color Options: Yellow or Black
- UN Rating: UN1H2/X300/S – Approved for hazardous solids
- Tapered Design: Yes – Nestable for storage
- Best For: Hazardous waste collection, solid chemical disposal, spill cleanup
- Features:
- Tapered sides allow nesting to save space
- Easy access for loading and cleaning
- Lightweight, durable, and chemical-resistant
55-Gallon Standard Open Head Plastic Drum
- Type: Open Head (Removable Lid with Bolt Ring)
- Closure: 12-Gauge Bolt Ring with Gasketed Lid
- Material: HDPE
- Color: Blue
- UN Rating: UN1H2/Y250/S – Approved for solids
- Tapered Design: No – Straight-sided
- Best For: Dry goods, powders, granules, and solid waste
- Features:
- Stronger bolt ring closure for more secure sealing
- Gasketed lid improves moisture and odor controlIdeal for applications requiring frequent opening and resealing
At a Glance: Key Differences
Below are key specs for 55-gallon tight-head and open-head plastic drums, including dimensions, weight, material, and UN ratings.
| Feature | Tight Head Drum | Lab Pack Drum (Yellow/Black) | Standard Open Head Drum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drum Type | Closed / Tight Head | Open Head (Lab Pack) | Open Head (Standard) |
| Lid Type | Non-Removable | Removable with Lever Lock | Removable with Bolt Ring |
| Best For | Liquids / Chemicals | Hazardous Solids / Waste | Dry Solids / Powders |
| UN Rating | UN1H1/Y1.9/150 | UN1H2/X300/S | UN1H2/Y250/S |
| Tapered Design | No | Yes – Nestable | No |
| Closure Type | 2" Bung Openings | Metal Lever Lock Ring | Bolt Ring + Gasketed Lid |
| Material | Blow-Molded HDPE | Injection Molded HDPE | Blow-Molded HDPE |
| Color Options | Natural | Yellow or Black | Blue |
Which 55-Gallon Plastic Drum is Right for You?
- Tight Head: Best for shipping or storing liquids securely
- Lab Pack: Ideal for hazardous solid waste and nesting efficiency
- Standard Open Head: Great for dry goods or applications needing a stronger, gasketed seal
