The 55 Gallon Drum is one of the most versatile and recognizable containers in the world. While steel versions remain popular, the Plastic 55 Gallon Drum has carved out an equally important role across industries due to its lighter weight, corrosion resistance, and adaptability. Whether for liquids, powders, or solid materials, the fifty five gallon drum made of plastic is often the go-to solution for safe and efficient storage. But what exactly are these drums used for, and why are they such a staple in modern operations?
General uses of plastic gallon barrels
Plastic gallon barrels are widely used for both hazardous and non-hazardous materials. A Plastic 55 Gallon Drum provides the same capacity as a 55 Gallon Steel Drum but avoids issues like rust or corrosion. Common uses include:
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Food and beverage storage: Many food-grade plastic drums are used for syrups, juices, grains, or other consumable products.
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Pharmaceutical and healthcare materials: Safe for sensitive products that must avoid contamination.
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Industrial liquids and chemicals: Resistant to many corrosive substances that might degrade steel containers.
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Waste management: Effective for collecting or transporting solid and semi-solid waste.
Because they are lighter and easier to handle than a 55 Gallon Barrel Metal option, plastic drums are frequently chosen in environments where manual handling is common.
Agricultural and environmental applications
Plastic gallon barrels also serve important roles in agriculture and environmental management. Farmers use them to store feed, fertilizers, and water, while environmental projects employ them for rainwater collection or spill containment. A Plastic 55 Gallon Drum is especially valued in these settings because it resists weathering when stored outdoors.
In contrast, a 55 Gallon Steel Drum exposed to moisture may corrode, requiring replacement sooner. The durability of plastic drums under variable outdoor conditions makes them highly practical for long-term use.
Comparison with steel drums
When businesses decide to buy 55 gallon drums, they often compare steel and plastic options. A 55 Gallon Steel Drum provides strength and durability for heavy-duty materials, while a Plastic 55 Gallon Drum offers corrosion resistance and ease of handling. Steel drums are heavier and sometimes more challenging to maneuver, whereas plastic drums are easier to move but may not withstand rough treatment as well.
For some companies, the choice comes down to the type of material being stored. Chemicals that react with steel may require plastic, while heavy oils may be better suited for a 55 Gallon Barrel Metal container.
Storage and transportation efficiency
Plastic 55 Gallon Drum containers are designed to be stackable and compatible with standard pallets, making them efficient for storage and transport. However, like all rigid 55 Gallon Barrel options, they occupy the same amount of space whether full or empty. This can create inefficiencies for businesses storing large volumes of gallon barrels.
While they are effective in many ways, companies considering a 55 gallon drum for sale should think beyond immediate needs and evaluate long-term efficiency. This is where innovative alternatives can provide better value.
Modern alternatives to plastic and steel drums
Although plastic and steel remain common, collapsible polypropylene alternatives like Gorilla Drum™ are gaining traction. These solutions maintain the same 55-gallon capacity as traditional gallon barrels but weigh only about 7.5 pounds when empty. More importantly, they collapse flat when not in use, allowing up to 80 units per pallet and over 4,000 per truckload.
This innovation addresses one of the major inefficiencies of both steel and plastic drums—the inability to collapse for storage. Businesses that rely heavily on gallon barrels can drastically reduce warehousing and shipping costs with these alternatives.
For a step-by-step breakdown of how to select the best solution for your operation, consult the Complete Guide To Choosing The Right 55 Gallon Drum Alternative.
Industries benefiting from plastic drums
The range of industries using plastic drums continues to expand. Some of the most common include:
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Food and beverage processing
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Pharmaceutical manufacturing
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Cosmetics and personal care
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Agriculture and farming
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Environmental management and recycling
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Construction and industrial operations
Each industry values the adaptability of Plastic 55 Gallon Drum containers, whether for compliance, cost-effectiveness, or handling ease.
Cost and longevity considerations
When looking at a 55 gallon drum for sale, businesses often compare cost and lifespan. Plastic drums generally cost less upfront than steel drums and can last longer in environments where corrosion is an issue. However, like steel, they still occupy significant space and eventually wear down after repeated use.
Collapsible polypropylene drums reduce replacement cycles, storage costs, and shipping inefficiencies. For organizations that frequently buy 55 gallon drums, switching to a modern alternative can deliver significant long-term savings.
Final thoughts
So, what are 55 gallon plastic drums used for? They serve countless purposes, from storing food-grade products and pharmaceuticals to managing waste and agricultural materials. They are lighter than steel, resistant to corrosion, and easier to handle, making them indispensable across industries. Still, like steel drums, they have limitations in terms of storage efficiency and long-term costs.
For companies looking to maximize efficiency while maintaining the same capacity as a fifty five gallon drum, Gorilla Drum offers a superior alternative. To learn more about how Gorilla Drum can improve your storage and transportation operations, call +1 800-758-8079 today.