The 55 Gallon Drum has been a trusted storage and transport solution for decades, widely used across industries ranging from food production to hazardous waste management. When businesses look at a 55 Gallon Drum Container, one of the key decisions they must make is whether to use a lined or unlined version. Understanding the differences between these two options is essential to choosing the right container for safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.
What is a lined steel drum?
A lined 55 Gallon Steel Drum is manufactured with an internal protective coating. This lining is typically made of epoxy or phenolic resin designed to provide an additional barrier between the contents and the metal. A 55 Gallon Barrel Metal option with lining is often used for materials that could corrode steel or absorb contaminants, such as food products, pharmaceuticals, or sensitive chemicals.
The lining prevents direct contact between the contents and the drum walls, which can reduce the risk of contamination and extend the container’s useful life. For companies that buy 55 gallon drums for high-value or sensitive products, lined gallon barrels are often the preferred choice.
What is an unlined steel drum?
An unlined fifty five gallon drum has no internal coating and is simply made of raw steel. These drums are typically used for storing materials that are not reactive with metal, such as oils, lubricants, and some non-corrosive chemicals. Because they lack a protective barrier, unlined drums are generally less expensive than lined versions, making them a practical option for applications where contamination risk is minimal.
However, an unlined 55 Gallon Barrel is more susceptible to corrosion if used in environments with high humidity or if exposed to certain contents. Businesses evaluating a 55 gallon drum for sale should carefully consider whether an unlined option is suitable for their storage needs.
Advantages of lined drums
The main advantages of lined gallon barrels include:
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Contamination prevention: The lining protects the contents from interacting with the metal.
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Extended shelf life: Sensitive products can be stored longer without degradation.
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Regulatory compliance: Some industries require lined drums for specific applications.
Lined drums are a strong choice when handling food-grade materials, pharmaceuticals, or highly sensitive chemicals that demand strict purity standards.
Advantages of unlined drums
Unlined 55 Gallon Steel Drums also have clear benefits:
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Lower cost: Without the added lining, these drums are typically less expensive.
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Durability: Strong enough for heavy-duty industrial use.
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Simplicity: Suitable for contents that do not require special protection.
For companies that buy 55 gallon drums for general industrial materials, unlined options remain a reliable and practical choice.
Limitations of both lined and unlined drums
Despite their usefulness, both lined and unlined 55 Gallon Barrel Metal containers have limitations. Steel drums are heavy, weighing more than 40 pounds empty, making them difficult to move and transport. They also consume the same amount of space whether empty or full, leading to inefficiencies in storage and shipping. Even lined drums eventually wear down, requiring replacement and creating disposal challenges.
For businesses focused on efficiency and sustainability, these limitations are driving the search for alternatives beyond traditional steel gallon barrels.
Modern alternatives to steel drums
A growing number of organizations are turning to collapsible polypropylene containers like Gorilla Drum™. Offering the same 55-gallon capacity as a traditional drum, Gorilla Drum weighs only about 7.5 pounds when unfilled. Unlike rigid steel drums, it collapses flat for easy storage, allowing up to 80 units per pallet and over 4,000 per truckload. This efficiency dramatically reduces warehouse space requirements and transportation costs.
For a detailed look at why more businesses are making the switch, read The Cost And Safety Benefits Of Switching From Steel Drums.
Comparing with plastic drums
Some businesses opt for a Plastic 55 Gallon Drum as an alternative to steel. While lighter and resistant to rust, plastic drums remain rigid and cannot collapse for storage. They can also be less durable under heavy use. Compared to both plastic and steel drums, Gorilla Drum provides a combination of light weight, durability, and compliance that better suits modern logistics.
Choosing the right container for your needs
When deciding whether to use lined or unlined steel drums, the key factors include the type of material being stored, the environment, and cost considerations. While lined drums are best for sensitive products, unlined drums remain effective for non-corrosive materials. However, businesses should also evaluate whether newer alternatives provide a more efficient and sustainable option for their operations.
For comprehensive guidance on selecting the best solution, explore the Complete Guide To Choosing The Right 55 Gallon Drum Alternative.
Final thoughts
The difference between lined and unlined steel drums comes down to protection and application. Lined 55 Gallon Drum Containers provide a barrier for sensitive materials, while unlined drums serve well for more general use. Yet both types share the same challenges of weight, bulk, and long-term costs. Modern alternatives like Gorilla Drum deliver the same capacity as a fifty five gallon drum while offering collapsibility, recyclability, and compliance with hazardous material regulations.
For businesses aiming to improve efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness, Gorilla Drum stands out as the smarter solution. To learn more about how Gorilla Drum can benefit your operations, call +1 800-758-8079 today.