Metal Drums

Tighthead drums are designed for oils and liquids; they typically have a pair of bung closures for fast filling and decanting. Open top metal kegs have bung openings and a top that can be removed. This can be useful for powders or when full drum access is required.

A standard steel drum holds 210 litres, whilst standard tinplate drums come in a 25 litres size.

Our UN approved 210 litre steel drums, tightheads and kegs are typically used to store oils, petroleum-based liquids, chemicals, liquids and powders. Tinplate drums are suitable for chemicals, coatings and oils.

Standard steel drums are made from low-carbon steel sheets. This is generally 16-gauge, 1.5mm thick steel that is then rolled, welded and coated with protective enamel paint, to prevent corrosion. Tinplate drums are made from tinplate, which has a powder-coated external finish.

Yes, steel and tinplate drums and kegs can be recycled after use. They can also be reused multiple times, making metal drums a practical and sustainable packaging choice.

Our large steel open top drums and tighthead kegs come complete with closures. Bungs, caps and closures are available to order separately when you order from the tinplate drum range.

No, due to their intended purpose, steel drums are not usually certified as food grade.

Plain metal drums have no internal finish; they are designed for oils and petroleum-based liquids. Lacquered drums have a lacquered internal finish for use with water-based products, or when a higher-level of protection is required.

Yes, our steel drums are UN approved for certified shipping and storage. Please contact the team if you need documentation.

Yes, most of Invopak's metal drums are made in the UK.