Fibre drums are versatile storage cylinders that have become increasingly popular across various industries. These environmentally-friendly containers offer a remarkable combination of sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and practical handling benefits. As experts in industrial packaging solutions, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you understand what fibre drums are and how they might benefit your business.
What Are Fibre Drums?
Fibre drums are robust storage cylinders constructed from fibreboard—a material similar in appearance to cardboard but significantly stronger and more durable. The cylindrical body is made from high-grade paper (kraftliner) which provides excellent structural integrity, while the removable lid is typically manufactured from either plastic or steel.
The fibre used in the cylinder’s body is produced from recyclable materials, and the lid can be repurposed and reused multiple times. This construction makes fibre drums an exceptionally sustainable packaging option.
Available in a wide range of sizes—from just a few litres up to 200 litres of storage capacity—fibre drums offer versatility to meet diverse industrial needs.
Key Benefits of Fibre Drums
Environmental Advantages
Fibre drums stand out as a sustainable and environmentally responsible choice. Constructed from recyclable materials, they represent a shrewd option for businesses looking to enhance their sustainability credentials or reduce their environmental footprint.
At the end of their useful life, when they can no longer be reused or recycled, fibre drums offer the additional benefit of biodegradability—something that plastic and metal alternatives cannot match.
Cost-Effectiveness
The fibreboard construction makes these drums remarkably cost-effective. They can be purchased at a significantly lower price point compared to alternative storage solutions such as steel or plastic drums.
Additionally, their lightweight nature translates to reduced shipping costs. The substantial weight difference between fibre drums and their metal counterparts means lower transport expenses and reduced fuel consumption during distribution.
Handling Efficiency
Being incredibly light to handle, fibre drums are much easier to manoeuvre around warehouses and production facilities. This can lead to improved operational efficiency and reduced risk of handling injuries for staff.
Customisable Protection
Fibre drums can be enhanced with internal and external liners to increase their versatility and performance. For added strength and security, they are traditionally sealed with steel chimbs, which can be easily removed using a de-chimber when it’s time for recycling. We also supply drums without steel chimbs to cater for specific weight, disposal, laboratory or other requirements.
Versatile Applications Across Industries
Despite their lightweight nature, fibre drums are surprisingly versatile and durable. They serve various industries with different storage and transportation needs –
Wire and Cable Industry
The cylindrical shape of fibre drums provides an ideal storage system for wires and cables of all lengths. The drum’s design allows for easy dispensing and prevents tangling during transportation.
Pharmaceutical Sector
The pharmaceutical industry frequently utilises fibre drums for their adaptability. With various available capacities, these drums can be tailored to specific products requiring storage or shipping.
Chemical Storage
Whilst not typically the first choice for hazardous chemicals, fibre drums can safely store many chemical products when fitted with an appropriate additional protective layer within the drum. Many of our fibre drum designs are UN-certified to Packaging Group 1 (PG1) for the transport of dangerous solids.
Food Industry
Food manufacturers regularly employ fibre drums to store and transport powdered goods, flavourings, and spices. The food-grade versions ensure product integrity whilst maintaining sustainability.
Bulk Materials
Across numerous industries, fibre drums excel at storing bulk materials such as powders, tablets, granules, pastes, and even non-hazardous liquids.
Standard Fibre Drum Dimensions
Our fibre drums come in a comprehensive range of sizes, from compact 17-litre options to substantial 220-litre drums. The dimensions typically follow a format of diameter x height (in millimetres), with various combinations available to suit different storage requirements.
Common diameter measurements include 355mm, 395mm, 455mm, 470mm, 510mm, and 571mm, whilst heights range from 200mm for smaller drums to 1030mm for our larger capacity options.
25kg Fibre Drum Dimensions
For applications requiring approximately 25kg capacity storage, we offer several suitable options. These typically include drums in the 30-35 litre range, such as our 34L LeverLoc drum (355mm x 375mm) which is UN-certified for solids. These mid-sized drums provide an excellent balance between capacity and handling convenience.
Our Manufacturing Expertise
Over several decades, we have developed extensive expertise in manufacturing fibre drums. Our products are made in Ireland, representing a sustainable and value-for-money alternative to plastic or steel containers.
The high-grade kraftliner paper we use ensures our fibre drums are robust enough to meet the demands of even the most challenging supply chains. We currently offer 11 different types of fibre drum, each designed for specific applications.
By choosing our fibre drums, you’re not only selecting a practical storage solution but also making a positive environmental choice that may help reduce your business’s overall running costs.
For businesses looking to enhance their sustainability credentials whilst maintaining practical, cost-effective storage solutions, fibre drums represent an excellent choice worth serious consideration.
Do you still have questions about fibre drums? Read our in depth FAQ to learn more
Fibre Drums FAQ
What are fibre drums made of?
Fibre drums are made from compressed kraft paperboard with metal or plastic rims and lids. They are designed for durability while remaining lightweight and eco-friendly.
What can fibre drums be used for?
Fibre drums are commonly used to store and transport powders, granules, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food ingredients, and hazardous materials. They are ideal for dry and semi-liquid products.
Are fibre drums UN-certified?
Yes, some fibre drums are UN-certified for the transport of hazardous materials. Always check the UN marking to ensure compliance with regulations for dangerous goods.
Can fibre drums be used for food storage?
Yes, fibre drums can be used for food storage, provided they have a food-grade liner to ensure product safety and compliance with food regulations.
How strong are fibre drums?
Fibre drums are surprisingly strong, with load capacities ranging from 25kg to 200kg, depending on the design. They offer excellent stacking strength while being lighter than steel or plastic alternatives.
Are fibre drums waterproof?
Standard fibre drums are not waterproof, but they can be lined with plastic or coated to offer moisture resistance. Plastic or foil linings help protect contents from humidity.
Can you store fibre drums outside?
Standard Fibre drums are not suitable to be stored outside. However, the fibre drums can be lined internally and externally making them suitable for storage outside for up to 6 months.
Are fibre drums customisable?
Yes, fibre drums can be customised to height and width, you can even have your logo printed on our Fibre Drums subject to suitability and minimum order quantity.
Can fibre drums be recycled?
Yes! Fibre drums are 100% recyclable when the metal rings and liners are removed. They are an eco-friendly alternative to plastic and steel drums.
How do fibre drums compare to plastic and steel drums?
- Fibre drums are lightweight, recyclable, and cost-effective.
- Plastic drums are more moisture-resistant and suitable for liquids.
- Steel drums offer the highest durability and are ideal for heavy-duty chemicals.
So there you have it – Fibre Drums are the versatile, sustainable storage solution. If you want to place an order, or if you still have an unanswered question, reach out to Industrial Packaging here, for all of your packaging needs.