How Much Does A 55 Gallon Drum Of Oil Weigh?

Are you wondering just how much a 55 gallon drum of oil weighs? It’s a common question that many people have, and the answer can differ depending on the type of oil in the drum. But, in general, a 55 gallon drum of oil can range from 400 to 550 pounds.

Weight of Different Types of Oil

The weight of a full 55 gallon drum of oil will depend on the type of oil. Motor oil, for example, weighs slightly more than other types of oil due to its thicker and more viscous consistency. Motor oil typically weighs 485 to 495 pounds per 55 gallon drum. Meanwhile, lighter oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil and sunflower oil typically weigh 400 to 425 pounds per barrel.

It’s important to note that the exact weight of a 55 gallon drum of oil varies depending on the type and brand. And while oil is most commonly packaged in 55 gallon drums, it can be stored in other sizes as well. For example, a 30 gallon drum of oil will typically weigh around 250 to 300 pounds, while a 275 gallon tote can weigh up to 2,000 pounds.

Weight Considerations for Transport

Transporting a full 55 gallon drum of oil requires special considerations. Due to the weight of the drum, it’s important to take into consideration the laws and regulations surrounding transportation of hazardous materials. Make sure to check the local laws in your area to ensure you’re following the proper guidelines.

Additionally, transporting an oil drum will require a vehicle and trailer that is capable of carrying the weight of the load. According to federal law, a truck over 10,000 pounds must have a DOT number. You’ll also need to make sure the truck and trailer are rated for the amount of weight you’re carrying. To determine the exact amount of weight a truck can carry, simply look for the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and Gross Combination Weight Rating, which are usually listed on the driver’s door frame.

Safely Storing 55 Gallon Drums of Oil

If you’re storing a full 55 gallon drum of oil, you’ll need to make sure it is securely and properly stored. The drum should be placed on a flat, level, and sealed surface. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure the storage area is properly ventilated and out of direct sunlight. For motor oil, it’s also important to store the drum in a dry location, as a moist environment can lead to the oil’s chemical additives breaking down.

It’s also important to note that as the temperature of the oil in the drum changes, the weight of the drum can vary. For example, the weight of a drum of hot oil can be 15 to 20 pounds more than cold oil due to its expanded density. This is an important consideration to keep in mind, especially if you’re shipping drums of oil.

Calculating the Right Amount of Oil

If you’re using oil for a specific purpose, it’s important to make sure you have the right amount. To calculate the amount of oil you’ll need to fill a drum, simply use the following formula: Volume in Gallons x 8.34 lbs./Gallon = Weight in Pounds. So, for a 55 gallon drum of oil, you'd need to multiply 55 x 8.34, which comes out to 458.7 pounds.

Maintaining the Safety of Your Drums

When transporting, storing, and using drums of oil, it’s important to take all of the necessary safety precautions. Make sure to handle the drums safely and follow all of the relevant laws and regulations in your area. Additionally, it’s important to keep track of the weight of your drums to ensure you’re not overloading your machinery or exceeding weight limits for transport. By taking all of the necessary safety precautions, you can ensure that your drums of oil are safely stored, transported, and used.