The drum of oil is a container filled with oil. Its name refers to the cylindrical shape of the container, but it is a more general term than a standardized unit in oil trading. The drum of oil is typically 42 US gallons, though the yield of gasoline produced from an oil barrel varies greatly depending on the source of oil and refinery technology. On average, a barrel of oil can yield between 10 and 20 gallons of gasoline.
To maintain lubricant performance, oil drums must be stored indoors in a cool and dry environment. The ideal temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme temperatures are dangerous to lubricants and may decrease their life span. Following proper lubrication storage practices is essential for optimizing lubricant performance and preserving equipment and machinery.
When shipping a drum of oil, it is important to consider the weight of the container. A single oil drum weighs about 500 pounds. This means that a person would need a fork lift or pallet jack to move it. They should not be moved by hand or through doorways. They are therefore best for commercial and warehouse use.
Drums of oil can be very heavy and are typically made of steel. A steel drum can weigh more than a normal car, and requires a medium-sized vehicle. Depending on the grade of oil, it can be as heavy or light as you need. The weight of a 55-gallon barrel varies from 6.5 to 8.5 pounds per US gallon.
The drum of oil has had a complicated relationship with oil over the years. It has changed drastically from its use as a storage container to a transportation container. Today, 55-gallon steel drums are used to transport crude oil. In the oil industry, the 55-gallon steel drum is a symbol of oil.