How Big Is a 45-Gallon Drum?

By Staff WriterLast Updated April 12, 2020

The standard size for a drum is 200 liters or 45 imperial gallons (55 US gallons). These drums have a diameter of 22.5 inches and a height of 33.5 inches. The maximum volume of the drum is 13,320 cubic inches or 57.66 US gallons.

The drums are usually made out of steel with an inner lining of rubber to improve rigidity when rolling. These drums are used to carry and store anything from crude oil and acid to hazardous waste. There is a special way to seal the drums in the case of more harmful materials. They are usually filled to 200 liters.