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The 55-gallon drum is a popular container used for storing and transporting a wide variety of materials. In some applications, it may be necessary to heat these containers. This can help prevent freezing of the contents or maintain a specific temperature for processing or handling. The type of heating element used depends on the type of material and application, and several options are available for both metal and plastic drums. These include barrel heaters, immersion drum heaters, and flexible heating jackets. Barrel heaters are one of the most common https://www.pamaens.com/insulated-drum-band-heater-barrel-heater.html s and are suitable for both metal and plastic containers. They feature a metal housing that surrounds the drum, with a heating element inside that provides uniform heating of the container. These heaters are easy to install and remove, making them ideal for applications that require frequent drum changes. However, they do not provide precise temperature control, and the air gap between the heater and drum can result in some heat loss. Immersion drum heaters are another option for heating 55-gallon plastic drums. These heaters consist of an electric heating element with a sheath that is inserted into the drum. The sheath is made from either stainless steel or incoloy, and the heating elements are rated for use up to temperatures of 257 degrees Fahrenheit. A built-in thermostat and three-heat switch provide a range of heating power levels, with the high setting providing maximum wattage. The medium and low settings allow users to adjust the power output according to their needs. Flexible heating jackets are a third option for drum heaters, with a sheath that is wrapped around the container and secured with adjustable straps. These jackets provide direct contact with the drum, minimizing heat loss and ensuring uniform heating. They are also easy to install and remove, but they can be more expensive than barrel heaters and may not be as durable. Regardless of the type of drum heater used, it is important to follow proper safety precautions when working with these devices. Always wear gloves when touching the heater or the heated container, and never leave a drum unattended while it is being heated. It is also important to maintain and inspect the equipment regularly, replacing any parts that are worn or damaged. It is recommended to use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or circuit breaker for the electrical supply to the drum heater, and to test it regularly. The EXPO(tm) DUH-55 electric drum heater installs easily with spring-loaded toggle clamp that securely fits onto the outside of a standard steel or poly drum. The sheath is 10.5" (267mm) long and fits containers up to 58" in height, and the unit is UL listed for indoor use only. The heater should be mounted away from flammables and near an industrial outlet with a matching amperage rating. Avoid bending or coiling the capillary tube tighter than a 1/2" radius, as this can damage the baked-on epoxy phenolic lining in steel lined drums.
