Understanding the Fibre Drum Manufacturing Process

Fibre drums are surprisingly robust and long lasting. When handled and stored correctly, they have a long lifespan and can be reused time and time again.

But looking at a fibre drum from the outset that can sometimes be hard to believe, particularly if your business is more accustomed to using heavy-duty steel or plastic containers for storage and transport.

Understanding the fibre drum manufacturing process can help you to realise just how beneficial these drums can be for your business. In this article, the experts at ITP Packaging explain more.

What Is Fibre Made From and What Are the Benefits of Using It in Drums?

So what is a fibre drum actually made from? That’s a question we get asked a lot here at ITP Packaging, because there’s often confusion as to which materials are used in the fibre drum manufacturing process.

Fibre drums can also be called cardboard or fibreboard drums; they are in fact exactly the same thing. The type of fibre, cardboard or fibreboard that’s used to manufacture these drums is officially known as virgin kraft paper.

Virgin kraft paper is a strong, resilient and robust type of cardboard that’s perfect for industrial use. It’s prepared from sustainable materials, in the same way that any paper is prepared from different types of wood.

The term ‘virgin’ refers to the fact that this kraft paper hasn’t been recycled, which makes it stronger. However, this doesn’t mean that the drum can’t be recycled, or that the materials being used aren’t environmentally friendly.

Let’s take a look at a few of the benefits of choosing virgin kraft paper for the fibre drum manufacturing process:

• Produced using sustainable materials
• Produced using environmentally friendly methods
• Cost-effective industrial packaging solution
• Virgin kraft paper is strong and resilient
• Long-lasting material ensures that drums can be used multiple times
• Virgin kraft paper can be waterproofed for added protection

What Is the Fibre Drum Manufacturing Process?

Fibre drums are generally manufactured in bulk, using factory machines that allow the virgin kraft paper to be spun into a robust cylindrical shape.

The fibre drum manufacturing process uses very little energy in comparison to producing plastic or steel barrels, so the process is seen as both sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Drums are generally composed of a cylindrical body and a top and bottom piece. The best drums are also manufactured with a steel chimb for added support.

Once manufactured, drums can then be fitted with labels, logos or branding to suit your business needs.

How Many Different Types of Fibre Drums Are Available on the Market Today?

Fibre drums can be readily produced en-spec to meet your exact demands, but there are several common types you’ll see on the market.

Fibre drums range in size from 26 litres up to 200 litres, and they can be waterproof or non-waterproof. Fibre drums can be fitted with metal chimbs, or they can be manufactured without. They can also be produced with different types of locking levers, for added security.

The fibre drums sold by ITP Packaging are always UN approved for industrial use.

How to Choose a Fibre Drum for Your Specific Needs

To decide which type of fibre drum is best for you, you need to ask yourself a few questions to determine the type that fulfils your business needs best:

• What capacity do you need?
• Do you need drums to be waterproof?
• Do you need the added support of metal chimbs?
• Do you need a lever lock for security?
• What’s your budget?

How to Maintain Your New Fibre Drum So That You Maximise Its Lifespan

Fibre drums can be reused multiple times before they begin to deteriorate. Once they finally reach the end of their long lifespan, they can be recycled into new products.

To maximise the lifespan of your fibre drums, ensure you keep them stored indoors, away from sources of heat and moisture, and make sure you use internal drum liners for added protection.

Contact ITP Packaging to Find Out More About the Fibre Drum Manufacturing Process

Fibre drums are a low-cost and environmentally friendly alternative to other forms of traditional industrial packaging. Surprisingly robust and long-lasting, fibre drums could be the sustainable solution your business has been looking for. If you’re interested in learning more about the fibre drum manufacturing process or the benefits of adopting fibre drums for your business, the expert team at ITP Packaging are ready to help. Contact our friendly staff today to find out more.