Volatile chemicals need containers with more robust standards than general-purpose drums and packages. To standardize the material and structural standards of drums for dangerous goods, the United Nations establishes clear requirements for shipping and storage. The United States Department of Transportation (US DOT) enforces these standards, and the hazardous material containers must have markings—UN ratings—on the outside to establish what substances the container can handle.
At McManus Drum Company, we source UN-rated drums for immediate delivery and use by companies that need to safely store, ship, and handle potentially hazardous solids, gases, and liquids. Learn more about how UN-rated codes work to choose the right products for your operations.
What Are UN Ratings?
UN ratings are a set of letters and numbers, such as UN/1A2/Y1.5/150 for a fiberboard container. Each set of characteristics within the rating explains the material, containment capabilities, hydrostatic test pressure, date, and source of the packaging. Manufacturing or processing centers can use these codes to select the right containers for different goods. Companies across the downstream supply chain can verify that the container is the appropriate choice, know what is contained within it, and ensure proper handling practices are followed.
When to Use UN-Rated Containers
Manufacturers, processors, and transportation companies must use UN-rated containers when transporting hazardous solids, liquids, and gases. Your facility may have standardized processes that determine when UN-rated containers should or should not be used based on the materials you typically handle. Some of the most common materials that require UN-rated containers include corrosive materials and flammable liquids and solids, including:
- Explosives
- Infectious materials
- Toxic materials
- Radioactive substances
- Organic peroxide
UN-Rated Testing Techniques
Five different testing techniques determine whether a container reaches the minimum standards required of all UN-rated containers. Each of these tests measures how well the containers withstand different adverse environmental conditions:
- Drop tests. Testers drop containers over a set impact point to ensure the container continues to operate correctly.
- Hydrostatic tests. These tests determine whether containers can maintain their seal while filled with pressurized air and submerged for five minutes.
- Leak-proof tests. Containers are filled to overflowing and subjected to pressure to determine if they will leak.
- Stack compression tests. In these tests, the containers are stacked for 28 days in an environment with a set temperature of 104 °F to verify they can withstand compression at a slightly stressful temperature.
- Vibration tests. Testors shake the container until a 1/16″ inch plate can fit under the container.
How to Read UN Code Identifiers
UN codes comprise six separate elements that give a complete breakdown of the container’s capabilities and intended usage. These identifiers are:
- A three-character packaging identification code that discloses the package type, material, and category.
- A two-component code that identifies the packing group and specific gravity for liquid material containers, or the packing group and maximum gross mass for solid material packaging.
- A code that displays the hydrostatic test pressure for liquid storage, or an “S” to indicate if it contains solid materials.
- The last two digits of the year the packaging was manufactured.
- The country of manufacture for the packaging.
- A manufacturer-specific code.
For example, “2A2/X1.0/200/20/USA/57WB1W” designates a steel barrel with a closed head, capable of containing high-hazard level materials with a specific gravity of 1.0, with a hydrostatic test pressure of 200 kPa, and made in 2020 in the USA by a manufacturer with a UN code of 57WB1W.
Choose UN-Rated Drums From McManus Drum Company
McManus Drum Company specializes in supplying UN-rated and UN-compliant containers for transporting and storing hazardous materials. Since 1965, our family-owned company has served the Southeast with fast, reliable access to high-quality, durable 55-gallon UN-rated steel drums and heavy-duty plastic containers. We provide same-day shipping and a large inventory so you have the containers you need on time, every time. Contact us today to tell us what you’re looking for, or request a quote for a specific solution.
FAQs About UN Ratings
What sizes are UN-rated drums available in?
UN-rated drums are commonly available in one-gallon, five-gallon, 15-gallon, 30-gallon, and 55-gallon varieties.
How do I select the right packing group?
Each of the six segments of a UN rating corresponds to specific materials, capabilities, and manufacturers. Work backwards to determine the specifications you require and generate the code you need. For example, if your material is in packing group II or Y-hazard level for medium danger, you can use either an X-hazard (high danger) or Y-hazard (medium danger) rated container.
Can I reuse a UN-rated drum?
UN-rated drums can be reused if they’re professionally refurbished, reconditioned, and verified for reuse.
What are UN-rated drums made of?
UN-rated drums are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), steel, or specialty fiber materials and composites.
What types of UN-rated drums does McManus offer?
McManus provides closed-head and open-head steel, poly and fiber drums. We also offer both new and reconditioned UN-rated options.