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Drum and Barrel Heaters: FAQs and What You Need to Know

Written by Python Covers Team | Sep 26, 2023 3:20:53 PM

Drum and barrel warmers - also known as drum heaters - play a crucial role in various industries where the temperature control of liquids and gels is essential. These innovative devices are specifically designed to reduce the viscosity of substances by applying heat, preventing them from freezing inside drums.

With temperature requirements being a critical factor in the performance of chemicals like spray foam, drum heaters have become indispensable tools. They efficiently heat and maintain the temperature of liquids and chemicals stored in drums and barrels, ensuring optimal functionality and preventing any potential issues that may arise from freezing.

In this article we'll answer the following questions:

  1. How do you keep a 55 gallon drum from freezing?
  2. What is the purpose of a drum heater?
  3. Do drum heaters work?
  4. How a drum heater works
  5. How long does it take for a drum heater to work?
  6. How hot does a drum heater get?

 


How do you keep a 55 gallon drum from freezing?

When faced with the challenge of preventing a 55 gallon drum from freezing, there are various effective strategies to consider.

For those fortunate enough to have the option, storing the drums in a heated shop or trailer is a reliable method to maintain the desired temperature. However, when circumstances require the drum to be placed outdoors or at a job site, the importance of utilizing a dependable drum heater or barrel warmer cannot be overstated.

Barrel and drum heaters are specifically engineered to provide the necessary heat and uphold optimal temperatures, ensuring the contents of the drum remain unaffected by freezing conditions. With their ability to maintain viscosity and enhance chemical performance, drum heaters are the ultimate solution for safeguarding your precious materials.

What is the purpose of a drum heater?

A drum heater (or barrel warmer) is used to reduce viscosity of liquids and gels by heating in order to prevent liquids from freezing inside the drum. Many applications, like spray foam, have temperature requirements for proper chemical performance.

 

Do drum heaters work?

Yes. Drum heaters work when used properly; they are a product for heating and maintaining the temperature of liquids and chemicals stored in drums and barrels. There are many different types an models suited for different applications and budgets.

How a drum heater works:

  1. Once installed, the drum needs to be plugged into the nearest 120v outlet.
  2. An integrated controller sets and sends the desired temperature to the heating element sewn into the blanket.
  3. The wire heating element uses electricity to warm up and transfers heat to the 55 gallon drum or barrel.
  4. There is a temperature sensor that turns the heating element on and off based on the desired temp. vs actual temp.
  5. The heating element itself uses thermal conductivity to transfer the heat inwards as it makes contact with the drum. Therefore, the blanket will not heat the ambient air.

 

How long does it take for a drum heater to work?

The performance of drum warmers can differ based on factors such as the brand, style, and the ambient air temperature.

Once the Sidewinder Drum Heater is plugged in, it immediately begins to heat up to reach the desired temperature set on the controller. Once the sensor detects that the set temperature has been reached, the controller will intelligently cycle on and off to maintain the optimal temperature, ensuring consistent warmth for your drum contents.

 

How hot does a drum heater get?

Once again, the performance of drum warmers can differ based on factors such as the brand, style, and the ambient air temperature. The Sidewinder Drum Heater reaches its maximum temperature at 120°F.