How many liters is a standard oil drum?
2 Answers
A standard oil drum holds 200 liters. The 200L drum capper (sealing pliers) is specifically designed for sealing the internationally standardized 200-liter (53-gallon) large-capacity oil drums. It has a diameter of 80 cm and a height of 120 cm. Originally, petroleum transactions were all measured in barrels. Precautions for barrel gasoline: Do not place the iron drum in direct sunlight or high-temperature areas, as it may expand due to heat; Tighten the lid properly to prevent gasoline evaporation; Check the sealing of the iron drum; Do not fill it completely, leave room for expansion; Secure it firmly with ropes during transportation. Safe gasoline usage methods: Maintain sufficient gasoline in the car tank to prevent oxidation and deterioration caused by excessive air; Gasoline is somewhat toxic—never sniff it directly. To check for gasoline deterioration, use the evaporation method to smell it; Never leave rags used for wiping the fuel tank in visible sunlight areas inside the vehicle cabin to avoid spontaneous combustion hazards; In high-temperature conditions.
I've always been curious about this. A standard oil barrel typically holds 42 US gallons, which converts to approximately 159 liters. This number originates from the traditions of the petroleum industry, established in the late 19th century for convenient transportation and storage. In car maintenance, we often encounter these barrels, such as when changing engine oil—one barrel can service several vehicles. I recall from my car repair experience that using it to measure oil helped avoid waste. It's also important to note that there might be slight variations in different regions, but this standard is internationally recognized. Don't overlook practical usage: oil can degrade if stored too long, so regular checks are necessary. In short, remembering the 159-liter figure is quite practical for daily maintenance and environmental protection.