Drum and Fire Test
On June 24, 1998 the SSCI signed an agreement with the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), San Antonio, Texas, to conduct a series of full-scale fire testing of 55-gallon steel drums filled with heptane (a Class IB flammable liquid) and fitted with relieving-style plugs. The purpose of these tests was to show the pressure relieving capabilities of nylon closures and to support a change in NFPA 30, the Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, to allow greater stacking heights for the storage of flammable liquids in steel drums.
The testing program, collected data on the ability of sprinkler systems, both all-water and foam-water sprinklers (AFFF), to suppress fires in 2-high and 3-high drum storage. The initial tests were so successful that an additional series of tests with drums stacked 4-high were perrformed. The successful completion of the tests earned a change in NFPA 30 to allow stacking of palletized 55-gallon steel drums equipped with relieving-style plugs and in a properly protected storage area to have a stacking height of 3- or 4-high.
For more information, see our brochure What is NFPA 30? What Can It Do For Me?
To view the video "Steel Containers: Testing to New Heights" please select low-res or high-res from the links below.