Drum Heaters

If you've ever tried to pour or pump a thick product out of a drum, you know how much easier the job can be when the material is warmed up. Drum heaters help keep products at a workable temperature so they flow, pour, and dispense more easily. With several heating styles and temperature controls available, you can find an option that works for your drum, your product, and your application.

How Do Drum Heaters Work?

Drum heaters transfer heat into the contents of a drum to help warm materials, reduce viscosity, and improve flow. Different heater styles transfer and control heat differently, so the right choice depends on the container material, product being heated, and desired temperature.

What type of drum heater do I need?

The best drum heater depends on your drum, material, and heating requirements. Band heaters are an economical option for applying heat around the outside of a drum, while immersion heaters place the heating element directly into the product for faster heat transfer. Heating jackets and blankets surround more of the container to provide broader, more even heating.

What is the difference between thermostat and infinite control drum heaters?

Thermostat-controlled heaters sense temperature and cycle the heater on and off based on the selected setting. They are best suited for materials with good heat receptivity that can tolerate higher surface temperatures.

Infinite or pulsating control heaters do not maintain a specific temperature. Instead, they cycle power on and off to provide gentle warming, making them a good choice for heat-sensitive materials such as honey, chocolate, and products that may burn, char, or separate.

Can drum heaters be used on plastic drums?

Only heaters specifically designed for plastic drums should be used. Plastic drum heaters typically operate at lower temperatures to help prevent damage to the container. Always verify that the heater is compatible with your specific drum and material before use.

What is an immersion drum heater?

An immersion heater installs through the drum's bung opening and places the heating surface directly in contact with the product. This direct contact can provide faster, more efficient heat transfer but should only be used with compatible, non-flammable materials that can tolerate direct heat.

Are drum heating jackets different from band heaters?

Yes. Band heaters apply heat to a concentrated area around the drum, while heating jackets and blankets surround more of the container. The additional coverage can provide more even heating and help reduce heat loss.

Can I use a drum heater with flammable materials?

Standard drum heaters should not be used with flammable materials or in hazardous areas unless the heater is specifically designed and rated for that application. Always check the heater specifications and material compatibility before use.

Should drums be vented while heating?

Yes. Drums should be properly vented with an appropriate vent plug while heating to help safely manage pressure changes as the contents warm.

How do I choose the right drum heater?

Consider the drum material and size, the product being heated, desired temperature, heat sensitivity, required heating speed, and operating environment. BASCO offers multiple drum heating options to match different applications, and our Customer Service Experts can help you select the right heater for your container and material.

How can BASCO help?

No matter what kind of drum heating you need to do, make sure that you get expert advice. That's the easy part! BASCO has the best trained and most knowledgeable customer service people in the industry. With our 80+ years of experience in the drum business, we'll help you get the heater you need to get your job done right.