ISO 20848-1:2006

Overview

ISO 20848-1:2006 specifies the characteristics and dimensions for removable head (open head) plastics drums with a nominal capacity of 113.6 L to 220 L. The standard defines key dimensional limits, marking and material identification, closure and handling features, and methods for measuring brimful and total capacity. It supports consistent design, safe handling and transport, and continued reuse of plastics drums across international supply chains.

Key Topics

• Scope and drum types: Applies to removable-head (open head, OH) plastics drums with nominal capacities from 113.6 L to 220 L.
• Dimensions and tolerances: Specifies overall diameter, minimum opening and overall height for the defined nominal capacities, with stated production tolerances (intended potential reduction after review).
• Capacity definitions and measurement:
  • Brimful capacity (BC) and total capacity (TC) are defined.
  • Annex A: Gravimetric method for capacity measurement (weigh water-filled drum, apply temperature correction factors).
• Drum mass: Mass tolerance shall be ±3% (mass to be agreed between purchaser and supplier).
• Materials and marking:
  • Drums are to be made from HDPE or other suitable plastics; non-plastics may be used in combination where appropriate.
  • Annex B: International material identification code symbols (e.g., PE-HD, PP, PET).
  • All plastic components (excluding gaskets) must be permanently marked with the material symbol.
• Closures and tamper evidence:
  • Closure system = lid plus closing ring or equivalent.
  • Closure should provide tamper evidence and be compatible with plug/bung systems per ISO 20848-3.
• Handling, stacking and finish:
  • Designed for mechanical handling and stacking per manufacturer guidance.
  • External finish must be suitable for labelling; standard body colour recommended as blue unless otherwise agreed.

Applications

ISO 20848-1 is used by:

• Drum manufacturers designing open-head plastics drums to international dimensional standards.
• Packaging engineers specifying drums for industrial liquid and solid products.
• Procurement teams ensuring interchangeability and supplier compliance.
• Logistics and warehouse operators for handling, stacking and storage planning.
• Hazardous goods shippers and regulators, where drum dimensions and closures influence UN/IMO/ICAO transport certification and marking.
• Recycling and reuse programs relying on material identification and consistent drum geometry.

Practical benefits include improved compatibility with filling equipment, safer transport and handling, consistent labelling, and easier global trade of packaged products.

Related Standards

• ISO 20848-2: Non-removable head (tight head) drums (208.2 L and 220 L)
• ISO 20848-3: Plug/bung closure systems for 113.6 L to 220 L drums
• Transport regulations: UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, ICAO Technical Instructions, IMO IMDG Code (when used for dangerous goods)

Keywords: ISO 20848-1, plastics drums, removable head, open head drums, HDPE drum, brimful capacity, capacity measurement, drum dimensions, drum closures, material identification.