ISO 20848-2:2006

Overview

ISO 20848-2:2006 specifies the characteristics and dimensions for non‑removable head (tight head) plastics drums with nominal capacities of 208.2 l and 220 l. The standard defines dimensional tolerances, marking, material identification, closure and handling requirements, and includes normative test methods (Annex A–C) for capacity measurement, draining performance and material coding. ISO 20848-2 supports consistent design, safe handling and global interchangeability of large plastics drums used in industry and transport.

Key Topics

• Scope & classification
  • Applies to tight‑head plastics drums (openings ≤ 70 mm) with nominal capacities of 208.2 l and 220 l.
• Dimensions & tolerances
  • Overall diameters, overall heights and bung housing positions are specified with tolerances to ensure compatibility for filling, handling and storage.
• Drum mass
  • Mass tolerance is ±3% (to be agreed between purchaser and supplier).
• Materials & marking
  • Typical material: high‑density polyethylene (HDPE) or other suitable plastics; drums must carry a permanent material identification symbol (Annex C).
• Closures
  • Two closures required in accordance with ISO 20848‑3 (plug/bung systems); closures must not protrude above the overall height and must provide tamper evidence.
• Draining & residue
  • Design should minimize residual liquid; residue after specified draining test (Annex B) shall be ≤ 100 ml (when tested per B.3).
• Handling & stacking
  • Provision for one or two fixed handling rings and capability for stacking per manufacturer recommendations.
• Test methods
  • Annex A: gravimetric capacity measurement method (brimful and total capacity).
  • Annex B: draining test procedures for top section and complete drum.
  • Annex C: international material code symbols.

Applications

ISO 20848-2 is practical for:

• Drum manufacturers designing tight‑head plastics drums to global dimensions and marking rules.
• Packaging engineers specifying drums for industrial liquids, chemicals and bulk products.
• Quality assurance & procurement teams ensuring supplier conformity and interchangeability.
• Logistics and warehousing for safe handling, stacking and storage planning.
• Regulatory compliance when drums are used to transport hazardous/dangerous goods (in conjunction with UN, ICAO and IMO transport regulations).

Related standards

• ISO 20848‑1 (open head drums)
• ISO 20848‑3 (plug/bung closure systems)
• ISO 16104 (closure torque tolerances referenced)
• UN Recommendations / ICAO / IMO IMDG Code (transport of dangerous goods)

Keywords: ISO 20848-2, plastics drums, tight head drums, 208.2 l, 220 l, drum dimensions, capacity measurement, draining test, closure systems, HDPE packaging standard.