Process Methodology

Today's reconditioning systems are capable of processing a wide variety of packaging types and residual products to a very high standard.

The Department for Transport, through the VCA, operate a UN Certification Scheme for Reconditioning Steel Drums and Plastic Drums. This includes a structured audit of each registered reconditioner to check;  ISO 9001 Accredited Quality Procedures, Staff Training, Operator Knowledge, Equipment Maintenance and Calibration, Operating Procedures and Record Keeping.

The most popular and effective cleaning systems make use of specialised machinery designed to carry the container types, including small kegs, drums and IBCs, through enclosed wash systems. Effective cleaning requires the use of a heated cleaning solution which is suited to the range of contaminants needing to be removed.

The most popular medium is a Sodium Hydroxide Solution (Caustic Soda), which is widely regarded as a  Universal Cleaning Agent. This is typically a solution of approximately 5% - 10% dependant on nature of product to be cleaned. An alternative wash medium commonly used is Potassium Hydroxide (Caustic Potash) also at 5% - 10% which has similar cleaning properties but presents a reduced safety risk compared to Caustic Soda. Both caustic solutions have the added benefit of acting as a corrosion inhibitor for the process machinery.

Although the temeperature can be varied to suit the product being removed, it is normal to heat the wash solution between 50 - 80 degrees Celcius to ensure an effective cleansing action is achieved.

The wash process will typically be followed by comprehensive drying and inspection to check the effectiveness of the washing and drying process, plus a cross check on the UN marking of the container to ensure it meets with the customer requirement.

Leakproofness Testing is carried out to meet the requirements of the UN & ADR Regulations with 0.2 bar for drums intended for use with Packing Groups II & III and 0.3 bar used for drums intended for Packing Group I products.

Go Back