Closure ring assembly for steel drums

Abstract

Interlocking end lugs are provided in an improved closure split ring assembly for steel drums. The interlocking end lugs facilitate the tangential alignment of the ring to seal the lid on the drum and lock it in place.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention is directed to closure assemblies for steel drums that are used for transporting non-bulk materials. In particular, this invention is directed to an improved closure ring assembly capable of ensuring that the drum remains secure and leakproof during transit. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Conventional closure ring assemblies for drums include a split closure ring having adjacent ends with lugs on each end. One of the lugs has an unthreaded hole and the other lug has a threaded hole for receiving a conventional bolt. When the lid of the drum is secured to its opening, the closure ring is placed around the lid and the bolt is inserted through the unthreaded hole of one of the lugs to engage the threaded hole of the other lug. As the threaded bolt engages the threaded hole, the ends of the closure ring are drawn together to tighten the closure ring around the lid and the drum. [0003] Organizations have developed packaging standards that ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a better closure ring assembly for steel drums that has interlocking end lugs for sealing the lid on the drum and locking it in place. This design ensures a tighter connection between the closure ring and the drum, and meets industry standards for hydrostatic and drop tests. The interlocking end lugs also prevent unwanted movement of the closure ring in both the radial and axial directions. Overall, this invention improves the sealing of steel drums and provides a more reliable and effective closure ring assembly."

Problems solved by technology

Typically, because of the excessive radial clearance between the tie bolt and the enlarged opening of the unthreaded lug, the ends of the closed split ring are prone to separation and movement under impact.

This causes ring distortion and seal failure eventually leading to leakage, container failure and possible contamination of both the storage container and its surroundings.

While the designs of existing patents have sought to address and overcome the common problem discussed above, there still remain difficulties with the conventional closure ring assemblies in achieving a tight connection between the closure ring and the drum, thereby complying with vibration, drop and hydrostatic test standards.

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