Uniseals ok for bottom of 55g drum?

[SteveG_inDC]

Setting up a saltwater mixing station and I have my 55g drums elevated a few inches off the ground. Can I use unisealls or should I buy proper bulkheads or just drill the holes near the bottom but on the side wall of the drums?

 

[fcmatt]

For a curved surface isn't a uniseal preferred? And if it was me I would want it on the side so I could inspect it down the road and not suck up bottom of the barrel crud over time

 

[fcmatt]

Here. This might help u decide

How To Properly Install a Uniseal - BRStv How-To

Uniseals are essentially bulkheads that can conform to rounded objects like buckets, trash cans, and even PVC pipe. The exclusive design allows the rubber bulkhead to create a leak proof seal without the use of any solvents or sealants. Uniseals are commonly used for saltwater mixing stations...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

 

[SteveG_inDC]

Thanks. I'm planning to put the two 23" diameter drums next to each other on the bottom shelf of a 48" wide shelving unit. It will be tight so I was hoping to use the space under the shelf. I can have all the plumbing and the pump out in front though. That makes sense in terms of inspection and repair.

 

[fcmatt]

Just curious what the few inch high shelf is made from? Steel? 55 g times 2 is a lot of weight. If it sagged it could crack piping over time.

I see no reason why you can't go from the bottom. It just makes me personally uncomfortable is all. Wherever I cannot inspect or easily get to is bound to be the place it will leak from. Just my luck

 

[dreamcatcherr9]

I’ve heard both. That Uniseal better for curved surface. But if a we are talking Brute trash cans, I have also heard bulkheads work just fine and are probably better to use. The debate continues...

 

[SteveG_inDC]

Just curious what the few inch high shelf is made from? Steel? 55 g times 2 is a lot of weight. If it sagged it could crack piping over time.

It's a steel frame from Home Depot with wire mesh shelves, rated for 1,000 lbs per shelf. The water should weigh just under that.

55g fresh x 8.34 lbs/gallon + 55g saltwater x 8.6 lbs/gallon = 931.7. The drums each weigh 22 lbs, so that 975.7. I was thinking of putting down a piece of plywood to better distribute the weight. Yeah, cutting it close! If it causes problems I'll just lower my float valve and fill the bins to 45g each.

 

[nezw0001]

I did essentially what your are proposing, but with a wooden stand, at my old house. Zero problems for 10 years.