This article covers the many aspects of burn barrels and their use.
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A burn barrel is a metal drum that has been adapted for the incineration of combustible waste and other materials. Designed with safety and efficiency in mind, burn barrels provide a practical solution for disposing of flammable substances, helping to reduce landfill waste.
Traditionally, burn barrels are used in remote or rural areas where regular trash collection services are unavailable. However, with evolving regulations, their use has become more regulated and is increasingly found in more populated regions with stringent guidelines for their operation.
In remote areas, traditional methods of waste disposal such as burying trash or open burning were once common. As societies have developed and environmental standards have tightened, these practices have become less acceptable and environmentally harmful. Burn barrels offer a safer and more eco-friendly alternative, providing an effective solution for managing waste in a way that aligns with modern ecological standards.
The typical burn barrel is made from a worn out 55 gallon drum that has appropriately been reconfigured and prepared to contain waste materials for burning. Although smaller sized drums can be used for that purpose, they require constant supervision and need to be emptied frequently. Additionally, smaller drums pose a significant danger and a risk of hot debris escaping outside the containment area.
Burn barrels are an effective and safe tool for disposing of unwanted combustible materials, provided that proper procedures are followed to ensure the safety of both users and the surrounding environment.
Historically, open burning was the primary method for disposing of combustible waste. However, as awareness of air pollution and environmental contaminants has increased, regulations have been introduced to restrict and closely monitor open burning. In the United States, each state and county has specific procedures that must be followed to obtain permission for burning waste materials. Typically, the process is straightforward and involves contacting a local official to secure the necessary authorization.
While a burn barrel may appear to be a simple tool for burning unwanted trash and waste, it is crucial to use it correctly to ensure safety and effectiveness. Overloading a burn barrel with trash and igniting it without proper precautions can lead to significant problems. To ensure safe and proper use of a burn barrel, following specific steps is essential.
Traditional burn barrels, once commonly 55-gallon drums, have evolved into various configurations and designs. This evolution has expanded the functionality and application of burn barrels, accommodating a broader range of needs and improving their overall effectiveness.
A yard waste burn barrel is an excellent solution for burning tree trimmings, grass, and wood. Open burning of yard waste is often discouraged by governmental agencies and neighbors due to concerns about safety and pollution. A burn barrel helps control the burning process and contains any fragments, reducing the risk of issues in the surrounding area.
When deciding to burn yard waste in a burn barrel, it’s important to consider several factors. Firstly, be aware of the types of materials being burned and avoid incinerating plants that might be toxic or poisonous. If you're unsure about a plant's safety, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Additionally, yard waste should be completely dry before burning, as wet or moist material produces excessive smoke.
To ensure efficient burning, yard waste should be broken into pieces that fit easily into the burn barrel. This involves cutting branches, limbs, and clippings into portions smaller than the barrel's diameter. Prior to lighting the fire, the area around the burn barrel should be soaked with water to minimize the risk of fire spreading.
Only yard waste should be burned in the barrel; avoid mixing in junk mail, household waste, cartons, or paper products. After burning, ensure that all materials in the barrel are fully extinguished. Soak the remnants and check for any remaining embers to prevent any potential fire hazards.
This type of burn barrel, made from trash cans, is available at home improvement and hardware stores. Unlike traditional 55-gallon drum burn barrels, galvanized garden incinerators offer an alternative method for disposing of yard waste. These incinerators are designed for burning yard materials and paper products and are suitable for use in more populated areas.
Galvanized garden incinerators are made from metal treated with a zinc coating, which protects the metal from rust and withstands high temperatures. This treatment enhances the durability of the incinerators. However, it is important to note that the zinc coating can release toxic fumes if the incinerator is heated to very high temperatures for extended periods. To ensure safe use, it's crucial to monitor the temperature and avoid excessive heating.
A functional burn barrel features a traditional design with several unique elements that enhance its performance and safety:
As the temperature rises, the materials inside the burn barrel are incinerated.
Aside from this heat-related functionality, the design of most available burn barrels remains consistent with traditional models, including their capacity to handle and burn refuse effectively.
Another variant of burn barrels is the 20-gallon trash can, specifically designed for use in more populated areas. While it resembles a standard 20-gallon galvanized trash can, it incorporates several modifications to enhance its functionality.
The compact size of the 20-gallon trash can makes it easy to handle and position. Unique features include legs attached to the bottom for stability and multiple holes punched along the sides for ventilation. Unlike traditional burn barrels, this variant includes a solid lid to prevent burnt materials from escaping. The perforations ensure proper airflow and allow smoke to dissipate effectively.
Traditionally, burn barrels are made from used or new 55 gallon drums. They can be fabricated in a backyard, barn, or warehouse following safety directions. About 20 years ago, a burn specialist company developed a portable stainless steel burn barrel that is easy to install and move and is designed to burn combustibles at exceptionally high temperatures.
The sides of a stainless steel burn barrel are made of vented stainless steel that is curved and welded into a barrel shape. The resilience of stainless steel makes it possible to reach temperatures of 1600°F. The vented lid is held in place by brackets that prevent it from being removed during burning.
Stainless steel burn barrels offer versatile functionality, capable of handling a range of tasks from burning yard waste and household combustibles to serving as outdoor fireplaces.
The burn cage is in conjunction with the stainless steel burn barrel, similar to a stainless steel burn barrel but a rectangular shape. The sides of a burning cage are made of rectangular-shaped flat sheets of vented stainless steel. In the form of a flat square, the lid is punched with evenly spaced holes for ventilation and for preventing the escape of burned materials and ash.
The concept of the burn cage emerged as a solution to the issues and risks associated with traditional burn barrels. The burn cage features perforated stainless steel sides that enhance airflow and ventilation, enabling it to burn hotter and more efficiently, resulting in a more thorough disposal of materials.
The traditional burn barrel marks the origin of burn barrel design. Initially developed to manage waste material without the need for burial or open burning, the traditional burn barrel starts with a 55-gallon drum. Ventilation holes are punched into its sides, and the drum is then placed on a platform made of cinder blocks, metal, or stones to ensure proper airflow. The top of the burn barrel can be covered with various materials, such as bent metal sheets, wire mesh, punched metal sheets, or even a cage.
Traditional burn barrels can be either a DIY project or purchased from hardware and home improvement stores. Once in place, they are rarely moved and often accumulate ash, which must be disposed of after use.
Burn barrels, despite their different types, generally share a common design that ensures proper ventilation, containment of combustibles, and safety. Typically, these barrels start with a basic container, with the 55-gallon drum being one of the most prevalent examples.
While the 55-gallon drum has long been the standard for burn barrels, recent advancements have led to the creation of various burn barrels made from materials designed to effectively manage the combustion process.
Traditionally, burn barrels are constructed from 55-gallon drums. While this has been the conventional choice, today’s burn barrels come in various sizes, ranging from 20 gallons to more than 55 gallons.
Acquiring a 55-gallon drum can be done through several methods. Buying a used barrel is often the most cost-effective option, and sometimes it can be obtained at no cost. However, caution is needed as these barrels may have previously contained hazardous materials such as chemicals, solvents, or fuels, which can be problematic.
If opting for a used barrel, it is crucial to thoroughly clean it to eliminate any residual hazardous substances. Many online resources provide cleaning instructions. Alternatively, purchasing a barrel from a company that specializes in cleaning and refurbishing burn barrels is advisable, as they ensure the barrel is free from dangerous materials through a thorough multi-stage process.
Be aware that if the burn barrel has been coated with paint or an exterior finish, this material will likely burn off during the initial use.
A 55-gallon drum can have a sealed top and bottom that has been welded to form a tight connection. Other 55 gallon drums have a removable lid sealed with a snap-on clamp. A welded-on cover has to be cut away with a torch, saw, or barrel opener tool that works like a giant can opener. Regardless of how the lid is removed, it should be kept on hand for possible further use.
Effective use of a burn barrel relies heavily on proper airflow and ventilation, which provides the necessary oxygen for combustion. While quality 55-gallon drums are designed to be tightly sealed to prevent spills and leaks, this feature must be modified for burn barrels. To ensure adequate airflow, it is necessary to drill multiple holes around the cylindrical surface and bottom of the barrel.
The ventilation holes should be sufficiently large to maintain continuous air circulation, yet small enough to contain burning materials. Holes with a diameter between half an inch and three-quarters of an inch are ideal. They should be evenly distributed around the bottom and sides of the barrel, with the total number of holes ranging from 10 to over 30, depending on the barrel's size and design.
It’s important to note that drilling holes can compromise the structural integrity of the metal. Frequent and prolonged use of a burn barrel can lead to structural degradation and potential collapse. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly inspect burn barrels, especially those used continuously for eight to ten months, and replace them if necessary to maintain safety.
The cover of a burn barrel plays a crucial role in preventing burning debris from escaping. There are various methods to create or obtain a cover, ranging from DIY solutions to purchasing pre-made screens. The key consideration for an effective cover is ensuring it fits securely on top of the barrel, allowing smoke to escape while keeping larger pieces of waste contained.
Typically, the lids of burn barrels are removed from the top of sealed drums and then recycled. It’s uncommon to find a burn barrel with an attached lid, so a separate lid must usually be acquired. Round lids that match the shape of the barrel tend to provide a more secure fit and are preferred. While other shapes can work, it is important to select a lid that will stay in place despite the force of burning materials. The choice of lid is a critical safety measure and should be carefully considered.
In some regions, regulations mandate the use of grid-type covers for burn barrels, especially in areas prone to wildfires. These regulations often specify the size of the grid openings and the thickness of the cover. It’s important to research local burn barrel cover regulations before making a purchase, as this information is typically available through local or state authorities.
Below are a few examples of methods used to cover a burn barrel.
Supporting a burn barrel correctly is crucial for its safe and effective use. A fundamental guideline is to place the burn barrel on a level surface to prevent any tilting or uneven positioning. Often, users will prepare the ground by compacting it to eliminate any potential unevenness.
One common approach to support a burn barrel is to place it on four cinder blocks arranged evenly around the base, ensuring enough space for proper airflow. Alternatively, if the burn barrel is positioned directly on the ground, other methods can be used to ensure adequate ventilation underneath.
Vented burn barrels can be placed directly on the ground. These barrels feature square vents cut into the bottom edge of the cylindrical body, allowing for proper ventilation. Additionally, holes are drilled along the sides to insert rods that help support and manage the burning materials.
While burn barrels are convenient, reliable, and effective, it is crucial to handle them with utmost care. There are several important considerations to take into account when deciding to use a burn barrel.
Although it might be tempting to burn any material in a burn barrel, it is essential to select only appropriate items for disposal. Consider what materials are safe to burn and which should be taken to a more suitable disposal facility. The primary factor to evaluate is the type of smoke produced by the material and whether it could be toxic.
The most critical aspect of setting up a burn barrel is selecting the proper location, which is key to ensuring its safe and effective use. The burn barrel should be placed on level, solid ground that is away from trees, buildings, vehicles, and any flammable materials. When the barrel is in use, keep any waste intended for burning at a safe distance until it is ready to be processed.
Ensuring safety and protecting the surrounding environment are essential when using a burn barrel. It should be positioned at least 30 feet away from any structures, materials, tools, or combustible substances. While a flat, firm surface is necessary, avoid locations that are exposed to strong winds or have overhead obstructions. The area around the burn barrel should be cleared of combustible materials such as dry grass, branches, or weeds. Ideally, the ground should be bare dirt to minimize fire risk and ensure the safest conditions.
A burn barrel should be filled to about halfway, with larger items placed at the bottom and smaller items added on top. Avoid overloading the barrel or filling it to the top, as this can cause debris to be expelled during burning. Materials intended for burning should be kept at least 30 feet away from the burn barrel. Allow the contents to burn down completely before adding more materials.
When igniting the burn barrel with a match, place the match on the small, flammable materials at the top of the waste. It may take a few attempts to get the fire going. Using a long-stemmed lighter, such as those designed for lighting barbecues, is preferable as it allows you to light the material from a safe distance.
If you’re having trouble starting the fire, you might need to add some kindling to help. However, safety experts strongly advise against using accelerants like kerosene, gasoline, or lighter fluid, as these can be extremely dangerous and should be avoided.
Having a fire extinguisher or similar safety equipment on hand is crucial. Many people keep a water hose nearby as a precaution. If you choose to use a fire extinguisher, ensure it is rated for the type of materials you plan to burn to ensure effective control in case of an emergency.
Trash and waste should be sorted based on their combustibility and potential hazards. Items like paint cans, cleaning products, aerosol cans, and plastics should be taken to a designated hazardous waste disposal facility. Food scraps and leftovers can be composted, which could be done using another 55-gallon drum. Acceptable burnable waste can be collected in various ways, depending on available space and storage capacity.
Burn barrel use and the materials that can be burned are regulated by local, county, and state authorities. It is important to review these rules and regulations carefully before using a burn barrel. Depending on your location, you may need to obtain a permit, as requirements can vary significantly from one place to another.
Proper storage of a burn barrel is also crucial for safety. When the burn barrel is not in use, remove any mesh, screen, or lid and set it aside. Place a solid metal sheet over the top of the barrel to protect it from rain and snow, which helps prevent rusting. With appropriate maintenance, a burn barrel can last up to five years with regular use.
Proper disposal of ashes from a burn barrel is important for its effective operation. It is essential to remove ashes from the bottom or underneath the barrel after each use. The method of disposing of these ashes can vary by region. Options include adding them to compost piles, using them as plant bedding, or scattering them on the ground. The key is to ensure that the ashes are regularly removed from the burn barrel to maintain its efficiency.
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