What happens to a bbl after years?
Have you ever wondered what happens to a bbl (barrel) after years? Whether it’s an oil barrel or a whiskey barrel, these containers have a finite lifespan. So, what exactly happens to them over time? Let’s dive in and find out.
The Anatomy of a Bbl
Before we delve into the topic at hand, allow me to give you some details about the anatomy of a bbl. A standard oil barrel is made up of several parts:
- Crown: The top part where liquid enters and exits.
- Chime: The curvature that helps hold things inside.
- Belly or Bilge: The middle section where most of the liquid will rest.
- Handholds: Places for people to grip when transporting or storing the barrels.
- Head or Bunghole: This area is on both sides so that alternative storage options are available
On the other end of things, whiskey barrels have different components:
- Staves– These are slats placed upright around the perimeter of each tank making up its walls.
- Banner– A metal brace holding staves together with hoops
- Hoop – They keep everything good till eternity
- Heads – When held separately they create an opening called bungholes
Both kinds share similarities like chimes for sturdy support.
Made from Wood, Metal & More
Barrrels were mostly used as shipping material but their uses seem limitless beyond that too! Some could be used even as decoration pieces giving out aesthetic vibes since they range in sizes; 55 gallons being very popular.
An interesting fact I’d love to share is how oak was favorited basically because it does not imbue odours which means instead it enhances complexity but clamps down anything vile . Many manufacturers choose American white oaks due olors while Europeans prefer Eastern European forests’ trees owning this realm . On another note, metals like steel, plastic and aluminium have been befitting alternatives as they are lightweight or resistant to oxidation but barrels made from these materials have their disadvantages like being less durable.
Life Span
As time passes by, the bbl has quite a journey. Since they’re essential in various industries, how long do you think they last? A standard storage barrel can last around 10-20 years which is mind-boggling given the roughness of an industrial environment! While many factors determine a bbl’s lifespan, there’s no fixed duration for it.
Several environmental factors determine the longevity of these sturdy containers:
Temperature: Extreme Heat and Cold Aren’t Suitable for Bbls
Temperature varies based on geographical location so maintaining consistency becomes burdensome; fluctuation playing havoc on the barrel . Increased temperature causes liquids inside to expand while cold makes them shrink , both over time significantly affecting metal seals clamped tightly onto staves causing corrosion on contact points that later lead to spillage .
Humidity levels also contribute enormously since moisture leads to mould growth or warping posing problems too!
Be alert friends: maintain suitable temperatures always
Light Exposure Harms Liquids Inside and Fades Exterior
Light exposure affects materials tremendously! Prolonged sunlight introduces harmful UV rays into liquids causing premature ageing even spoiling contents when not intended; this is mostly witnessed with clear barrels housing substances such as beer. It will cause yellowing if exposed longer durations thus deterioration accelerates making protective covering all more necessary. This calls for painted coatings over metallic surfaces.
To keep alcohols well preserved always cover them from light
Chemical Reactions Can Harm Plastic Barrels Over Time
Chemically reactive substances used in sealing pipe ends mesh poorly with high-density foods stored inside plastic tanks leading faulty food quality going out endangering health in consumers who consume distorted products having prolonged microscopic exposure to chemicals.
Not all barrels are safe:nothing but food grade plastic with high thickness is preferable
Maintenance
However sturdy or versatile a bbl may seem it requires consistent maintenance for optimal durability.
Cleaning Bbls Helps Them Stay Durable
Oil residue inside can go bad if not drained storing lumps of unusable fuel which could delay future operations and take-on more cleaning charges than anticipated costing in result . This means regular washing makes them spotless required because impurities have harmful effects on the liquid contents degrading quality almost instantly . Done properly, this ups longevity many times over! By way of removing substances that react harshly on staves and reducing build-up lessens their removal load.
Proper oil spout care after disuse goes a long way contributing greatly to lifespan. Rust breaking oils help keep corrosion at bay while keeping sealants minimal thus maximising the intended use duration by several years!
Moisture Control & Eliminating Strain Keeps Your Barrel Sturdy
As we mentioned earlier, moisture levels fluctuate hence drying off both ends post-filli; humidity damaging structures severely from within. Inappropriately stacked or maintained storage areas subject bbls to gravity causing constant force affecting outer structure given time destabilises structurally making them delicate or even unusable.Avoid stacking one above another always placing single stacks around corners for best results especially sensitive transportation!.
In conclusion, your barrel’s lifespan varies based on how its being transported/maintained and what its made out of so choose wisely!. Choose those that factor in environmental aspects such as temperature, light etc.. Opting for durable materials like oak will positively impact the chances of owning everlasting experience but If any problems arise you know how well-equipped you are see through it without much trouble!