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Blanton Clamshell
Closure
An engineer at the Savannah River National
Laboratory (SRNL) has designed and tested a new drum closure device for open-head
steel drums. The device has been proven to show superior drop test performance
under Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) accident scenario conditions.
Market Assessment
Although use of steel drums by commercial shippers has been greatly reduced
by competition from cheaper, lighter plastic, fiber, and other forms of
containers, steel drums are still recommended for the shipment of DOT-regulated
hazardous material. It is estimated that 5 million open-head steel drums
are produced annually in the U.S. for such shipments. In addition there
is a market for recycled drums that would benefit from improved closures.
Its safety and ease-of-use features should make this ring attractive to
these markets.
Patent Status
A U.S. Patent Application has been filed on this invention.
Stage of Development
A working prototype has been developed and undergone extensive testing.
Contact
Eric Frickey, Licensing Associate
(803) 725-0406
eric.frickey@srnl.doe.gov
For More Information
See tech brief.
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