Rubber Process Oil (RPO) plays a major role in making rubber soft, workable, and long-lasting. While its importance in rubber compounding is widely known, the way it is stored and shipped also matters a lot. One of the most efficient and trusted methods is RPO in drums. These containers not only protect the oil but also help manufacturers use and move it more easily.
In this article, we’ll explore why RPO in drums has become a top choice for industries, how it works, and why suppliers like Basekim are trusted around the world.
What Is RPO and Why Does Packaging Matter?
Rubber Process Oil is a petroleum-based oil use to improve the processing of rubber. It helps rubber compounds mix better, reduces friction during molding, and increases the flexibility of the final product. RPO is essential in producing tires, belts, hoses, gaskets, and many other rubber goods.
Although RPO is a high-quality industrial oil, it is sensitive to contamination, moisture, and heat. Therefore, how it is packaged becomes very important. Storing RPO in drums helps companies avoid leaks, damage, and quality loss during transportation and storage.
Types of RPO: Understanding What Goes in the Drums
Before choosing a drum of RPO, you need to understand the types of oil available. The three main types of RPO are:
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Aromatic RPO: Contains a high level of aromatic compounds. Used for products that need high flexibility.
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Paraffinic RPO: Has high resistance to heat and oxidation. Preferred in warm climates.
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Naphthenic RPO: Offers a good balance between performance and cost. Often used in general-purpose rubber products.
Each type serves a specific use case, so industries choose the right one based on the performance they need. Regardless of type, packaging the oil in sealed steel drums helps maintain its quality from factory to factory.
Why Choose RPO in Drums?
1. Better Protection
One of the biggest reasons for choosing drums is protection. These steel containers prevent exposure to air, dust, and water. As a result, the RPO stays pure and stable for longer periods.
2. Easier Transportation
Drums are stackable, rollable, and easy to lift with forklifts. As a result, companies can move them easily in warehouses, ports, and production areas. In international shipping, drums meet most global packaging standards, making them ideal for export.
3. Safer Handling
RPO can be slippery and flammable, so safe handling is key. Fortunately, drums are designed to reduce risk. Their tight seals and strong material reduce spills and accidents. They also allow for easier portioning, so workers can use only what they need without wasting product.
4. Cleaner Storage
Drums help keep industrial workspaces cleaner. Unlike open tanks or plastic containers, sealed drums don’t leak or evaporate. This means less cleanup, fewer safety hazards, and more organized storage.
Basekim: A Trusted Supplier of RPO in Drums
Choosing the right product is only half the battle. Just as important is selecting the right supplier. That’s where Basekim comes in. With years of experience and a strong reputation in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, Basekim provides high-quality RPO in drums for a wide range of industries.
Here’s what makes Basekim stand out:
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Certified Quality: Basekim’s RPO products comply with international standards such as REACH and RoHS.
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Reliable Packaging: The drums are made from rust-resistant steel and sealed with precision.
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Fast Delivery: Thanks to a global network, orders arrive on time, whether by sea, land, or air.
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Technical Support: Clients get help with choosing the right RPO type and managing usage safely.
Common Industries That Use RPO in Drums
Because of their convenience, drums are widely used across many sectors. These include:
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Tire Manufacturing: RPO makes rubber more elastic and easier to shape.
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Footwear Production: It adds flexibility to soles and reduces production cost.
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Rubber Gaskets and Seals: RPO improves sealing strength and extends product life.
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Conveyor Belts and Hoses: Drums make it easier to store large amounts of RPO near production lines.
In each of these sectors, drums help keep production smooth and storage costs low.
Drum Sizes and Options
Not all drums are the same. Most suppliers, including Basekim, offer several sizes:
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200-liter steel drums (standard)
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IBC tanks (for larger bulk orders)
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Smaller metal pails (for limited use or samples)
Depending on the buyer’s needs, these can be shipped on pallets, in containers, or as part of a mixed cargo.
How to Store RPO Drums Properly
Even though drums protect the oil, you still need to store them the right way:
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Keep them in cool, dry places
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Avoid direct sunlight
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Use pallets to lift them off the ground
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Check seals regularly for leaks
By following these simple tips, companies can maintain oil quality for months or even years.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Now more than ever, industries focus on safety and environmental impact. The good news is that Basekim’s drums are recyclable. After the oil is used, the containers can be cleaned and reused or sent for metal recycling. This reduces industrial waste.
Also, Basekim offers RPO options that are free from harmful polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)—a major plus for companies that export to regions with strict environmental rules.
Cost Considerations: Is RPO in Drums More Expensive?
Some may think drums cost more than bulk tanks or plastic containers. However, the total cost is often lower in the long run. Why? Because drums:
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Reduce product loss due to leaks
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Lower cleaning costs
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Cut down on safety risks
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Require less equipment for storage and handling
Over time, these savings make drums a smart investment for medium to large-scale manufacturers.
Conclusion: Why Drums Make a Difference
To sum it up, using RPO in drums offers more than just safe storage. It improves handling, lowers risks, protects product quality, and simplifies international shipping. With trusted suppliers like Basekim, companies don’t just buy oil—they invest in reliability, safety, and long-term efficiency.
Whether you manufacture tires, shoes, seals, or industrial belts, the way you handle your RPO matters. So next time you order rubber process oil, think beyond just the product—think about the packaging. Think about the drum.