What is a common leak point for a 55-gallon drum?

A common leak point for a 55-gallon drum is the bung. The bung is the closure point used to seal the drum, allowing for filling and dispensing of the contents. Over time, exposure to environmental factors, improper sealing, or threading issues can lead to leaks at this point. Since bungs are frequently opened and closed during drum handling, they are prone to wear and may not always seal perfectly afterward, making them a significant concern for containment.

This understanding is vital, as preventing leaks at applications like this is critical in hazardous materials management. While the other options may also be potential points of concern, they are less frequently associated with leaks compared to the bung. Weld seams could theoretically fail, but these are often the most structurally robust aspects of the drum. The cap and spout are generally designed to be less prone to leak unless improperly maintained or replaced.