Bitumen Logistics: Steel Drums vs. Jumbo Bags – Which Decanting Solution Maximizes Your Profit?

In the international asphalt trade, the method of transporting bitumen determines your equipment needs. For decades, 200kg Steel Drums were the standard. However, in recent years, 1-Ton Jumbo Bags have surged in popularity due to rising steel prices and environmental regulations.

As a contractor or terminal manager, which logistics method should you choose? And more importantly, which Bitumen Melting Machine do you need?

1. The Case for Steel Drums: Durability vs. Waste

Steel drums are robust and easy to stack. However, they come with a hidden cost: Residue.

• The Problem: About 3-5% of bitumen often sticks to the drum walls, especially in cold climates. For a 1,000-ton project, you might waste 30-50 tons of material.

• The Feiteng Solution: Our YDST Series Drum Decanter utilizes a unique "Turnover + Hot Air" technology. By heating the drum from the outside and using high-velocity hot air inside, we ensure the drum is emptied cleanly, minimizing waste.

2. The Case for Jumbo Bags: Eco-Friendly but Tricky?

Jumbo bags are cheaper to ship and leave no solid waste (no empty drums to crush). The challenge is Melting.

• The Problem: You cannot just throw a bag into a tank. You need to cut it and melt the large bitumen block quickly without overheating the polymer liner.

• The Feiteng Solution: The YDLR Series Bag Melter is engineered for this exact purpose.

  • Built-in Hoist: Easily lifts 1-ton blocks.

  • Cutting Knives: Automatically slice the bag bottom.

  • Fast Melting: A dense thermal oil coil matrix at the top creates a "melting grid," rapidly liquefying the block as it falls.

3. Conclusion: Match the Machine to the Logistics

• If your supply chain relies on Drums, choose the YDST or DLT Series for clean, high-speed decanting.

• If you are switching to Jumbo Bags to save freight, the YDLR Series is your essential partner.

At Feiteng, we build containerized solutions for both. Stop wasting material and start optimizing your melting process today.

Contact Us for a Quote on our high-efficiency melting systems.