An empty 25-litre plastic water jerry can weighs approximately 0.95 kilograms (2.09 lbs). When completely filled with 25 litres of water, its total weight becomes around 25.95 kilograms (57.21 lbs).
Understanding Jerry Can Weights
The weight of a water jerry can can vary depending on its material, capacity, and whether it's empty or full. Our focus here is on a common 25-litre plastic jerry can, a popular choice for various applications due to its durability and relatively light empty weight.
Empty Jerry Can Weight
The tare weight, or the weight of the jerry can itself without any contents, is a crucial factor for transport and storage. For a standard 25-litre stackable plastic jerry can, engineered for reliability and often UN-approved for hazardous materials (though used here for water), the empty weight is quite manageable.
- Empty Weight: 0.95 kg (2.09 lbs)
This lightweight design makes it easy to handle and stack when not in use.
Full Jerry Can Weight Calculation
When filled with water, the total weight dramatically increases. Water has a density of approximately 1 kilogram per litre at standard temperatures. Therefore, calculating the full weight is a straightforward addition of the can's weight and the water's weight.
- Capacity: 25 litres
- Weight of water (approx.): 25 litres * 1 kg/litre = 25 kg
- Total Full Weight: 0.95 kg (can) + 25 kg (water) = 25.95 kg (57.21 lbs)
This substantial weight highlights the importance of proper lifting techniques and secure transport when handling full jerry cans.
Key Specifications of a 25-Litre Plastic Jerry Can
To provide a clear picture, here are typical specifications for a 25-litre plastic jerry can:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Empty Weight | 0.95 kg |
| Height | 458 mm |
| Capacity | 25 Litres (5.5 Gallons) |
| Colour | Red |
Factors Influencing Jerry Can Weight
While the 25-litre plastic jerry can is a common standard, several factors can cause variations in weight:
- Material:
- Plastic Jerry Cans: Typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), these are lighter and more resistant to rust than metal alternatives. They are often used for water, fuel, and other liquids.
- Metal Jerry Cans: Traditional metal jerry cans (often steel) are significantly heavier even when empty but offer superior puncture resistance and durability, especially for fuel storage in rugged conditions.
- Capacity: Jerry cans come in various sizes, from small 5-litre containers to larger 30-litre versions. Naturally, larger capacities mean both a heavier empty can and a much heavier full can.
- Design and Features: Special features like thicker walls for added durability, UN approval for transport of dangerous goods, or specific stacking mechanisms can add marginal weight.
Practical Implications and Uses
Understanding the weight of water jerry cans is vital for various applications:
- Camping and Outdoor Adventures: Knowing the weight helps in planning how much water to carry and how to transport it efficiently. A 25-litre jerry can full of water is heavy to carry by hand for long distances.
- Emergency Preparedness: For emergency water storage, the weight dictates handling and placement. Multiple full jerry cans can quickly accumulate significant weight.
- Vehicle Transport: Securing jerry cans in a vehicle is crucial. Their weight, especially when full, can shift during transit, posing a safety risk if not properly restrained. Always ensure they are tied down to prevent movement.
- Storage Solutions: When stacking jerry cans, consider the load-bearing capacity of shelves or storage areas. The weight of stacked, full jerry cans can be substantial.
For safe handling, it's always recommended to use appropriate lifting techniques or assistance when moving full jerry cans.
