Domestic type (type I). Fiberboard drums covered by this specification are intended for use as domestic shipping containers. Grade A drums are for dry or solid materials. Class 1 regular construction should normally be used; class 2 foil laminated should be used for highly hygroscopic materials needing a barrier, such as desiccants. Use of grade B drums should be limited to semisolid materials having a consistency similar to asphalt, lubricating grease, petrolatum, refractory cement, caulking compounds, roof coatings, adhesives, textile sizing, and food products such as jellies and fondants. The consistency of asphalt materials and lubricating greases should not exceed 350 units when measured in accordance with method 311.6 of FED-STD-791 (ASTM D 217). Class 2 is normally used when high moisture barrier is required or when the type I, grade A, class 2 is supplemental by the aluminum liners it may be used to deter electrostatic charges and prevent explosion. Grade C drums are for nonregulated liquids or articles in liquids.

Type I, grade D. This is also intended for normal overseas shipment as described in 6.1.2. When substituted for type II drums, the drums shall be marked type II, overseas type (nonweather resistant).

Type II overseas (nonweather resistant). Fiberboard drums covered by this specification are intended for use for normal overseas shipment where numerous handlings and storage at destination are not anticipated. Usage factors the same as specified in 6.1.1. They are not to be used for overseas shipment of hazardous material, i.e. , ammunition, explosives, materials subject to restrictions of 49 CFR 100-199.

Type III overseas (weather resistant). Fiberboard drums covered by this specification are intended for unprotected weather exposure usage for added protection in high humidity or outdoor storage environment. They are not to be used for overseas shipment of hazardous material, such as ammunition, explosives, or propellants. They may, however, be used for domestic shipment of these materials subject to restrictions of 49 CFR 100-199.

Exceptional requirement. Exceptional commodities, especially dangerous articles (hazardous material), may require better material and construction requirements than are covered by this specification. In every case, the drums must conform to the specifications prescribed in the Department of Transportation regulation (DOT 49 CFR 100-199) governing the transportation of the particular articles or materials being packed.