Sustainability meets performance with new ECO LITE drums
CurTec cares about the future of packaging. In our recent sustainability vision we promise to integrate sustainability into the design process of new CurTec products and to replace the inflow of finite raw materials with biobased and recycled materials. The new ECO LITE drums are the result of that promise.
ECO LITE drums offer the lowest carbon footprint in their class*. With 30% bio-based plastic, optimized design, and a tapered shape, they reduce the use of resources and enhance storage efficiency. Lightweight, strong, and sustainable - perfect for a greener supply chain.
Part biobased plastics
To manufacture ECO LITE drums we use a blend of 30% bio-based plastics and 70% fossil-based plastics. Bio-based plastics are made from a renewable source and are known to be more eco-friendly and to contribute to a lower carbon footprint.
Enhanced design
Clever design choices such as turning mounted handgrips into molded handgrips and replacing the rubber gasket in the lid by an injection molded seal further reduce the carbon footprint of the ECO LITE drums.
Reduced weight
Naturally ECO LITE drums are suitable for shipping hazardous solids and have been successfully submitted to rigorous drop tests. Thinner walls, smoother lines and no unnecessary details ensure that the new design requires as little plastic as possible, without compromising any of its strength.
Optimized pallet efficiency
Finally, the tapered design of the drum allows for more empty drums to be shipped on a pallet which has a further positive effect on the carbon footprint of the drum and the entire supply chain.
Four capacities
We are launching the new ECO LITE drum series with four capacity sizes:
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 |
 |
 |
|
| Article no. | 7630 | 7640 | 7650 | 7660 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity (liters/ US gallons) | 30 / 7.9 | 40 / 10.6 | 50 / 13.2 | 60 / 15.9 |
| Diameter (mm) | 400 | 400 | 400 | 400 |
| Diameter opening (mm) | 360 | 360 | 360 | 360 |
| Total height (mm) | 361 | 481 | 551 | 666 |
All benefits at a glance
Sustainable product
- Smart design choices (molded handgrips and gaskets) lower the use of material and energy.
- ECO LITE drums are made a blend of 30% bio-based plastic and 70% fossil-based plastic. Bio-based plastics from a renewable source are known to be more eco-friendly and contribute to a lower carbon footprint.
- Made entirely from mono-material, ECO LITE drums are designed for easy and efficient recycling.
- Thinner walls, smoother lines and no excessive features: the new design requires as little plastic as possible, without compromising its strength.
Sustainable supply chain
- More volume efficiency (empty drums) lower the carbon foot print of a supply chain.
- ECO LITE drums have been carefully designed and manufactured and are completely suitable for multiple use. The choice to use a CurTec drum more than once is a responsible and sustainable choice.
Lower supply chain costs
- Handling time can be reduced because opening and closing happens faster and is unambiguous thanks to the defined closing position of the quarter-turn screw.
- Storage space can be limited by stacking empty drums.
- No investment in tools is needed: opening and closing requires no significant force.
More operational reliability
- The quarter-turn closure with fixed closing position provides clarity and efficiency: making a quarter-turn takes less time and when closed, the UN marking is valid.
Satisfied users
- ECO LITE drums are user friendly because of the fast and easy closure but also thanks to the absence of sharp edges and corners.
- The total opening simplifies handling of liners.
- An optional vent prevents a drum with less contents from imploding during air transport and allows normal opening.
Avoid loss of content and related costs
- The robust construction protects against impacts.
- ECO LITE drums are UN certified (1H2) and suitable for shipping hazmat from packaging groups I, II and III.
- UN markings represent safety and constant quality care.
Prevent products from losing value
- The integrated seal in the screw lid offers a barrier against moisture ingress.
- Sealing loops on the drum and lid can be used for sealing strips to make tampering visible.
- ECO LITE drums are food grade.
Events
Product development is a continuous learning process and we are curious to hear your opinion about this brand new product. You can experience ECO LITE drums at the following upcoming events:
- CPHI (October 28-30, 2025 - Frankfurt)
- API China (November 12-14, 2025 - Chongqing)
- Pharmapack (January 21-22, 2026 - Paris)
- CPHI Americas (June 2-4, 2026 – Philadelphia)
- Pack Expo (October 18-21, 2026 - Chicago)
If you have any questions after reviewing this page, or if you wish to share your thoughts or feedback, please feel free to reach out.
*HDPE drums for secondary use with capacities between 30 and 60 liter
