55 Gallon Garbage Cans

Why did I need one?

One of the most universal requirements for a workshop is easily accessible garbage cans. For the longest time, my shop garbage can was a 1 foot diameter cylinder with a flip open lid from target. It was metal for fire resistance, but everything else about it was terrible. The lid automatically closed after releasing the foot pedal. This meant that you had to physically step on the garbage can to throw something away. This eliminated any chance of making a sick shot from across the shop.

Nothing is more frustrating than holding onto something dirty and greasy while desperately looking for somewhere to toss it. You don’t want to throw it on your work surface and contaminate everything else. Where is that garbage can? This is how I solved my problem and made a pair of 55 gallon garbage cans with wheels to easily roll them around.

Material selection

The materials I used are 3 inch caster wheels, bar magnets, 55 gallon drums, and garbage bags. I was able to find several used motor oil drums for $10 on marketplace.

I began my search for a sufficient trash receptacle with some requirements. The container needed to be fire proof, large enough to throw trash into from a distance, needed to be mobile, and be very cheap to make. I immediately thought of “burn barrels” that are usually depicted in movies with homeless people using them as a source of warmth. So to Facebook marketplace we go. I searched for “burn barrel” and was flooded with results. I was able to get two barrels, 5 minutes from my house, for $10 each.Automotive shops will often sell their empty barrels after they use all of the motor oil inside. They just have no use for them anymore. Search for listings with some of the following phrases as sellers will market them differently.

• Burn Barrel
• Oil Drum
• 55 Gallon Drum

Assembly

It is important to CAREFULLY grind the lid off of the drum and remove it. It is recommended to completely fill the drum with water while grinding to prevent an explosion. To attach the casters, instead of drilling or welding, I chose to attach them with magnets. The bar magnets I ordered included adhesive strips that are optional for a slightly more permanent if desired. The last step is to install the garbage bag! I can now throw garbage across the shop with an increased chance of making it in.

Materials Used

Tools used

Ryobi Angle Grinder (Corded) – https://amzn.to/4e5u5rQ

Ryobi Angle Grinder (Battery) – https://amzn.to/4ebboD5

Metal Grinding Disc – https://amzn.to/4ebboD5