Generally, people face the struggle to store fuel without any proper containers. They use ordinary bottles, buckets, or old cans. These can not be designed with detail and can cause fluid leakage. This can waste fuel, make a mess, and create safety risks.
The Jerry can save you from all these issues. A jerry can is designed to be strong, safe, and easy to carry. It has a smart design that helps prevent leaks and makes pouring simple. Whether for travel, camping, or emergencies, it gives you a wide space to carry liquid.
Read the article to know what is a jerry can, its uses and fluid capacities.
What is a Jerry can? A Quick Overview
A Jerry can is a reliable and strong container. The basic purpose of this container is to carry and store liquids, most often fuel or water. It was first designed many years ago for soldiers in war. Today, people use it all around the world. The Jerry can has a simple box shape with a handle on top. This handle is easy to lift and pour. It is built to stop leaks and keep the liquid safe.
Why is it called a Jerry Can?
The word “Jerry can” originated from World War II. At that time, German soldiers used a fuel can that was stronger than those used by other armies. British and American soldiers saw it and started calling it a “jerry can.” The word “Jerry” was a slang name for Germans. They noticed the can’s smart design and unique shape. Soon, Allied forces copied the design. The main reason behind it is that it was copied because it worked so well in war.
What Are Jerry Cans Made Of?
All the jerry cans are made of high-quality steel and plastic material. Stainless steel jerry cans are very strong and last a long time. They were the first type used in war and are still trusted today. Plastic jerry cans are lighter and easier to carry. They also do not rust. This makes them good for water storage. Both types are shaped the same. Each material has its own benefits. However, both are safe to hold fuel.
What is a Jerry Can Used for?
There are a lot of industries where jerry cans are used to tackle different storage needs. Here are the common places where Jerry can become essential equipment.
- Fuel Storage and Transport
Mostly, the jerry cans are used for storing and moving fuel. The drivers carry them on long trips where fuel stations are hard to find. They hold gasoline without leaks or spills. The tight cap and strong body make them much safer than bottles.
- Camping and Outdoor Adventures
The campers and hikers often depend on jerry cans. You can use it to carry water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Some people also store fuel for lanterns. The flat shape makes them easy to pack in a car or jeep. Jerry cans make outdoor trips more comfortable for everyone.
- Emergency Preparedness
During floods, jerry cans become lifesavers. People use them to store water for families when taps stop working. They also keep fuel ready for home generators. They are strong and easy to carry. In emergencies, having one full can of water or fuel can make a big difference.
- Industrial and Farm Work
The farmers and workers often need fuel in places far from stations. Jerry cans are perfect for tractors, pumps, and machines in the field. They are easy to refill and carry across rough ground. Many workers also work with oil and other liquids. This sturdy build helps them last in hard jobs.
What is the Standard Jerry Can Size?
There are different sizes of jerry cans available in the market. Generally, the 20-litre is the standard size of a jerry can. This size became common during World War II and is still used today around the world. The 20-litre can is large enough to carry a good amount of fuel or water.
However, it is still light enough for one person to lift and pour. The 10-litre cans are small versions of jerry cans. Some larger 25-litre cans are made too. However, the 20-litre size is the most trusted and recognised.
A jerry can is designed to carry fuel safely in optimal amounts. Generally, it has the capacity to hold 20 litres, which is about 5 gallons. This size is popular because it is not too heavy for one person to lift.
Some smaller jerry cans hold 10 litres, which is above 2.5 gallons. Larger versions can hold 25 litres, which is close to 6.5 gallons. The 20-litre size became standard because it gives a good balance. Fuel expands in heat, so cans should never be filled to the very top.
How to Use and Maintain a Jerry Can?
A jerry can is simple to use and maintain. Proper use keeps the fuel or water safe and helps the can last for years. Here are three important ways to use and maintain a jerry can.
- Filling and Storing Safely
Make sure to place the jerry can on the ground before filling. This reduces the risk of static sparks. It is best to avoid filling it to the very top because fuel expands when warm. Then, close the cap tightly to prevent leaks.
- Carrying and Pouring
You can use the strong handles to carry the can. The design enables one or two hands for balance. When pouring, tilt slowly to avoid spills. You can use a spout and funnel. This makes fuel pouring safer.
- Cleaning and Care
It’s best to rinse the jerry can with fresh water. For fuel cans, empty them fully before long storage. Make sure to check seals and caps to make sure they still fit tightly. A little care keeps the jerry can safe and ready for use.
FAQs
What makes a jerrycan different from other containers?
A jerry can is different from other containers due to its design. It is shaped to handle large amounts of fuel and liquid. Furthermore, it is made with a strong material that avoids the risk of fluid leakage. All these features make it stand out in the market.
Can you use a jerrycan for drinking water?
Of course, you can use the jerry can for drinking water. However, make sure to check that it is a food-grade container. This type of container is made of high-density polyethene and food-safe stainless steel. It prevents the food from dust contamination.
How long can you store fuel in a jerrycan?
Conclusion
To sum up, the question of what is a jerry can is all about is an especially designed container. The basic purpose of this container is to make sure the fuel and water are easy to carry and store. Mostly, the campers, travellers and farmers use the jerry can for different purposes.
Some store fresh water inside it to make travelling easy and free from water shortage stress. Otherhand, some use it to store fuel. So, they enjoy their journey without worrying about fuel shortage.
