uds barrel
 

Is a barrel that had oil in it ok to use? I burned it out and it looks good.

I wouldn't use it. But I'm certain you will hear from many that have and are still alive to tell about it.

Many have said a proper burn will make it clean, exceptable... But not me brother. I think the chems get into even the micro of the metal. Not comfortable with that with it serving my family
.

I go with those who say that food grade drums are easy to find, so why bother with something questionable. Ask yourself how you'd feel about eating a breakfast cooked in a cast iron skillet that used to be used as a drip pan and you'll have your answer.

What kind of oil?

All ferous steel is quenched or treated with petrolem products from the foundry(rust inhibitor). If you had ever dealt with a 30 ton roll of sheet steel you'd know they are just about dripping with rust inhibitors. They all have had some sort of oil on them during the production process. Oil in a barrel is no worse or better than having a chemical liner burned out of them and maybe better after all its a natural product of decomposing plant material. Whats in those liners, plastics and chemicals. There are a few chemical products introduced into motor oils for lubrication that can either be washed out or burned off. Do some research into motor oil lubrication chemicals and you'll see whats exactly in the products... Then make a lucide and informed decision...Good luck.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_oil

My UDS started life as a container for motor oil. been using it for several years, and haven't had a single issue. I did 2 or 3 HOT burnouts before assembly. She's so coated with grease now, it's all good.

I'm of the opinion, if you're uncomfortable with the barrels previous use, don't use it.

Matt

Mine was used for motor oil as well. Did a good burn out and power washing and it was nice and clean. Like was mentioned...all metal has some sort of lubricant on it at some point. Once you season it you have layers of buildup between your food and the metal anyway. Been using it for about two months now without any issue or odd tastes or anything.

Given the choice, I would use a food grade barrel. But if not available, I would use a cleaned out / burned out oil barrel. People have been cooking with used oil barrels as long as there have been used oil barrels.