Homemade 55 Gallon Drum Mineral Feeder

The "Angus Journal" says a portable salt and mineral feeder can be built from a 55-gallon drum. The plans call for cutting the barrel in half length-wise and mounting one or both halves on skids so the unit can be moved around the pasture as needed. Optionally, the plans also include a cattle rub and dust bag for the application of insecticides. Construction of the mineral feeder will require welding equipment and other tools commonly found in a farm shop.

Things You'll Need

  • 55-gallon drum
  • Welder
  • Cutting torch
  • Reciprocating saw
  • 20-foot 1 x 1-inch angle iron
  • 10-foot 3 x 3-inch angle iron
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut the drum in half lengthwise with a cutting torch or a reciprocating saw with a metal cutting blade. Make sure there are no volatile liquids or vapors in the tank. Cutting a tank that still contains flammable liquid or vapors can lead to an explosion.

    • 2

      Construct a rectangular frame to fit around the opening of the cut drum from the 1 x 1-inch angle iron. Weld the corners of the frame. Drill holes through the angle iron and the edge of the drum to fasten the frame in place using 1/4-inch bolts and lock washers.

    • 3

      Construct a skid frame out of 3 x 3-inch angle iron. This is the portion that will set on the ground and should be about one foot longer and wider than the drum mineral feeder for stability. The heavy angle iron will make a unit sturdy enough to be dragged around the pasture by a tractor or all-terrain vehicle (ATV). Attach a chain to each end of the frame for connection to the tractor or ATV.

    • 4

      Add legs between the drum mineral feeder and the skid frame by welding 1 x 1-inch angle iron to each component. Optionally, a frame and plywood roof can be added to protect the minerals or salt from the weather. The frame for the roof would be welded to the angle iron framework around the lip of the drum.