Jerry Can Dimensions: A Complete Guide of Jerry Can Sizes, Volume, & More
The iconic Jerry can was first invented in Germany in 1937. It is a portable container used to store and transport fuel or water. A standard jerry can can hold up to 20 liters of liquid or 5.3 gallons. It is essential for various uses.
In this article, “Jerry Can Dimensions: Complete Guide of Jerry Can Sizes, Volume, & More,” we’ll explore jerry can sizes, features, and their practical applications. Whether you’re a military professional or a civilian, understanding these details can help you choose the right jerry can for your needs.
Origin of Jerry Can
The origin of the Jerry can dates back to 1937 in Germany, where it was originally called the “Wehrmachtkanister.” It was designed specifically for the German military. Its primary purpose was to transport fuel safely and efficiently for military use. After World War II, the name “Jerry can” came from Allied forces, who used “Jerries” as slang for Germans. The can’s design has remained largely unchanged since its introduction.
How Big Is A Jerry Can?
A jerry can is a sturdy container used primarily for storing liquids like petrol or water. The standard size of a jerry can is usually 20 liters, which is about 5.3 gallons. This size is easy to carry.
Standard Jerry Can Dimensions
| Jerry Can Type | Jerry Can Capacity in Liters | Jerry Can Capacity in Gallons | Typical Jerry Can Dimensions in cm | Jerry Can Common Use |
| Mini Jerry Can | 5 L | 1.3 gal | 23 × 18 × 12 | Camping, emergency fuel |
| Small Jerry Can | 10 L | 2.6 gal | 32 × 26 × 14 | Motorbikes, backup fuel |
| Standard Jerry Can | 20 L | 5.3 gal | 47 × 34 × 17 | Military, vehicles |
| Large Jerry Can | 25 L | 6.6 gal | 50 × 36 × 18 | Trucks, generators |
| Extra-Large Jerry Can | 30 L | 7.9 gal | 55 × 38 × 20 | Industrial storage |
| Water Jerry Can | 20 L | 5.3 gal | 45 × 33 × 16 | Drinking water storage |
Jerry Can Weight
The weight of a jerry can varies based on its size and material. An empty 20-liter steel jerry can weighs approximately 4 to 5 kilograms, and a plastic version weighs about 1.5 to 2 kilograms. When filled, a 20-liter jerry can of water can weigh between 20 and 21 kilograms. If filled with fuel, it weighs around 15 to 17 kilograms.
Standard Jerry Can Size
When choosing a jerry can, size matters. The most common sizes are 5 liters, 10 liters, and 20 liters. A 5-liter jerry can is great for small trips. The 10-liter can works well for camping or road trips. Here are some common sizes of jerry cans.
Small Jerry Can
A small Jerry can is a versatile container. These cans are lightweight and easy to carry. They often come with a secure cap to prevent spills and leaks. A standard small Jerry can holds about 1 to 5 gallons. They have a wide mouth for easy filling and pouring.
Jerry Can 5 Liter
The 5-liter jerry can is a practical companion for outdoor adventures and emergencies. Its compact size, around 23 × 18 × 12 cm, makes it easy to fit in a vehicle or a backpack. It weighs about 0.5 to 1 kg when empty. It becomes 5 to 6 kg when filled with water.
Jerry Can 10 Liter
The 10-liter jerry can is a handy accessory for any outdoor adventure. It has a capacity of 10 liters, or about 2.6 gallons. It offers the perfect size for easy transport. It measures around 32 × 26 × 14 cm. It weighs between 1 and 1.5 kg when empty. It’s ideal for camping trips.
Jerry Can 20 Litre
The 20litre jerry can is a popular choice for storing and transporting liquids. It measures about 47 × 34 × 17 cm. It is a compact option that fits well in vehicles. It is made from sturdy steel or lightweight HDPE plastic. It is built to last. An empty steel can weighs around 4 to 5 kg, while a plastic can is 1.5 to 2 kg.
WWII Jerry Cans
The WW2 Jerry Can was invented in Germany in 1937. It had a standard capacity of 20 liters, or about 5.3 gallons. Made from strong pressed steel, its design was flat-sided and rectangular. The can featured a clever three-handle design.
Allied forces nicknamed it the “Jerry Can” after referring to Germans as “Jerries.” These cans were essential for transporting fuel in military vehicles like tanks, trucks, and aircraft. After seeing its effectiveness, the Allies adopted this innovative design for their own use.
WWII German Jerry Can
The WWII German Jerry Can, officially known as the “Wehrmacht Oil Can,” was a vital tool for soldiers during the war. These are made from robust steel. Its design was durable and pressure-resistant. It is ideal for various terrains. The can’s shape was flat. This helped soldiers quickly refuel vehicles in the heat of battle. Its dark color also protected the fuel from sunlight and reduced the risk of evaporation.
WW2 US Jerry Can
The US Jerry Can became essential during World War II. They developed in the 1930s. The US Jerry Can was adopted during World War II after the Allies observed the efficiency of the German 20L Wehrmachtkanister. Designed with three handles, the Jerry Can allowed one or two soldiers to carry it comfortably.
Jerrycan Metal
Jerrycan metal is a strong and durable material used to make containers for liquids. They became popular for their ability to hold various fuels, water, and other liquids. Made from steel or aluminum, these containers are resistant to corrosion and can stand up to rough handling. Jerrycan metal is often recycled and is an eco-friendly choice.
Jerry Gas Can
A Jerry gas can is a popular choice for storing and transporting gasoline. These cans usually come in sizes of 5 liters, 10 liters, or 20 liters. Made from durable steel or strong HDPE plastic, they are designed to be tough. Their flat-sided, rectangular shape makes them easy to stack and store.
Metal Jerry Can
A metal Jerry can is a strong, durable container. They usually hold about 1.3 to 5.3 gallons and weigh around 2 to 3 kilograms when empty. Made from tough steel, these cans are built to resist dents and leaks. These are useful for outdoor adventures or emergencies.
Petrol Jerry Cans
Petrol jerry cans are sturdy containers used to store and transport fuel, primarily gasoline. Typically made of steel or high-density plastic, these cans come in various sizes, with the most common being 5 liters (1.3 gallons) and 20 liters (5.3 gallons). They weigh from 1.5 kilograms for smaller plastic versions to 5 kilograms for larger steel ones. They are used for multiple purposes, including filling up lawnmowers, chainsaws, or portable generators.
Plastic Jerry Cans
Plastic jerry cans are versatile containers commonly used for storing and transporting liquids. They typically range in size from 1 liter to 25 liters, but larger options are available. These cans are lightweight and easy to handle. They are durable and resistant to chemicals.
Wavian Jerry Can
The Wavian Jerry Can is a highly durable container. Typically, these are made from robust steel. It can hold up to 20 liters (around 5.3 gallons) and weighs approximately 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) when empty. It is designed for easy transport. It’s perfect for camping, boating, and emergencies.
Standard Jerry Can Measurements
Jerry cans are designed with a flat bottom and a tapered top. Its dimensions are practical for storage and transport. The height of jerry can is around 47 cm, about 18.5 inches, while it measures 34 cm wide (13.4 inches) and 17 cm deep (6.7 inches).
Jerry cans are usually made from steel or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic. An empty steel can weighs about 4 to 5 kg, while a plastic can is lighter, around 1.5 to 2 kg. When filled with water, a Jerry can weighs roughly 20 to 21 kg. If filled with fuel, the weight drops to about 15 to 17 kg.
Jerry Can Volume
The most common jerry can has a volume of 20 liters, which is about 5.3 gallons. This size is popular because it balances capacity and portability. There are also smaller jerry cans that hold 5 liters or 10 liters. For larger needs, there are options like 25 liters and 30 liters. When full, the weight of a jerry can can change, depending on what it’s holding: water or fuel.
Conclusion
A jerry can is a type of container designed to hold liquids, mostly fuel. They are used in many settings, from road trips to emergencies, to transport fuel or water. In this guide, we explored the dimensions of jerry cans, which are essential tools for safely storing and transporting liquids. Common sizes of jerry cans include 1 liter, 5 liters, and 20 liters. Understanding these sizes helps choose the right can for activities, whether it’s for camping, gardening, or emergency preparedness.
FAQs
What is a Jerry Can?
A Jerry can is a container. It is used to hold liquids, mainly fuel like gasoline or diesel. It is made from metal or plastic and has a sturdy design that makes it easy to carry. The shape is often rectangular with a handle on the top.
Who Invented the Jerry Can?
The Jerry Can was invented in Germany in 1937 by Vinzenz Grünvogel. He was an engineer working for the German Wehrmacht. The original name for this container was “Wehrmachtkanister,” which means “military can” in German.
Why is a Jerry Can Called a Jerry Can?
The term “Jerry Can” comes from World War II. During this time, Allied soldiers used the word “Jerry” as slang for Germans. The Germans had invented a sturdy fuel container called the Wehrmachtkanister in 1937. It was designed to be strong, easy to carry, and to store liquids safely.
How Many Litres in a Jerry Can?
The most common size of a jerry can holds 20 liters. This size is widely used for transporting gasoline, diesel, and water. Some jerry cans can hold other amounts, like 5 liters or 10 liters.
