About 40 years ago, the first refrigerator container was introduced. These insulated containers also referred to as reefers, were used to transport temperature-sensitive goods over great distances.
Refrigerated containers are now available for on-site use by food service establishments, agricultural businesses, and packaging houses. Refrigerated shipping containers are now being used by these businesses as freezers or coolers. These units can help meet needs for greater storage capacity, extra storage during busy seasons, and short-term storage during restorations.
When shipping merchandise that needs to be refrigerated during the voyage, a reefer container is a good option. When you think about it, a reefer container is like a refrigerator that you can transport over the path without the contents going bad. A refrigeration system is included in this kind of intermodal freight container. Reefer containers require an outside power source when they are positioned on land. They could have diesel generators to power them while traveling. A temperature range of -65°C to 40°C is achievable in reefer containers. Reefers feature a water-cooling system to aid in heat venting if there is not a sufficient heat ventilation system.
Because fresh commodities may be shared with anyone anywhere in the world at any time of year, reefers have had a huge impact on the trajectory of trade. To satisfy demand, reefers preserve perishable goods and transport them safely without compromising their quality or quantity.
Types of Refrigerated Shipping Containers
One-Trip Containers
Reefers classified as one-trippers have only made one ocean crossing. Because they are not used much, they are frequently marketed as being “as good as new.” All components of these gadgets will function reliably, and they will be delivered in excellent condition. These containers have the potential to attain extremely low temperatures.
Used Containers
Used containers are a better deal for businesses without the funds to buy brand-new or single-use containers. Though they have likely seen some wear and tear over the course of their lives, these devices should be fully operational. Checking the unit before buying is essential to ensure that the cargo doors open freely, that it is functioning properly, and that the storage atmosphere is cold enough to keep perishables.
Closed Reefer Containers
A closed refrigerated container is a single unit fitted with an automated electrically driven heating and cooling system.
Modified/Controlled Atmosphere (MA/CA) Containers
An air exchange system is employed to maintain an environment inside these containers that is appropriate for the items being stored. MA/CA reefers also include a significant amount of insulation.
Automatic Fresh Air Management (AFAM) Containers
AFAM reefers use modern technology to automatically regulate the unit’s internal air exchange to maintain a constant temperature. Users can adjust controls to modify or extend the shelf life of products stored therein.
Cryogenic Cooling Reefer Containers
The Total Loss Refrigeration technique preserves the freshness of the perishable items within these containers. Liquid nitrogen or dry ice are the cooling methods used for these containers. The cryogenically frozen gas is released through a vent when the container has cooled and begun to softly evaporate. At the appropriate temperature range, these containers have an average shelf life of 17 to 30 days.
Redundant Refrigeration Reefer Containers
For the transportation of dangerous, temperature-sensitive, or extremely precious cargo, system reliability is essential. In these cases, reefer containers with redundant refrigeration are used. These containers have a primary refrigeration unit as well as a secondary, or backup, refrigeration unit.
Refrigerated or Cool Tank Containers
Intended to transport products such as dairy, prescription medications, and all-purpose liquids. These tanks’ exterior coils are used to circulate synthetic oil or brine to provide cooling.
Reefer Container Features and Benefits:
1. Temperature
Refrigerated containers provide for temperature control between -30°C and +30°C. Unlike conventional shipping containers, reefers are equipped with the refrigeration technology needed to store perishable and frozen goods.
2. Size
Reefers are typically available in twenty-foot units, which is the standard size for shipping containers. They are available in different sizes. Forty- and forty-five-foot units are offered. High cube accommodations are an additional option.
3. Material
Most often, refrigerated shipping containers are made of Corten steel, also known as weathering steel. This material gives refrigerated units considerable strength and allows them to be stacked alongside regular containers because of their corrosion resistance.
4. Power
A reefer container requires an external power source to deliver cooling electricity. Most containers that are shipped by sea can receive power from the ship. On-land cold storage facilities are run by diesel generators, sometimes known as “gen sets.” Electrical services usually demand high voltage three power.
5. Refrigerant
Reefers rely on the vapor-compression cycle, a thermodynamic mechanism, just like refrigerators do. Certain parts, such as a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expansion valve, are crucial to the operation.
6. Insulated Walls
These refrigeration units’ walls are effectively encased in stainless steel panels that are positioned on either side of the insulation. Reefer containers require electrical outlets and plumbing fixtures to be put on the walls, but normal cargo containers have plumbing, and electrical lines hidden within the inner walls.
7. Aluminum Floors
Refrigerated containers have aluminum floors, as opposed to standard containers’ smooth metal or plywood floors. This substance is a part of a flooring system that has a T-profile. Because of this design, the container’s contents remain elevated, allowing cool air to circulate underneath. It permits the use of forklifts.
In summary, reefer containers:
Provide accurate temperature control.
Are low risk of corrosion and hygienic.
Are very dependable.
Costs of operation and maintenance are minimal.
Work with every type of refrigerant. Thus, it is simple to use.
Common Problems with Refrigerated Containers
Leakage is the most frequent issue with refrigerated transport containers. Poor sealing around the holes, which enables air to escape, is nearly usually the source of this.Normal wear and tear can also cause damage to pressure lines. Weakened refrigerants and electrical problems are also frequent, particularly after prolonged use.
Thankfully, these problems are typically solvable with a few easy tweaks. Make an appointment with a qualified technician to handle routine upkeep and repairs.