The term “refrigerated container” or Reefer Container refers to any of six different types of containers used in shipping goods. They resemble normal containers in appearance but function like large refrigerators that can regulate the temperature of their cargo. This makes it perfect for shipping medicines, fruit, meat, fish and flowers, among other items.
Since the advent of refrigerated containers in the 1960s, they have revolutionized the way perishable goods are transported and have replaced traditional refrigerated vessels as the primary means of transporting products under controlled conditions. Reefer containers have gotten better since then as technology improvements have made reefers more efficient over time.
This is particularly important given the fact that maritime trade in perishable goods is projected to increase by 5% annually between now and 2020. For companies dealing in perishable goods, reefer containers are likely to be an important component in the supply chain.
How Reefer Containers Work
The refrigerated reefer container can maintain a loading temperature between -35°C and +35°C regardless of external environmental conditions. They do this by channelling air under the cargo through a T-shaped decking, which has been specially designed to ensure that air can flow properly through the entire shipment.
Besides being able to maintain the temperature of the pre-cooled cargo, refrigerated containers are also able to increase the temperature of the cargo when needed. The control unit on the housing allows the setting and adjustment of parameters such as temperature, humidity, ventilation and atmosphere. The settings used vary depending on the type of cargo being transported. For example, controlling CO2 and O2 levels in a unit containing fruit can significantly lengthen the ripening process, allowing it to stay fresh longer.
Many types of fruit do not require moisture control, but most do need to be stored at very specific temperatures. To do this, reefer containers need a constant supply of electricity. This is provided by the ship’s outlet or by a “generator” or portable generator.
Advantages of Cooling Containers
Over the past decade, reefer containers have successfully competed for trade with reefer vessels and rapidly increased their market share. This is not surprising when you consider the following benefits:
There is no need to place them in cold storage upon arrival at their destination as they are self-refrigerated units.
Containers come in a variety of sizes, making them suitable for land, sea and air transportation.
Reefer containers can be partitioned to create different departments at different temperatures. This allows the storage of frozen and chilled items in the same container.
The housing is durable and can keep operating in harsh environmental conditions.
Reefer containers can be transported by a variety of operators. This offers greater financial security and a faster return on investment than a specially refrigerated vessel.
It can stop the product from ripening too quickly and ensure a longer shelf life by circulating fresh air.
The dimensions of refrigerated containers vary, but there are generally three sizes. The first size is 20ft Reefer Containers, then 40ft Refrigerated Container , and 40 HC. This size can accommodate up to 25 tons of food ingredients.
That’s the explanation of Knowing Reefer Containers and Benefits for Business. This type of container is very useful as cold storage for your business needs.