With the advent of modernization, almost every logistics industry has started investing in a reefer container. Reefers have undoubtedly gained demand by aiding international trade as a popular storage solution. This refrigerated shipping container, being widely used in freight transports, effectively transports perishable and temperature-sensitive materials. Reefers are capable of controlling temperatures between – 30°C to +30°C. Their refrigeration unit relies on external power, including diesel operated generators on-road and electrical power points whilst on ship journeys.
Reefers are capable of holding cargo at the desired temperature with self-cooling systems. The primary products that can be shipped through reefers are fruits, fish, yoghurt, meat, vegetables, ice cream and dairy items. Wine and pharmaceutical products can also be moved from one place to another across oceans to manage the temperature accordingly. Therefore, container manufacturers usually make them in various dimensions and sizes.
Working Principle Of A Reefer Container
Reefer Container is an ideal transport system for long journeys installed with the latest technologies to save the cargo. It prevents the products inside from spoiling due to heat, moisture, temperature variation and airflow. Reefers work with multiple sections, unlike standard cargo containers. They have interior fans, air vent, control unit, evaporator and condenser.
A reefer container circulates cold air from the bottom as the distributing units are present on the floor. The cold air moves through a T deck which circulates uniform and consistent air for the entire journey. Furthermore, a reefer can maintain a hot temperature using hot gas or an electrical heating element. These containers can alter the temperatures in the event of unfavourable conditions. Few of them are fitted with remote monitoring frames to prevent mishaps like explosions during transit.
There are various types of shipping containers in the commercial market, and refrigerated containers are the ones that can effectively control the temperature. The quality of the cargo is maintained until it reaches its destination with an altered atmospheric condition. Managing both carbon dioxide and oxygen in the container will increase the shelf life of the food product. This enables the containers to travel to various places around the globe.
Types Of Reefer Containers
Closed Reefers
A closed reefer has a front wall with an automatic cooling and heating unit. It is the most common type of refrigerated container widely used.
Controlled Atmosphere Reefers
An air exchange system in a controlled atmosphere reefer replaces the consumed oxygen effectively. It calculates the product’s deterioration rate and keeps the atmosphere at equilibrium. This is also known as a modified reefer as it is insulated to maintain a stable atmospheric condition.
Automatic Air Management Containers
This reefer is an advanced model which uses superior technology to manage the airflow automatically. It maintains a fresh air supply by controlling the composition of carbon dioxide and oxygen along with other atmospheric gases. The technology helps extend the shelf life of various products.
Cryogenic Cooling Reefers
In a cryogenic cooling reefer container, frozen gas like liquid nitrogen or dry ice cools the entire atmosphere inside. This frozen gas evaporates, cools the container and gets vented out. An electric fan regulates the temperature, which gets controlled thermostatically. The time taken by these reefers to maintain their temperatures is 17 to 30 days. A cryogenic cooling reefer container works on the total loss refrigeration principle to keep the perishable goods fresh.
Redundant Refrigeration Reefer Containers
A redundant refrigeration reefer transports hazardous and precious cargo, which is essential for some reason. These containers have primary and secondary backup refrigeration units as temperature-sensitive products of prime importance are stored. If the primary unit fails, the secondary unit switches on and takes control. These containers also contain more than one generator to ensure the safety of goods.
Cool Tank Containers
This refrigerated container transports milk, liquids and pharmaceuticals. They cool the entire unit with synthetic oil or brine circulation through external coils.
Advantages Of Using Reefer Shipping Containers
The benefits associated with a reefer are numerous. You have to check on the ones that suit your needs. Listed below are a few of the most common advantages of any refrigerated shipping container.
- Reefers help in transporting goods and cargo effortlessly from one country to another. Owing to their easy handling techniques and well-equipped infrastructure, they are undoubtedly trustworthy.
- Refrigerated shipping containers have a high storage capacity. They have removable racks and partitions that will be flexible to store bigger and smaller items accordingly.
- A reefer is easy to install at any site. All that you need is a flat surface and nothing more.
- These containers use electrical energy and fuels to work.
- Reefers can be moved and transported just like regular containers without having to offload the goods.
- The handling expense is reasonable with adequate infrastructure and minimum transportation charges. Reefers offer sufficient protection to all their goods which reduces elaborate packaging. This, in turn, will decrease the packaging expense.
- The damages and pilferages are minimum with these containers. They are strong and built in a secure manner which safeguards the goods from physical damage and theft.
Summing It Up
Reefer containers play a crucial role in both maritime logistics and shipping. We help to transport perishable foods and other significant items to a faraway destination. STIUAE reefers can be used in different fields apart from ocean transit. Our reefers in UAE come with built-in technology that is beneficial for a wide range of static units like warehouses, restaurants and hospitals. Our reefer containers are highly affordable and durable. To make the most out of it, join hands with us, and we are there to guide you with the right option.
