Shipping containers are robust pieces of metal used to carry cargo in the shipping industries. Shipping containers are highly resilient and functional and are designed to carry heavy loads across the globe. Its resilience makes shipping containers withstand the heavy climate and strong tides. This makes shipping containers more durable and is the driving factor in repurposing it for various businesses. The most vital factor is that the shipping containers can be used as a single piece or can be a part of a larger structure. Apart from carrying cargo and being used as storage spaces, shipping containers are now repurposed to build mobile offices, cafes, homes and more.
Shipping container conversion is becoming a niche business in Dubai where companies have come to realise the potential of used containers. Super Tech Industries or STI is one of the premier industries that has been realizing the dreams of unique dwellings in Dubai and the whole Middle East. The main advantage of containers is its strength which is different from other traditional construction methods. This increased strength has made potential homeowners and entrepreneurs use shipping containers.
Also Read: COVID’S IMPACT AND THE ROLE OF SHIPPING CONTAINER MANUFACTURERS
The main characteristics of shipping containers are their toughness, stability and longevity. Shipping containers are indestructible and have the ability to withstand wear and tear. The stability of the shipping container gives it the structural strength that will endure and resist any change from outside forces. Shipping containers are made out of marine grade steel that makes it water and airtight. Marine-grade steel resists deep corrosion for over decades but there will be layers of light rust formation on the outer surface.
Lifespan Of A Shipping Containers
While choosing shipping containers for conversion projects, you need to ascertain a number of factors like the condition of the container, age of the container at the time of purchase and how the container was used. These factors will decide the lifespan of the containers when used for conversions. Climate and environmental factors in the place you live will also influence the container’s lifespan. Used shipping containers are graded based on aesthetics and structure.
An ‘A’ grade is given to new shipping containers that were used only for one trip. These shipping containers have a life span of 30 years. A ‘B’ grade is given to shipping containers that are used for less than five years. Damages like dents and scuffs are negligible as long as they remain waterproof and sturdy. A ‘C’ grade is given to shipping containers that are older than five years. They may have rusted surfaces and dents, but they still will have structural stability. Under any circumstances, a shipping container can last for a minimum of 25 years and can be expected to stay strong till 35 years based on the usage and maintenance.
Most of the container leasing companies will depreciate containers within a period of 10 to 12 years before they render it out of service. Well-cladded and treated containers used for house construction can last over 50 years. Containers that no longer fit to be used as cargo can still be reused for simple requirements. There are several ways to increase the lifespan of a shipping container. This includes:
- Minimizing container rain. It is the internal condensation of containers that can be minimized by reducing moisture contact.
- Store the container off ground to minimize container rain. Containers must be mounted on steel storage or wooden blocks to avoid direct contact on the ground.
- Use a dehumidifier if you have sensitive stuff inside the container.
- Before reusing the containers, consider painting a zinc coat which will reduce rust accumulation. Containers must be reprinted and buffed for a longer life span.
- Take immediate action to repair roof dents and replace worn door seals.
- The floor must be painted with water-resistant paint every few years.
- Containers must be regularly cleaned and inspected for moulds and rusts.
- The roof must be clear of debris which can trap excess moisture.
- A container must be well ventilated to keep dry and avoid moisture from damaging the sides.
- All moving parts like latches, hinges, gaskets and locks must be lubricated well.
- External cladding of shipping containers will resist rot and termites and will add decades to the lifespan.
- Regular preventative measures are required to see signs of rust, wear and peeling paint. You must deal with the tell-tale signs right away.
Container Conversion And Its Advantages
Repurposing containers for different uses is called container conversion. It is a sustainable way of giving new life to used shipping containers. Every industry will have to invest in infrastructure that lasts long. This will help propel a business towards growth. The longevity of shipping containers will help industries in many ways. It helps companies endure harsh weather or outlast tough business seasons. Frequent relocation is easily manageable with container units.
Modification of shipping containers is easy. The cargo box can be transferred into a variety of different structures. Containers can be transformed into low-cost housing, retail spaces, multilevel offices, schools, emergency response facilities and more. It can be designed to meet current needs and makes all necessary changes to meet that future needs. Containers are highly portable. You can place containers to new structures wherever there is space. Container structures can be easily relocated which is of great benefit for expanding businesses.
Companies can combine and stack shipping containers so they get a larger facility. They can start a new container structure or add to an existing structure. You can choose to add container structures based on the available funding and this helps maintain the financial growth of the company. Additional office space to accommodate new employees or additional storage space can easily be achieved by converting shipping containers. An emergency relief facility can be used as lab testing units when the influx of patients decreases. Container conversion is gaining popularity in Dubai as it can be repurposed more than once.
