5 Things You Should Know Before Working with Reefer Containers at Your Production Site

Refrigerated containers, also known as reefer containers, have longly solved 2 major problems, first is on-site cold storage room solution and other is cold chain shipments of temperature-sensitive products across various industries. Let us explain these containers briefly so you can better understand this cutting edge cooling solution as your refrigerated container storage on rent.

What are the Types of Reefer Containers?

Different types of reefer containers catering to different requirements are:

​Controlled Atmosphere Reefer/Modified Atmosphere

These containers can be upgraded with a special feature air exchange system that replaces used oxygen to maintain a stagnant atmosphere. As a result, there is a balance between deterioration and the airflow rate.

​Closed Reefer Container

Closed reefers are one-piece conventional containers featuring electrical and automatic heating and cooling units. They also have an inherent front wall.

​Incubation Chamber Container

This reefer type automatically adjusts hot air flow inside the container by heating unit to maintain the desired temperature. Thus, temperature upto plus 70 degree Celcius is controlled, extending the merchandise’s service life.

​Dual cum Standby Reefer Container

Dual cum Standby Reefer Containers are customised special containers for the pharmaceutical industry, which helps protect valuable temperature sensitive pharma products even during breakdowns ensuring zero downtime.

Dimensions of Reefer Containers

Refrigerated or reefer containers are available in several sizes, of which the most common are 10ft, 20ft, and 40 foot refrigerated containers for sale. The basic specifications of these containers are:

​10ft Reefer Containers
External dimension: 10’ x 8’ x 8’6”
Internal dimension: 7’9” x 7’3” x 6’10”
Max gross weight: Varies with model

​20ft Reefer Containers
External dimension: 19’10 x 8 x 8’6
Internal dimension: 17’10 x 7’6 x 7’5
Max gross weight: 67200 pounds
Door opening: 7’6 x 7’4

​40ft Reefer Containers
External dimension: 40’ x 8’ x 9’6”
Internal dimension: 38’2” x 7’6 x 8’2
Max gross weight: 67200 pounds
Door opening: 7’6 x 8’3

What are the Sections and Components of Reefer Containers?

Operating and Safety Precautions for Reefer Containers

The safety of the reefer containers is crucial for their proper & smooth functioning. Therefore, one should consider the following measures when dealing with reefer containers.

1. Wear gloves and safety glasses when loading the products into the containers and charging the refrigerants if required.
   
   
2. Keep clothing, tools, and hands away when working with condenser fans and evaporators.
   
   
3. Use a carbon dioxide extinguisher to put off any electrical fire.
   
   
4. When loading goods/products into the container, it is important to switch off the start-stop button, all circuit breakers, and the power supply.
   
   
5. Be cautious around electrical safety devices while operating with refrigeration units.
   
   
6. Handle the compressed gas with care when charging the refrigerant under proper supervision.
   
   
7. The authorities dealing with reefer containers should be well trained and equipped with proper tools for servicing refrigeration units.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Considerations for Reefer Containers

Before integrating reefer containers into your production site as onsite cold storage room, it’s important to consider their energy efficiency and overall cost implications:

Cost Effectiveness: Assess both the upfront investment and ongoing operational expenses. Renting may be a viable option for temporary needs to minimize capital expenditure.

Maintenance and Repairs: Regular timely maintenance is essential to prevent breakdowns and extend the lifespan of the containers.

Green Technology: Some reefers feature eco-friendly technologies which can offer long-term savings through reduced energy consumption and eligibility for environmental incentives.

Return on Investment (ROI): Evaluate the ROI by considering all costs, including purchase or rental, maintenance, and energy use, against the savings from reduced product spoilage and waste.

These factors ensure choosing reefer containers as the most cost-effective and efficient storage solution for your specific temperature controlled needs.

​Conclusion

Reefer containers are probably the best storage solution for temperature-sensitive products for production sites. These containers allow users to maintain the desired temperature. However, when dealing with equipment like these, it is crucial to get proper servicing and timely maintenance, and hopefully, the blog helped. To understand more about these containers or to know the refrigerated shipping container price in India, get in touch with rentals or manufacturers.