Reefer Container: What Is It? How Does It Work?

By Author: Divine cooling solutions
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Have you ever heard about reefer containers commonly used for onsite cold storage of temperature-sensitive or perishable goods? Well, if you wish to broaden the horizon of your knowledge concerning reefer containers, continue reading this blog.

What is a Reefer Container?

Also known as refrigerated containers, reefer containers act as portable cold storage containers, generally capable of maintaining temperatures between -30 and +30 degrees Celsius. The primary role of a reefer container is to keep the temperature-sensitive or perishable items secure during storage period/transportation.

These containers feature a refrigeration unit at one end, which fills the entire storage with cold air upon establishing a connection with the external power source. The continuous airflow inside the container helps in maintaining the required temperature. Refrigerated containers are generally used for the cold storage of the following:

▸ Seafood
▸ Fruits and vegetables
▸ Meat (chilled and frozen)
...
... ▸ Beverages and juices
▸ Wines
▸ Processed food
▸ Dairy and milk products
▸ Pharmaceutical
▸ Chemical

How Do Reefer Containers Work?

We already discussed the refrigeration unit briefly; let us dig deeper into the working or functioning of reefer containers.

● Maintaining Cool Temperature

The Reefer container’s floor features grooves or t-shaped decking, which allows the continuous circulation of cool air from the refrigeration unit throughout the container. This maintains the temperature inside the storage.

One thing to note is that if you use reefer containers, it is essential to decide and pre-cool the desired temperature you want the reefer to maintain. This is because you will not be able to change the temperature of the goods, and it will only maintain the already set temperature. So, be cautious!

● The Generator Set Provides Backup Electricity

Apart from external three Phase Power supply, the generator set or the genset can also provide power for the refrigeration unit to function. Generally, the reefer is connected to any external power source on the plant site. However, for extremely sensitive cargo that can be easily damaged if not stored at their required temperature, the generator set acts as a backup source of electricity.

● Ventilation Maintains Freshness

Vegetables and fruits release water, carbon dioxide, and heat. If gasses released are not removed, it can lead to the aging, ripening, and change in flavor of the products stored inside. Therefore, it is important to keep reefer containers ventilated every time.

● Maintains Relative Humidity

Humidity requirements for every cargo are different, and reefer containers have a dehumidification setup that helps them maintain the required humidity levels. Inbuilt data loggers used modems to monitor return air temperature, supply air temperature, humidity level, and ambient temperature.

● Draining Excess Water

Reefer containers feature a drainage system that successfully drains excess water in case of accumulation to avoid flooding and damage to the items.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you have understood the basic functioning of reefer containers with this blog. If you plan to use reefer containers as onsite portable cold storage containers for temperature-controlled products, you can buy or rent them. However, renting is more beneficial, and you should get in touch with container rental services in Ahmedabad (PAN India) to find reefer containers that suit your requirements.