A cold container, or reefer, is an intermodal shipping container with an integrated refrigeration unit used to transport or store temperature-sensitive, perishable goods like food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. They maintain precise, regulated temperatures using electric power from ships, trucks, or terminals, ensuring the cold chain remains intact during transport.
Key Features and Description:
- Active Cooling/Heating: Unlike simple insulated boxes, reefers use a generator to actively cool or heat, allowing for precise temperature control.
- Temperature Range: They are capable of maintaining temperatures generally ranging, enabling them to carry frozen or chilled goods.
- Airflow Management: Cold air is circulated through the floor (T-shaped decking) to ensure consistent temperatures throughout the entire container, avoiding hotspots.
- Structure & Insulation: Constructed with sturdy steel/aluminum frames, they are lined with high-insulation material to prevent temperature loss.
- Sizes: Standard sizes are 20-foot and 40-foot lengths.
- Components: Key components include a cooling system (often with a programmable logic controller), insulation, and a power source.
- Monitoring: Modern units feature real-time monitoring for temperature and humidity to ensure cargo safety.
Types of Cold Containers:
- Reefers: Active, electrically powered units used in intermodal transport.
- Cryogenic Containers: Use dry ice or liquid nitrogen for short journeys or air freight without needing a constant power supply.
- Insulated Containers: Offer passive cooling for short periods without active refrigeration.
Common Applications:
- Shipping perishable food products like fruit, vegetables, and meat.
- Transportation of pharmaceutical products and vaccines.
- Temporary or mobile cold storage at events, ports, or warehouse facilities
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