In the modern cold chain supply, refrigerated container It plays a vital role as a "link" in the supply chain. More than just a container, it's a complex technical system that helps maintain the freshness of products from the factory to the consumer. So... What is a refrigerated container? And why do businesses need to understand it?
What are refrigerated containers?
In the cold supply chain, refrigerated container It acts as an extremely versatile "mobile cold storage" unit. This is a specialized container equipped with an independent refrigeration system, specifically designed for transporting goods requiring strict temperature control. Thanks to its insulated shell construction... panel With specialized and high-capacity refrigeration, this equipment helps prevent goods from deteriorating during storage or long-distance transportation.
Based on practical experience from projects of Tan LongModern refrigerated containers also incorporate smart technologies to regulate ventilation and humidity. This is especially important for the agricultural export industry, where even small temperature deviations can cause widespread spoilage. Furthermore, to ensure stable operation, these systems are often controlled by electronic circuits. PLC electrical cabinet Modern technology allows business owners to easily monitor product quality 24/7.
Detailed structure of a refrigerated container
To achieve optimal preservation performance and stable operation in harsh environments, the construction of refrigerated containers (Reefer Containers) must comply with extremely stringent international technical standards.
Outer shell and insulation material
The outer shell of a container is usually made from Corten steel Superior strength or high-grade aluminum for optimal weight. However, the key factor determining heat retention is the insulation layer. Polyurethane (PU) The material, which is 70mm to 100mm thick, is compressed under high pressure between two layers of casing.
At Tan Long, we understand that insulation quality is the "key" to saving energy. This PU layer has a high density, similar to the manufacturing technology. Cold storage panel Specifically designed to prevent heat loss and ensure the lowest possible heat transfer coefficient for the goods inside.
Air conditioning system (Refrigeration Unit)
This is the most important component, determining the container's ability to maintain temperature. Popular air conditioning units from leading brands such as Carrier, Daikin, Thermo King, or Star Cool typically include a compressor, condenser, and evaporator.
The difference in our solution is... Tan Long This involves focusing on integrating different lines. PLC control cabinet Modern. This system allows for precise monitoring of every operating parameter, automatically alerts to malfunctions, and helps ensure that food and pharmaceutical storage processes are always in a state of absolute safety.
T-bar aluminum flooring
The biggest difference in the interior of a refrigerated container compared to a dry container is the system. T-shaped aluminum floorThe T-shaped aluminum grooves not only help the floor withstand heavy loads from forklifts but also play a crucial role in directing airflow.
Cold air currents from condenser The air will be blown along the floor grooves from the bottom up, through the cargo, to ensure uniform temperature at all locations in the container, completely eliminating localized temperature changes that can damage goods.
Specifications and classification of refrigerated containers
Depending on storage needs and cargo volume, businesses can choose from the following container sizes:
| Container type | External dimensions (LxWxH) | Set temperature | Popular Applications |
| 10 Feet | 3.05m x 2.44m x 2.59m | -20°C to +20°C | Mini cold storage, mobile events |
| 20 Feet (RF) | 6.1m x 2.44m x 2.59m | -25°C to +25°C | Transporting seafood and fresh meat. |
| 40 Feet (RF/HC) | 12.2m x 2.44m x 2.89m | -30°C to +30°C | Large-scale agricultural exports |
| 45 Feet (HR) | 13.7m x 2.44m x 2.89m | As requested | International intermodal freight transport |
(Note: 40 High Cube (HC) refrigerated containers are often preferred due to their greater height, which optimizes cargo space.)
Operating principle of refrigerated containers with forced convection cold air technology.
What makes the difference in the quality of preservation of refrigerated containers is... Indirect cooling principle This is achieved through forced convection airflow. Instead of directly cooling the surface, the system uses high-powered fans to continuously circulate air.
- Circulation process: The cold air is pushed downwards by the compressor, passing through the T-Bar aluminum floor system. Here, the cold air penetrates into every gap between the packages, absorbing the heat radiating from the products.
- Closed-loop cycle: The warm air is then collected at the top of the container's ceiling and returned. industrial refrigeration for refreezing and moisture removal.
With over 20 years of experience in installing systems. wind tunnel and cold storage, engineers at Tan Long Conclusion: This convection cycle is a key factor in completely eliminating temperature "blind spots." This prevents agricultural products from ripening prematurely due to heat accumulation and ensures that frozen foods do not thaw locally, preserving their nutritional value until they reach consumers.
What are the economic benefits and practical applications of understanding what a refrigerated container is?
Mastering the concept and function of What is a refrigerated container? This will help businesses optimize operational processes, minimize the risk of product damage, and enhance competitiveness. Below are some practical applications that bring high economic value:
- Supply chain for exported agricultural and seafood products: This is the most common application. Refrigerated containers help maintain the freshness of fruits (dragon fruit, durian, lychee) and frozen seafood products. In particular, to meet the stringent export standards of major markets, products are often processed through this system. IQF conveyor or Tan Long's blast freezer before packing into containers to ensure the core temperature of the product reaches the required level.
- Storage and transportation of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies: Vaccines, biological products, and specialized medications require extremely strict temperature ranges (typically 2-8°C). Refrigerated containers with precise humidity and temperature sensors are an absolutely safe solution, helping to preserve the pharmaceutical properties of the products throughout their journey.
- Flexible "Mobile Cold Storage" Solution: Instead of investing in time-consuming, fixed industrial cold storage systems, many businesses are choosing refrigerated containers as a temporary storage solution. The advantage of this option is its high mobility, making it suitable for short-term projects, construction sites, or increasing storage capacity during peak seasons.
In Tan LongWe provide comprehensive refrigeration solution consulting services, helping customers choose the right equipment to suit their specific goods, thereby optimizing investment costs and operating costs (ROI) sustainably.
Important considerations when operating and using refrigerated containers.
To ensure goods are stored in perfect condition and to extend the lifespan of the refrigeration system, the engineering team at Tan Long Customers are advised to strictly adhere to the following technical guidelines:
- Perform a thorough Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI): This is a comprehensive pre-departure inspection process to ensure the compressor, evaporator, and container shell seals are functioning perfectly. At Tan Long, we always support our customers with regular technical inspections, similar to the rigorous maintenance procedures for these systems. industrial cold storage large scale.
- Never load goods beyond the red line: The red line inside the container indicates the permissible limit for convective cold air circulation above the roof. If the cargo is stacked too high, the cold air will be blocked, leading to uneven temperatures – a major cause of damage to goods in the far corners of the container.
- Set precise operating parameters for each type of product: Each product line has different biochemical characteristics. For example, fresh fruits (such as bananas and dragon fruit) require ventilation to release ethylene gas and provide fresh air; conversely, seafood products after passing through the IQF conveyor belt need to be airtight to maintain a stable, very low temperature.
- Monitoring via intelligent control system: To optimize management, businesses should integrate PLC control panels or remote monitoring equipment. This helps to promptly detect power supply failures or abnormal temperature fluctuations, ensuring absolute safety for the supply chain.
Tan Long – A comprehensive industrial refrigeration system consulting, design, and construction company.
Affirming its position as the leading company in Ho Chi Minh City in the field of mechanical and electrical refrigeration, Tan Long We don't just supply equipment; we offer comprehensive, tailored solutions for each business. From strategic consulting and engineering design to the installation of internationally standardized refrigeration systems, we are committed to ensuring the highest level of consistency and stability.
We understand that, whether goods are stored in warehouses or transported in refrigerated containers, every unit of cargo is a priceless asset to our customers. Therefore, Tan Long's engineering team always focuses on optimizing equipment configurations – from refrigeration compressor unit up to the system industrial refrigeration – to ensure powerful cooling performance, energy efficiency, and maximize return on investment (ROI).
Are you looking for the optimal solution for storing your goods? Let Tan Long be your partner in building a smart, durable, and efficient refrigeration system.
- Hotline: (+84) 28 3849 4943
- E-mail: info@tanlongvn.com
- Address: 86 Dong Den Street, Ward 14, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
