Have you ever wondered how the produce or meat is being transported from one place to another without getting spoiled? You know that using the refrigerator can help keep the food fresh for long periods. However, does the same apply when traveling?
The answer is yes, through a refrigerated shipping container. This article will discuss just how these contraptions work and what else they can do for you as a food manufacturer in the long run. Also, this will discuss some of the steps taken to maintain such heavy pieces of equipment on the road.
Peeking Inside A Reefer
To further understand how this piece of technology works, you must first have an idea about the cooling systems in your home. Most air conditioning units as well as the standard refrigerators in the kitchen have internal cooling systems and ventilation mechanisms controlled by a nifty gadget called the thermostat. Below are some additional details about the thermostat and other parts of a reefer.
Reefer vs. Home Thermostat Design And Functions
Thermostats adjust the temperature and airflow inside the machine which in turn prevents the growth and development of bacteria when food and other beverages are stored inside.
1. External Power Design
Reefers or refrigerated shipping containers use the same technology. One difference is that home refrigerators and air condition units rely on external power sources like stationary electrical towers from the power companies.
2. Portable Power Design
Cooling reefers, meanwhile, have portable power sources placed inside the container itself. The power source is then attached to the ventilation system which regulates the temperature inside the container to keep it cold even while traveling.
The Benefits Of Using A Refrigerated Shipping Container
Now that you have the answer to the initial question regarding how it works, you should focus on the major advantages and drawbacks of using this particular contraption.
1. Comes In A Variety Of Sizes
This piece of machinery comes as high as 20 to 40 inches. The length and height of the container make them the perfect tool to use for food businesses while being suitable for travel through air and water. A container this large can also house twice as many food items in the future.
2. It Can Maintain Sub Zero Temperatures For Long Periods
While standard refrigerators and similar containers can maintain up to -25°C, refrigerated shipping containers can function and maintain temperatures even lower than that at -35°C to -70°C.
This means that you don’t have to worry about spoilage even If the temperature changes outside the vehicle. As long as the portable power source functions well, Your produce and other food items will remain fresh for hours on end.
3. Heavy Duty Power Supply
The portable power supply for a standard single-phase reefer has 240 volts and 15 amps of power with an operating temperature range of 10°C to -20°C.
Because of these specific voltages, a standard reefer can last for about 30 days without breaking down. Of course, this depends on the quality of the power supply as well as the material of the container itself. Reefers are usually made out of stainless steel which can withstand external pressures much more effectively.
It is something worth having if you ever decide to go into the food delivery business. By getting one of these cryogenic shipping containers, you won’t be able to deliver fresh food and ingredients regularly without any customer complaints.
Addressing The Issue Of Care And Maintenance
You will surely be able to save time and effort if you know how to take care of your refrigerated shipping container. This will not only extend the life of the machine but also give you many hours of usage without worrying about Internal damage.
Here are some tips on how you can maintain your refrigerated shipping containers regularly and without hassle.
1. Keep The Doors Closed
Remember to always keep the door closed when not in use. Keeping the door open even just for a few minutes will allow the cold air to be released and warm water to come into the container. This will then make the environment conducive for bacterial growth.
Aside from this, it will also make the thermostat and power supply work overtime to maintain and regulate the temperatures. This can cause significant damage to the gadgets if not maintained properly.
2. Park The Shipping Container In A Well-Ventilated Area
Keep the reefer in a well-ventilated area. This will promote airflow and prevent rusting because of extreme heat and winds. This goes hand-in-hand with regularly cleaning the shipping container.
3. Clean Your Shipping Container Regularly
If you fail to maintain the cleanliness of the shipping container, dust will most likely gather Inside causing irreparable damage to the gears of the cooling system and the power supply. If this happens, the machinery inside the shipping container will overheat causing an accident.
Work With An Effective Reefer And Achieve More!
Now that you understand the inner workings of a refrigerated shipping container system, you will have an easier time finding the right fit for you. What is important is that you know the specifics of what you want in a traveling cooling system. Everything else should follow after that.
