Shipping container colors: meaning, types and properties
The colors of shipping containers are not just an aesthetic choice, but play a crucial role in their functionality and longevity. In this article, we will look at various aspects of shipping container colors, their significance, and the types of coatings used. Container colors are a key factor for their long lifespan, protection, and safety. High-quality anti-corrosion coatings provide excellent protection against corrosion and mechanical damage. Choosing the right shade and type of coating can significantly affect the efficiency and maintenance costs of containers. When selecting the color and coating, it is important to consider the specific needs and conditions to which the containers will be exposed.
Significance of Shipping Container Colors
- Corrosion Protection: The primary purpose of paint is to protect the container from corrosion. Shipping containers are exposed to harsh weather conditions, saltwater, and mechanical wear. A high-quality anti-corrosion coating, such as Rokoprim Container RK 103 V1, ensures a long lifespan for the container and minimizes maintenance costs.
- Fast Drying and Repaintability: Modern coatings are designed to dry quickly and be easily repainted. This allows for effective repairs and maintenance of containers without long downtimes.
- Identification and Safety: Colors allow for easy identification of containers. Different colors can indicate various types of cargo or ownership of the container. For example, containers carrying hazardous materials can be marked with specific colors for easy identification and increased workplace safety.
Types of Coatings for Shipping Containers
Basic Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Basic coatings, such as Rokoprim Container RK 103 V1, provide initial protection against corrosion. This type of coating is fast-drying and repaintable with polyurethane enamels, ensuring excellent protection and long-lasting durability. Basic coatings are typically applied to new containers or after thoroughly cleaning older containers.
Polyurethane Coatings
Polyurethane coatings are often used as a top layer over the basic anti-corrosion coating. These coatings provide high resistance to mechanical damage, UV radiation, and chemicals. Due to their durability and aesthetic appearance, polyurethane coatings are an ideal choice for containers frequently exposed to harsh conditions.
Epoxy Coatings
Epoxy coatings are another popular choice for shipping containers. These coatings offer excellent protection against corrosion and have high adhesion to various surfaces. Epoxy coatings are often used in combination with polyurethane coatings to achieve maximum protection and durability.
How to Paint a Shipping Container?
All steel surfaces, including welds, are completely blasted before applying the epoxy primer. After the primer has dried, the exterior of the container is repainted with a high-strength topcoat (e.g., RAL 7015 covering paint) and the interior is repainted with a high-strength epoxy resin-based coating cured with polyamide. The thickness of the dry film of the topcoat is 40 microns for both the exterior and interior. This ensures the long lifespan and color stability of the shipping container.
Choosing the Right Shade
Choosing the right shade of paint is important not only for aesthetic reasons but also for identification and safety. Many manufacturers offer a wide range of shades that meet international standards such as RAL. For example, RAL 7035 is a popular choice for many containers due to its neutrality and ability to hide dirt and wear.
SHIPPING CONTAINER COLORS BY RAL SHADES
Shipping containers are known for their robustness and durability. In addition to their practical properties, their appearance is also important, especially for identification and aesthetics. Below, we will focus on the technical descriptions of several RAL colors commonly used for shipping containers.
The RAL color system is a universally recognized standard for color selection, widely used in industry and design. This system allows for easy identification and reproduction of colors, which is crucial for consistency and quality. In the field of shipping containers, choosing the right color is not only a matter of aesthetics but also functionality and resistance to weather conditions.
RAL colors are a standardized color palette used in industry that ensures precise and consistent color identification. When selecting a color for shipping containers, it is crucial to choose a shade that combines functionality, aesthetics, and durability. The RAL Classic system offers a wide palette of colors that are not only visually attractive but also of high quality and resistant to weather conditions.
Choosing the right color for shipping containers is essential for their overall functionality and aesthetics. Shades from the RAL Classic palette offer a wide range of options suitable for various applications and environments. Whether you need a container that stands out or one that blends in with its surroundings, RAL colors provide an ideal solution.
Each of these RAL shades offers specific benefits and is suitable for different applications of shipping containers. Choosing the right color can significantly impact the functionality and aesthetics of the container, so it is important to select a color that best suits your needs.
RAL 1001 – Beige
RAL 1001 is an elegant beige color that is often used for containers to blend in with their surroundings or create a neutral look. Thanks to its versatility and understated appearance, RAL 1001 is a popular choice for many industrial applications.
RAL 1014 – Ivory
RAL 1014, also known as ivory, is a soft and elegant color that gives the containers a luxurious look. This color is ideal for containers to be placed in environments where a higher aesthetic standard is expected.
RAL 1015 – Light Ivory
Light ivory RAL 1015 is an even softer and lighter variant of ivory. This color is ideal for containers that need to look fresh and clean. Its light tonality also makes it suitable for use in warmer climates, where light colors help reflect sunlight.
RAL 1018 – Zinc yellow
RAL 1018 is a lively and energetic zinc yellow color. It is ideal for containers that need to be highly visible and easily identifiable. This color is often used in industrial and construction environments where high visibility is important.
RAL 1023 – Traffic yellow
Traffic Yellow RAL 1023 is another bright and bold color that is often used for containers in transport and logistics. This color ensures that the containers are easily recognizable even from long distances, which facilitates their handling in ports and warehouses.
RAL 2008 – Orange signal
RAL 2008 is an orange signal color that is very distinctive and is often used for containers that need to be easily identifiable. This color is ideal for containers that are located in high risk environments where quick visual identification is important.
RAL 2011 – Traffic orange
Traffic orange RAL 2011 is another distinctive color that is often used in transport and logistics. This color combines high visibility with an aesthetic appearance, making it an ideal choice for containers designed to transport goods over long distances.
RAL 3000 – Flame Red
RAL 3000, also known as Flame Red, is a distinctive and vibrant red color. This color is often used for containers that require high visibility, for example for transporting hazardous materials. Its intense tone ensures that the containers are easily recognizable even from a long distance.
RAL 3001 – Signal red
RAL 3001, or Signal Red, is another distinctive red shade. This color is ideal for containers that need to be quickly identifiable, for example in ports or construction sites. Signal Red is also popular for its ability to attract attention and increase safety.
RAL 3002 – Carmine red
RAL 3002, known as Carmine Red, has a rich and deep tone. This color is often used for containers that transport special cargo, where not only functionality but also aesthetics are important. Crimson Red gives containers an elegant look that can be attractive to customers.
RAL 3009 – Oxide red
RAL 3009, or Oxide Red, is a darker and earthier shade of red. This color is ideal for containers that are often exposed to adverse weather conditions. Oxide Red is known for its durability and ability to hide dirt and wear, making containers with this color less susceptible to visual damage.
RAL 3013 – Tomato red
RAL 3013, or Tomato Red, brings a fresh and lively red shade. This color is perfect for containers that aim to stand out with their uniqueness and modern look. Tomato Red is a great choice for containers in urban areas or for projects that require a visually attractive solution.
RAL 3020 – Traffic red
RAL 3020, known as Traffic Red, is another bold red color often used for shipping containers. This shade is particularly popular for its ability to increase visibility and safety. Transport Red is ideal for containers moving in high traffic areas where quick identification is important.
RAL 4008 – Signal violet
RAL 4008, known as Signal Violet, is a bold and expressive color. This purple color is often used to highlight and create visual contrast. In the context of shipping containers, it can be used for special containers or as an identification element. Signal Violet is ideal for situations where you need to draw attention or mark an important area.
RAL 5003 – Sapphire blue
RAL 5003, or Sapphire Blue, is a deep blue color that exudes elegance and stability. This color is often chosen for its calming and professional qualities. In the field of shipping containers, Sapphire Blue offers excellent resistance to dirt and dust, which is important for containers exposed to demanding conditions.
RAL 5010 – Gentian blue
Gentian Blue, designated as RAL 5010, is a lively and energetic blue color. This color is popular for its ability to stand out without distracting from the main content. Gentian Blue is ideal for containers that need to be easily identifiable, for example in shipping hubs or ports.
RAL 5011 – Steel Blue
RAL 5011, known as Steel Blue, is a dark and sophisticated blue color with a hint of grey. This color is a symbol of strength and resistance. For shipping containers, Steel Blue is a great choice due to its ability to mask dirt and wear, keeping the containers visually attractive even after a long period of use.
RAL 5013 – Cobalt Blue
Cobalt Blue, designated as RAL 5013, is an intense and rich blue color that conveys a feeling of trust and security. This color is often used in industrial applications for its ability to stand out without being too obvious. In the context of shipping containers, Cobalt Blue offers the perfect balance between visibility and a professional appearance.
RAL 5017 – Traffic blue
Traffic Blue, designated as RAL 5017, is a bright and vibrant blue color that symbolizes energy and movement. This color is ideal for containers that need to be quickly and easily identified. Traffic Blue is often used in the transport and logistics industries for its ability to attract attention and improve visibility.
RAL 6005 – Moss Green
The color RAL 6005, known as moss green, is a dark shade of green that is often used for containers in environments that need to blend in with nature. This color is popular for containers used in forestry, horticulture and similar areas. Moss green provides good resistance to dirt and stains, making it ideal for outdoor use.
RAL 6007 – Bottle green
RAL 6007, bottle green, is a darker and more muted shade of green that is often used for containers in urban areas. It is an ideal color for containers located in parks, public spaces or industrial zones. Bottle green is known for its ability to mask dirt and dust, which contributes to the aesthetic appearance of the containers even during intensive use.
RAL 6018 – Yellow green
The color RAL 6018, yellow green, is a bright and vivid shade that is often used for containers that must be easily visible. This shade is popular in security and transport where container visibility is important. Yellow green is ideal for containers used on construction sites, ports or airports.
RAL 6029 – Mint green
RAL 6029, mint green, is a fresh and distinctive shade of green used for containers that need to stand out. This shade is often chosen for containers in commercial and public spaces where aesthetic appearance is important. Mint green offers excellent resistance to UV radiation and weathering, which ensures long-term color stability.
RAL 6038 – Fluorescent green
Fluorescent green, designated as RAL 6038, is a very bright and vibrant color that is ideal for containers that need to be visible even in low light conditions. This color is often used for containers in emergency situations, construction sites or high traffic areas. Fluorescent green ensures maximum visibility and safety.
RAL 7000 – Squirrel Grey
RAL 7000, known as squirrel grey, is a neutral and muted color often used for containers in industrial and storage areas. This shade of gray is very practical as it easily masks dirt and wear. Gray squirrel is an ideal choice for containers that have to fit into different environments without significant aesthetic intervention.
RAL 7004 – Signal grey
RAL 7004, known as signal grey, is a light and neutral shade. This shade is excellent for containers that need to be visible and easily identifiable. Signal gray is often chosen for its ability to reflect light, which can reduce overheating of containers in the sun.
RAL 7005 – Mouse gray
Mouse grey, or RAL 7005, is darker than signal grey. This shade is ideal for containers that need to blend in with their surroundings or be less noticeable. Mouse gray is also very practical in terms of maintenance, as dirt and dust are not so visible on it.
RAL 7012 – Basalt grey
Basalt Grey, RAL 7012, is a darker and deeper shade of gray that provides an elegant and professional look. This shade is often used in industrial and commercial applications where a higher level of aesthetics and durability is required.
RAL 7015 – Slate grey
Slate grey, RAL 7015, has a subtle blue undertone that gives the containers a modern and sophisticated look. This shade is very popular for its universal use and ability to harmonize with different environments.
RAL 7016 – Anthracite grey
Anthracite grey, RAL 7016, is a dark, almost black shade of grey. This shade is ideal for containers that want to look modern and stylish. Anthracite gray is also very resistant to dirt and wear.
RAL 7021 – Black grey
Black grey, or RAL 7021, is a very dark shade that can give containers a robust and industrial look. This shade is often used in applications where maximum resistance and minimum visibility of dirt is required.
RAL 7024 – Graphite grey
Graphite grey, RAL 7024, is a dark shade with a subtle hint of blue. This shade is ideal for containers that want to look modern and elegant. Graphite gray is also very practical in terms of maintenance and durability.
RAL 7031 – Blue grey
Blue grey, or RAL 7031, is a medium-dark shade with a strong blue undertone. This shade is ideal for containers that need to look fresh and modern. Blue gray is also very versatile and can be easily combined with other colors.
RAL 7032 – Pebble grey
Pebble grey, RAL 7032, is a light and warm shade of grey. This shade is ideal for containers that are intended to appear welcoming and fresh. Pebble gray is also very resistant to UV radiation and weathering.
RAL 7035 – Light grey
Light grey, RAL 7035, is a light and neutral shade that is very popular for its versatility and ability to reflect light. This shade is ideal for containers that need to be visible and easily identifiable.
RAL 7036 – Platinum Grey
Platinum gray RAL 7036 is a soft, elegant color that gives containers a modern look. This color is often used for its neutral tone, which fits well in different environments. Platinum gray is an ideal choice for containers that should be discreet and stylish at the same time.
RAL 7037 – Dusty grey
Dusty Gray RAL 7037 is a darker shade of gray that provides a robust and durable look. This color is often used for containers that are exposed to harsh conditions, as a darker shade better masks dirt and wear. Dusty gray is a practical choice for containers used in industrial and construction areas.
RAL 7038 – Agate Grey
Agate Gray RAL 7038 is a light, subtle shade of gray that is very popular for its versatile use. This color is often chosen for containers that are intended for long-term storage or as mobile offices. Agate gray provides a bright and clean look that is visually pleasing.
RAL 7040 – Window grey
Window gray RAL 7040 is a light shade of gray that evokes purity and freshness. This color is ideal for containers to be placed in urban or residential areas where aesthetic appearance is important. Window gray is also popular for containers that serve as temporary living or office spaces.
RAL 7042 – Traffic grey
Traffic gray RAL 7042 is a medium shade of gray that combines robustness and aesthetics. This color is often chosen for containers that are frequently moved or exposed to different climatic conditions. Traffic gray is a practical and versatile choice for a wide range of applications.
RAL 8004 – Copper brown
Copper brown RAL 8004 is a warm, earthy shade that gives the containers a natural and rustic look. This color is often used in agriculture or when storing natural materials. Copper brown goes well with rural and natural environments.
RAL 8008 – Olive brown
Olive Brown RAL 8008 is a darker, rich shade of brown that provides a robust and durable look. This color is popular for containers used in forestry and military applications where the containers need to blend in with their surroundings. Olive brown is ideal for containers that need to be unobtrusive and functional at the same time.
RAL 9003 – Signal white
Signal White RAL 9003 is a clean, bright white color that is often used for containers that need to be highly visible. This color is ideal for containers used in emergency and rescue situations where quick identification is important. The signal white also gives the containers a modern and professional look.
RAL 9005 – Black
Black RAL 9005 is a universal and elegant color that gives containers a modern and sophisticated look. Black color is often chosen for containers that are supposed to be stylish and unobtrusive. Black is also practical for containers that are often exposed to dirt and dust, as a darker shade better masks dirt.
RAL 9010 – Pure white
Pure White RAL 9010 is a bright and light white color that is often used for containers that are meant to be visually appealing and clean. This color is ideal for containers used as living or office space, where aesthetic appearance is important. Pure white gives the containers a bright and spacious look.
Choosing the right color for your shipping container can have a significant impact on its functionality and aesthetic appearance. Each of the above-mentioned colors according to the RAL standard offers specific advantages and possibilities of use. Regardless of whether you need a container that will be highly visible or a container that will blend in with the surrounding environment, the RAL color standard offers you a wide range of options.
If you have any further questions about the choice of colors or need professional advice, do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to advise you in the area of surface treatments and colors for shipping containers.
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