What coolants do shipping containers use?
Shipping containers, also known as refrigerated or freezer containers, have become an indispensable tool for transporting goods that require precise temperature control. These specially designed containers, often referred to as “reefer” containers, are equipped with sophisticated refrigeration units that ensure a stable temperature is maintained from -25°C to +25°C, depending on the needs of the goods being transported. In this article, we look at the different types of coolants used in these containers.
Main types of coolants
R134a
R134a coolant is one of the most commonly used in shipping containers. This type of refrigerant is known for its stability and cooling efficiency. R134a is used in many standard refrigeration units and offers a temperature range of -25°C to +25°C. It is a proven choice for a wide range of applications, including the transport of food, pharmaceuticals and other temperature sensitive products.
R404A
Another popular coolant is R404A. This type of refrigerant is especially popular for its high cooling ability and reliability. R404A offers a temperature range of -30°C to +35°C, making it ideal for transporting deep-frozen products. In the future, this type is expected to be replaced by the more environmentally friendly R452A refrigerant.
R452A
R452A is a modern replacement for R404A. This type of refrigerant is designed to have a lower global warming potential (GWP) and be more environmentally friendly. R452A offers similar cooling properties to R404A, but with a lower environmental impact.
CO2 (R744)
CO2, also known as R744, is an environmentally friendly refrigerant that is increasingly used in modern refrigerated containers. Although it has a higher energy consumption, its environmental benefits make it an attractive option for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint. CO2 has a temperature range of -65°C to +45°C, making it ideal for special applications such as transporting vaccines or biotechnology materials.
Modern cooling technology
Modern refrigerated containers use advanced technology to ensure precise and reliable temperature control. The most popular technologies include TK Magnum PLUS and Daikin LXE. These systems are designed to provide rapid cooling and economical operation. In addition, they are equipped with software that optimises the performance of the cooling units at all temperature conditions.
Ecological aspects
When choosing coolants, it is important to consider their environmental impact. Traditional refrigerants such as R134a and R404A have a higher GWP, which means they contribute more to global warming. Modern alternatives such as R452A and CO2 are designed to be more environmentally friendly, making them a more sustainable choice for the future.
Maintenance and service
Maintenance of refrigeration units is crucial for their long-term reliability and efficiency. Replacing the coolant and regularly checking the refrigeration systems ensures that the containers are always ready for the harsh conditions of transport. Modern technology allows for rapid replacement of refrigeration units, minimising downtime and ensuring continuous operation.
Freezer shipping container 20’Reefer
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Corner Casting Lifting & Stacking
A corner casting is the standardized steel fitting welded into all eight corners of an ISO shipping container, and it is the single most important structural interface in modern intermodal transport. Every time a crane lifts a 30-ton container, every time a stack of boxes rides nine or ten high across the ocean, and every time a container is locked to a truck chassis or rail car, the entire force of the operation travels through these unremarkable-looking metal blocks.
What Are the Internal Dimensions of a 40 Foot Container?
A standard 40-foot dry shipping container has internal dimensions of 12,032 mm in length, 2,352 mm in width, and 2,395 mm in height — or approximately 39 feet 5⅝ inches × 7 feet 8⅝ inches × 7 feet 10¼ inches. These figures come from the published specifications of major shipping lines and align with the ISO 668 international standard for Series 1 freight containers. The internal capacity is roughly 67.7 cubic meters (2,390 cubic feet).
what is the internal dimensions of a 40 foot container
A standard 40-foot shipping container has internal dimensions of approximately 12.032 meters (39 feet 5⅝ inches) in length, 2.352 meters (7 feet 8⅝ inches) in width, and 2.395 meters (7 feet 10¼ inches) in height. These internal dimensions are significantly smaller than the external dimensions because the corrugated steel walls, structural frame, corner posts, and the floor system—composed of plywood and steel—occupy valuable space intended for cargo.
What Is the Shipping Cost for a 40ft High Cube Container?
The shipping cost for a 40ft high cube container is not a single number — it is a layered calculation spanning purchase price, international ocean freight, and local ground delivery. A used 40ft high cube container typically costs $1,550 to $5,500 to purchase, while a new one-trip unit runs $2,800 to $9,000 depending on condition, location, and whether delivery is included.