Refrigerated container

Refrigerated containers (RC) are used for goods which need to be transported at a constant temperature above or below freezing point. These goods are divided into chilled goods and frozen goods, depending on the specified transport temperature. They principally include fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy products, such as butter and cheese.

Special controlled atmosphere refrigerated containers are available for transporting fruit and vegetables which may be stored for a longer period in a controlled or modified atmosphere.

The atmosphere is usually established by flushing the container with nitrogen and carbon dioxide. During transport, the atmosphere is regulated by nitrogen flushing or carbon dioxide and ethylene scrubbers. Controlled atmosphere containers must be as gastight as possible to prevent ambient air (oxygen) from penetrating.

A number of manufacturers supply the refrigerated container market with controlled atmosphere systems which may be installed in integral refrigerated containers. Controlled atmosphere systems for porthole containers are also available. In recent years, the large refrigeration unit manufacturers have acquired an increasing share of the market for standalone controlled atmosphere containers.

The refrigerated container has an integral refrigeration unit for controlling the temperature inside the container. The refrigeration unit is arranged in such a way that the external dimensions of the container meet ISO standards and thus fit into the container ship cell guides, for example. The presence of an integral refrigeration unit entails a loss of internal volume and payload.

Refrigerated and insulated containers are mainly available as 20′ and 40′ containers.