Refrigerated containers, sometimes called portable cold store units or “reefers,” use an advanced refrigeration system to maintain a controlled environment for perishable goods.

The Refrigeration Unit

Each reefer container includes a refrigeration unit that is made up of a compressor, condenser, and evaporator. The table below explains what they do.

Compressor Condenser Evaporator
Pumps refrigerant gas into the condenser. Cools and condenses the gas into a liquid The liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the container’s interior, cooling the air inside.

Constant air circulation is crucial for ensuring that all parts of the container remain at the desired temperature. The refrigeration unit circulates the chilled air in the container to maintain a consistent temperature.

Refrigerated Container for hire

Power Sources

Reefers can be powered by:

Electricity – when stationary, in a fixed location. However, refrigerated containers typically run on a 3-phase 380/440 volt supply with earth and neutral power supply, and most domestic power supplies are 1-phase. This means it is unlikely that a reefer container can be powered from your home electric supply, without additional electrical set up. We recommend you consult a qualified electrician to ensure that you, your reefer container and the perishable goods inside it will be safe at all times.

Diesel Generators – Obviously when the reefer container is on the move, you can’t plug it into a three-phase socket – you’d need a very long lead! In all seriousness though, a diesel generator is typically used to power portable cold store units on road or rail transport.

Cryogenic Cooling – cryogenic cooling can be used for shorter journeys. It utilises frozen carbon dioxide (dry ice) or liquid nitrogen to keep the reefer temperature, controlled and at the desired level.

Temperature Control

The temperature of the portable cold store unit can be set between -25ºC and +25 ºC, depending on the cargo. Some more advanced reefers have additional controls to manage humidity as well.

20ft Reefer container, buy or hire

Which industries need portable cold store units?

Food and Beverage industry – this should go without saying really, perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, seafood and beverages all require refrigeration to maintain their freshness. Refrigerated containers are vital for keeping our food fresh and good to eat.

Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies – Some vaccines, medicines and other medical supplies must be kept at specific temperatures to remain effective.

Agriculture – Transporting live plants, seeds and other agricultural products that require consistent temperature controls all require a refrigerated storage container.

Chemicals and engineering equipment – Chemicals and engineering materials often require controlled environments with a consistent temperature to maintain safety and stability.

Floriculture – Flowers and potted plants often need to be kept at a consistent temperature, to maintain their bloom and freshness.

Electronic components – Some components and devices must be kept at a consistent temperature to avoid damage during transportation.

Fine Art and Antiques – To avoid deterioration, some antiques and fine art pieces need to be kept at specific temperatures and humidity conditions whilst in transit. Choosing a reefer container with humidity controls is advisable.

Buy or Hire a refrigerated container from Containers 4 Sale

If you need a refrigerated container, then you’ve come to the right place! We offer 20ft and 40ft refrigerated containers for hire or purchase.

If you choose to hire a refrigerated container from us, we offer a unique and exclusive 24-hour emergency breakdown service on the machinery section.

Features

  • Temperature ranges between +25 and -25
  • Environmentally friendly units running on ozone friendly gas refrigerant
  • Stainless steel interior
  • Operating on 3 phase power
  • T-section flooring
  • Chequer plate aluminium flooring – subject to availability
  • Containerised double barn doors
  • Butcher style doors – subject to availability
  • Fully secure and lockable

Get in touch with us on 01708 558999 to discuss your requirements, our friendly and knowledgeable team will be on hand to talk you through all the options we have available. Or, if you know exactly what you need already, you can fill in our quote form to find out more.

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