Reefer / cool tank container

For temperature-controlled transport

Reefer tank containers maintain the correct temperature, making them perfect for deep-sea transport.

Reefer units on ISO tank containers

ISO tank containers are typically built on 20 ft containers and often come with temperature controlled reefer units. These ensure that you transport your product at the right temperature. The maximum capacity of these containers is usually 24,000 litres due to insulation requirements. If your shipment doesn’t involve deep-sea traffic, consider an oversized version of the UN portable tank instead.

Reefer units for deep-sea traffic

If deep-sea traffic is required, check with the shipping line to confirm that you can place the reefer unit on one of the ISO tank containers, with the control box positioned at the rear of the container. This ensures that your reefer tanks follow shipping rules and provide the best cooling. Our team is here to help with any questions you have about this process.

Cooling channels and reefer unit placement

Understanding the principles of physics – heat rises and cold moves downward – is essential when mounting a reefer unit or cool tank unit on a reefer tank container. Place the cooling channels at the top of the container for effective cooling. Avoid putting cooling channels on the sides to minimize the risk of punctures during handling. Install these cooling channels during manufacturing for the best results, but you can also retrofit them onto a reefer tank container later if necessary.

Product-specific requirements

To ensure we provide with the best advice, we need to understand your product’s specifics. As a minimum, we would like to see the MSDS sheet and know the required product temperature during loading and transport and the expected ambient temperature, as well as the transit time and mode. We can then determine whether the reefer unit needs to cool only, or to both cool and heat the product.

We work with top-tier suppliers like Loebbe and Klinge, as well as world-class manufactures of tank containers. With our combined expertise, we can offer the best possible solution for your product.

Operation and monitoring reefer unit

The reefer unit operates with a temperature sensor fitted in a probe to measure the product temperature, as well as a second sensor that tracks the coolant temperature. This ensures your product is always transported at the optimal temperature.

Control box position and expansion tank

The control box and electrical cable are positioned as standard at the rear of the tank container. In some cases, a side position may be preferred for better access. Additionally, each water-glycol system will have an expansion tank positioned on top of the tank, with options available in both stainless steel and plastic.

Venting system and installation

Adding a venting system to reefer or cool tank containers can be very useful, especially for controlling the temperature during transport. It’s recommended to install vents on the top two cooling channels. This makes filling the tank easier, as it allows air to flow smoothly and reduces pressure build-up.

However, installing a venting system may come with extra costs. To fit the vents, the tank’s cladding and insulation may need to be opened, which requires careful planning.

With a venting system, reefer or cool tank containers can carry temperature-sensitive products more safely, efficiently and effectively.

Reefer tanks for beer transport

One key market for reefer tank containers is the beer industry. Reefer tank containers designed for beer transport are equipped with additional features to maintain product quality, such as: