WHAT IS THE SHIPPING CONTAINER MADE OF?
There is no denying the fact that shipping containers have upgraded the traditional procedures of transporting cargo and other shipments from one location to another across the ocean.
The introduction of shipment containers has not only enabled people to be secure of the cargo safety but it has also improved the capacity of goods’ shipment.
Exploring more about cargo containers, there are many types that cargo haulage service providers have, and each type exclusively performs a specific task. The container haulage service firms commonly use three variants of shipping containers – 20ft, 30ft, and 40ft.
All shipping containers feature a notion of different robust materials to make the build durable and strong so that they are capable to withstand bulky storage and shipment items and easily sail across the oceans.
Undoubtedly, some of the shipping containers might be carrying your ordered television or computer.
Also, they are up against harsh weather conditions, high tides, and windy oceans; however, the exclusive construction process, use of robust raw materials, and smart approach are what make these durables shipment boxes resistible and capable enough to withstand the weight and harsh ocean conditions.
WHAT GOES INTO THE MAKING OF SHIPPING CONTAINERS?
Typically, the shipping containers feature corten steel, which is self-weathering steel.
The core reason for this material used is the strength it has brought to the industry; the way bulky and heavy bodies were shipped across the oceans have been revolutionized for the material enables safety of the cargo load, while also increasing the overall cargo capacity.
As discussed, three variants are also available in refrigerated designs. A majority of these variants feature closed tops with doors hinged, while the walls are corrugated and welded to rails and frames.
Other materials that are being used include steel, fiber-reinforced, aluminum, and polymer; sometimes, manufacturers approach for a combination of all.
HOW THE SHIPPING CONTAINERS ARE ACTUALLY MADE?
The manufacturing process of the shipping containers begins with a big steel roll, which is first unrolled and then cut into multiple sheets. There are different dedicated factories for this purpose that are equipped with technologically advanced machinery.
The second step requires the preparation of the surface of steel sheets that have already been cut, and the process integrates the use of sandblasting and priming for the removal of contaminants, dirt, etc.
Later, the sheets are corrugated for the improvement of strength and robustness. The panels for the roof and floor braces are constructed separately and then panels of the wall are welded. Moving the top of the walls is welded with square tubing, which moves forward for assembly for the formation of a floor frame.
A separate preparation for the assembly of the door and corner post. The installation of the door assembly is done on the floor frame followed by installing the panels of the wall.
The corner posts, wall panels, door assembly, and roof panel are then assembled and welded followed by the process of priming and painting. The varnish is done on wooden frames and prepared for flooring. The flooring panels are attached by drilling holes.
Finally, the door hardware is installed along with the placement of rubber seals for the purpose of attaching watertight doors. The test is run to assess the strength of watertight doors. Lastly, monitoring is carried out for the inspection of any problem.
HOW TO KEEP SHIPPING CONTAINERS PROTECTED?
Cargo haulage service providers use shipment containers for a wide variety of uses; thus, keeping them in good condition might be a little challenge to tackle.
However, there are some tips and tricks available to keep shipping containers in a good condition regardless of their usage. To slow down rusting, which is an obvious fact near oceans, a primer is applied.
You must be extra careful when it comes to horizontal areas, pockets, and dents on the container. The oxidation process is faster when the water sits on for too long on the surface of the container, leading to increased rusting.
Another thing that you should be considering is welding seams; you must apply an additional coat of rust-resistant paint on them. Not only it will ensure good coverage of cracks and chips but it also ensures the overall strength of the container.
Conclusively, steel containers are the most common types used to endure the mighty ocean and harsh weather conditions. Some of the busiest ports, like Felixstowe in the UK, have been catering such shipment goods for a long. The container haulage service in Felixstowe has the best and durable containers for the shipment of goods.
