Offshore reefer containers are vital for the transportation of perishable goods over long distances. They are designed to maintain the temperature and humidity levels required for the safe transportation of food and other temperature-sensitive products.
It is, however, crucial to remotely monitor the temperature and other environmental conditions inside these containers to ensure the products remain fresh and undamaged during transportation. Let’s find out why, shall we?
What are offshore reefer containers?
Offshore reefer containers, also known as offshore refrigerated containers or reefers, transport perishable goods over long offshore distances whilst offering an ideal refrigeration cycle with automated microprocessor control.
These containers maintain a constant temperature to ensure that products arrive at their destinations in good condition, preventing food, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive items from becoming damaged.
What is remote reefer temperature monitoring?
A remote reefer temperature monitoring is a specialised system that allows the remote inspection of the environment inside a reefer container. This unique technology utilises sensors placed inside the container to keep track of the temperature, moisture levels, and other conditions inside the container.
source: https://www.samsara.com/
Consequently, the data that its sensors collect is programmatically sent to a central monitoring system via either satellite or cellular networks.
What is the temperature range for offshore reefer containers?
The temperature range for offshore reefer containers varies depending on the product being transported. For example, the temperature range for frozen food products is typically between -25°C to -18°C (-13°F to 0°F).
In comparison, the temperature range for fresh food products is typically between 0°C to 4°C (32°F to 39°F). This temperature range is maintained throughout the transportation process, ensuring that fresh food products remain fresh and undamaged.
However, reefer containers from MGS Offshore sustain variable temperatures and can be flexibly adjusted to suit the product being transported. Their overall range is often from -35 °C to +15 °C.
How is the temperature inside a reefer container monitored?
Reefer containers usually have their temperature monitored using a chart or a digital logger. In addition, they typically possess data logger recorders that monitor both air, and cargo pulp temperature within a reefer unit.
The chart or logger records the temperature at set intervals and provides a record of the temperature inside the container. However, this method of temperature monitoring has its limitations.
For example, it does not provide real-time temperature readings, making it difficult to identify temperature fluctuations that could damage the products being transported.
Remote temperature monitoring addresses these limitations by providing real-time temperature readings and alerts in the event of temperature fluctuations.
How often should reefer containers be monitored during offshore shipping?
During offshore shipping, all reefer containers should be monitored at least twice per day to ensure that the products are not damaged due to temperature fluctuations.
The temperature readings should be entered in a monitoring log and retained for three years. Some reefer containers with special cargo come with instructions for more frequent monitoring and reporting.
Features of a remote temperature monitoring system for offshore reefers
A remote temperature monitoring system for offshore reefers should include the following features:
- Wireless sensors are installed inside the container to monitor the temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions.
- A central server that collects and analyses the data from the sensors in real-time.
- A web-based interface or mobile application that allows shippers and logistics providers to monitor the temperature and environmental conditions of their goods during transit.
- Alerts and notifications are sent to shippers and logistics providers in case of any deviations in temperature or other environmental conditions.
- Historical data and reports can be used to track the temperature and environmental conditions of the goods during transit.
- Automated temperature and ventilation control as available in DNV-certified reefers at MGS Offshore.
How does remote temperature monitoring work for offshore reefer containers?
Remote temperature monitoring for offshore reefer containers uses specialised sensors and communication technologies. These are connected to a centralised monitoring system to constantly monitor the temperature and humidity levels inside the container. It can be accessed by authorised personnel from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
source: https://www.orbcomm.com/
The sensors used for remote temperature monitoring are typically wireless and battery-powered, making them easy to install and maintain. They are designed to withstand harsh offshore environments, including high humidity, extreme temperatures, and rough seas.
Once installed, the sensors constantly collect data on temperature and humidity levels inside the reefer container. This data is then transmitted to the centralised monitoring system via cellular, satellite, or other wireless communication technologies. The monitoring system can then analyse the data and provide real-time alerts if the temperature or humidity levels fall outside of the desired range.
In addition to real-time monitoring and alerts, remote temperature monitoring systems can also provide detailed reports and analytics on the temperature and humidity levels inside the reefer container. This data can be used to identify trends, optimise shipping routes, and improve overall efficiency and performance.
Uses and benefits of remote temperature monitoring for offshore reefer containers
Remote temperature monitoring for offshore reefer containers is essential for many industries that rely on the transportation of perishable goods.
The following are some of the benefits and uses of this technology:
- Increased efficiency: Remote temperature monitoring systems help to improve efficiency in the transport of perishable goods by providing real-time data. This can be used to optimise the performance of the reefer container, reducing energy consumption and increasing the lifespan of the container.
- Improved product quality: The quality of perishable goods is highly dependent on the temperature at which they are stored and transported. Remote temperature monitoring ensures that the temperature inside the reefer container remains within the required range. It, thereby prevents spoilage, reducing waste, and improving product quality.
- Regulatory compliance: Many industries that transport perishable goods are subject to strict regulations governing the temperature at which these goods must be stored and transported. Remote temperature monitoring systems provide an audit trail of temperature data that can be used to demonstrate compliance with these regulations.
- Reduced risk: Remote temperature monitoring systems can help to reduce the risk of damage to perishable goods during transport. By ensuring that the temperature inside the container remains within the required range, these systems help to prevent spoilage, reduce waste, and minimise the risk of product damage.
- Cost savings: These systems can help to reduce costs associated with the transport of perishable goods by reducing energy consumption, optimising the performance of the reefer containers, and preventing spoilage and waste.
- Improved customer satisfaction: By ensuring that perishable goods are transported in optimal conditions, remote temperature monitoring systems can enhance satisfactory deliveries. Customers can be confident that the products they receive are of the highest quality and have been transported in compliance with regulations.
- Versatility: Remote temperature monitoring systems can be used to monitor a wide range of perishable goods, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. This versatility makes them an essential tool for many industries that rely on the transportation of these goods.
Also read: Guide to temperature controlled logistics
Why is it important to choose DNV-certified offshore reefer containers?
MGS Offshore’s freezer containers are DNV 2.7-1 certified for transporting and lifting goods to withstand lifting in rough seas and to avoid failure in bad environmental conditions.
DNV GL is a global certification body that provides services for a wide range of industries, including the offshore shipping industry. DNV GL certification provides assurance that offshore reefer containers are designed and manufactured to meet the highest standards of safety and quality.
Choosing DNV-certified offshore reefer containers gives assurances of:
- Safety: DNV certification provides assurance that offshore reefer containers have been designed and manufactured to meet the highest standards of safety. This includes the use of high-quality materials, rigorous testing procedures, and compliance with international safety standards.
- Quality: It comes with an assurance that offshore reefer containers are of the highest quality. This includes the use of high-quality materials, rigorous manufacturing processes, and compliance with international quality standards.
- Compliance: DNV certification ensures that offshore reefer containers comply with international regulations governing the transport of perishable goods. This includes regulations governing the temperature at which these goods must be stored and transported.
- Reliability: It provides assurance that offshore reefer containers are reliable and capable of withstanding the rigours of offshore shipping by maintaining the required temperature range.
- Peace of Mind: Choosing DNV-certified offshore reefer containers provides peace of mind for shippers and their customers, knowing that the containers have been designed and manufactured to the highest standards.
Conclusion
All things considered, remote temperature monitoring is essential for offshore reefer containers that transport food and pharmaceutical products.
Remote monitoring enables companies to ensure that their products arrive at the destination in the same condition as they were when they were loaded onto the container.
Therefore, when choosing an offshore reefer container, it is important to choose one that is DNV certified and equipped with a remote temperature monitoring system. This helps to ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and environmental protection and to comply with regulations.
Check out the range of DNV certified offshore reefer containers enhanced by Thermo King tracking technology (TracKing) available at MGS Icestorm. They come with completely automated temperature monitoring systems and an assurance of high quality!
Business Director
A graduate (Business) from KDU, Jason Tan, is the current Business Director (Sales) for MGS Icestorm and has been associated with the company for the past 10 years.
With over 13 years in the shipping industry, he has had a significant contribution to Malaysia’s oil and gas industry in the engine and boat supply sector.
His expertise includes managing offshore catering business, offshore reefer containers, AI technology, offshore gas tanks, A60 pressurized cabins, etc. His contributions have helped establish MGS, in partnership (joint venture) with Thermo King and Honeywell to produce state of art Offshore Reefer Container products.