As renewable energy continues to expand worldwide, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) have become an essential part of modern power infrastructure. Whether supporting utility-scale solar farms, wind power plants, microgrids, commercial facilities, or EV charging stations, every BESS project begins with understanding two critical specifications: MW (Megawatts) and MWh (Megawatt-hours).

Although these terms are frequently mentioned together, they represent two completely different characteristics of an energy storage system. Understanding the relationship between MW and MWh helps project developers, EPC contractors, utilities, and investors select the right battery storage solution for their applications.


What Does MW Mean in a BESS?

MW (Megawatt) is a unit of power. It measures how quickly electricity can be delivered or absorbed by a battery energy storage system.

In simple terms, MW represents the speed of the battery.

For example, a 20 MW BESS can instantly supply up to 20 megawatts of electrical power to the grid or load. The higher the MW rating, the faster the battery can respond to changes in electricity demand.

High-power BESS systems are commonly used for:

  • Frequency regulation
  • Grid stabilization
  • Voltage support
  • Black start capability
  • Fast EV charging infrastructure
  • Peak demand reduction

These applications require rapid power delivery rather than long-duration energy storage.


What Does MWh Mean in a BESS?

MWh (Megawatt-hour) measures energy capacity, or the total amount of electricity that can be stored inside the battery.

Think of MWh as the fuel tank of the energy storage system.

For example:

  • A 40 MWh battery can deliver:
  • 20 MW for 2 hours
  • 10 MW for 4 hours
  • 5 MW for 8 hours

The larger the MWh rating, the longer the battery can continue supplying electricity before it requires recharging.

Large energy capacity is especially important for:

  • Renewable energy integration
  • Solar energy shifting
  • Wind farm smoothing
  • Backup power
  • Island microgrids
  • Commercial and industrial energy management
  • Long-duration energy storage

Energy capacity determines the operational duration of the battery system rather than its instantaneous output.


Understanding the Relationship Between MW and MWh

The relationship between MW and MWh is straightforward:

Energy (MWh) = Power (MW) × Time (hours)

For example:

  • 50 MW / 100 MWh = 2-hour storage system
  • 100 MW / 400 MWh = 4-hour storage system
  • 10 MW / 20 MWh = 2-hour storage system

This "duration" has become one of the most important design parameters in utility-scale battery storage projects.

A 1-hour system is typically designed for frequency response and ancillary services, while 2- to 4-hour systems are widely used for renewable energy integration, peak shaving, and energy arbitrage. Longer-duration systems continue to gain popularity as grids increase their reliance on solar and wind generation.


Why Choosing the Right MW/MWh Ratio Matters

Selecting the correct power-to-energy ratio directly affects project performance and return on investment.

A system with high MW but relatively low MWh delivers strong instantaneous power but cannot sustain it for long. Conversely, a system with high MWh and moderate MW can provide electricity over extended periods, making it ideal for energy shifting and backup applications.

Factors that influence system sizing include:

  • Local grid requirements
  • Renewable generation profiles
  • Peak demand periods
  • Electricity market regulations
  • Ancillary service participation
  • Investment objectives

Experienced BESS manufacturers work closely with customers to optimize both the power rating and energy capacity according to project-specific requirements.


Why More Developers Choose TLS Energy for BESS Containers

As one of the world's leading manufacturers of containerized energy storage solutions, TLS Energy International specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality BESS containers for utility-scale, commercial, and industrial applications.

With advanced engineering capabilities and extensive manufacturing experience, TLS Energy supplies customized BESS enclosure solutions ranging from standard battery containers to fully integrated energy storage systems.

TLS Energy provides:

  • High-strength containerized BESS enclosures
  • Customized 20-foot and 40-foot BESS containers
  • Liquid-cooled and air-cooled battery solutions
  • Integrated fire suppression systems
  • HVAC and thermal management systems
  • Intelligent battery monitoring
  • Modular designs for easy transportation and installation
  • Compliance with international safety and quality standards

Every BESS container is engineered to maximize safety, reliability, and operational efficiency while simplifying installation and reducing project costs.


TLS Offshore Containers – Your Trusted Global Partner

As the global demand for battery energy storage continues to grow, selecting the right manufacturing partner is just as important as choosing the right battery technology.

TLS Offshore Containers International and TLS Energy International have established themselves as trusted global suppliers of containerized energy storage solutions, serving utilities, renewable energy developers, EPC contractors, and industrial customers across Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Whether your project requires a high-power grid stabilization system, a long-duration renewable energy storage solution, or a customized containerized BESS enclosure, TLS delivers world-class engineering, flexible manufacturing, and comprehensive technical support.

If you are planning your next Battery Energy Storage System project, understanding the difference between MW and MWh is the first step toward selecting the ideal solution. Partnering with TLS Offshore Containers and TLS Energy ensures you receive safe, reliable, and future-ready BESS containers engineered for the evolving global energy market.

Short Answer

A containerized electrical room is a prefabricated modular enclosure designed to house and protect electrical equipment such as MCCs, switchgear, VFDs, PLC systems, and control equipment.


Compared with traditional site-built electrical rooms, containerized electrical rooms are manufactured off-site, allowing faster installation, easier transportation, and customized integration of electrical, HVAC, fire protection, and safety systems.


They are widely used in offshore facilities, renewable energy projects, industrial plants, mining operations, and power infrastructure projects.


What Is a Containerized Electrical Room?


A containerized electrical room is a customized modular unit that provides a controlled environment for electrical and automation equipment.

Unlike standard shipping containers, these units are engineered specifically for industrial applications and can include:


  • Electrical equipment rooms
  • MCC rooms
  • Switchgear rooms
  • Control rooms
  • PLC rooms
  • VFD rooms
  • Instrumentation rooms

The main purpose is to protect sensitive electrical systems from environmental conditions while providing a safe and reliable operating space.


What Equipment Can Be Installed Inside?


A containerized electrical room can be designed to accommodate different types of equipment, including:


  • Motor Control Centers (MCC)
  • Switchgear
  • Variable Frequency Drives (VFD)
  • PLC control systems
  • Power distribution panels
  • UPS systems
  • Battery systems
  • Communication equipment
  • Monitoring systems

The internal layout is customized according to:

  • Equipment dimensions
  • Maintenance access requirements
  • Cable routing
  • Heat load
  • Operational workflow


Why Are Containerized Electrical Rooms Used?


Faster Project Deployment

Traditional electrical buildings often require:

  • Civil construction
  • On-site installation
  • Multiple contractor coordination

Containerized electrical rooms are manufactured and tested in a controlled factory environment, reducing installation work at the project site.


Better Equipment Protection

Electrical equipment requires protection from:

  • Dust
  • Humidity
  • Salt atmosphere
  • Temperature variations
  • Harsh industrial environments

A properly designed enclosure can integrate:

  • HVAC systems
  • Insulation
  • Corrosion protection
  • Fire detection
  • Access control

to maintain suitable operating conditions.


Flexible and Modular Design

Containerized electrical rooms can be relocated, expanded, or modified according to project requirements.

This makes them suitable for projects where:

  • Space is limited;
  • Installation schedules are tight;
  • Future expansion is expected.


Key Design Features of a Containerized Electrical Room


Structural Design

For offshore and heavy industrial applications, the enclosure may require:

  • Reinforced steel structure
  • Lifting points
  • Marine-grade coating
  • Corrosion protection

For offshore lifting applications, designs can be developed according to requirements such as DNV 2.7-1 and EN 12079.


HVAC and Environmental Control

Electrical equipment performance depends on stable environmental conditions.

Typical systems include:

  • Air conditioning
  • Ventilation
  • Temperature monitoring
  • Humidity control

The HVAC design is selected according to:

  • Equipment heat load
  • Installation location
  • Ambient temperature conditions


Fire Protection and Safety Systems

Depending on the application, containerized electrical rooms may include:

  • Fire detection
  • Gas detection
  • Fire suppression systems
  • Emergency shutdown functions
  • Fire-rated construction

The required protection level depends on project risk assessment and applicable regulations.


Hazardous Area Applications

Some electrical rooms are installed in areas where flammable gases may exist.

For these applications, additional protection may be required, including:

  • Positive pressurization systems
  • Hazardous area electrical equipment
  • Gas monitoring
  • Automatic purge systems

Pressurized electrical rooms can provide a protected environment where standard electrical equipment can operate safely in classified hazardous locations.


Offshore and Industrial Applications


Containerized electrical rooms are commonly used in:


Offshore Oil & Gas

Applications include:

  • MCC shelters
  • Electrical rooms
  • Control cabins
  • Instrumentation rooms


Renewable Energy

Examples:

  • Wind farm electrical shelters
  • Solar power facilities
  • Energy storage projects


Industrial Facilities

Examples:

  • Mining operations
  • Petrochemical plants
  • Power generation facilities


Containerized Electrical Room vs Traditional Electrical Building


The main difference is the construction approach.


Containerized Electrical Room

Traditional Electrical Building

Manufacturing

Factory-built module

Site construction

Installation

Faster deployment

Longer construction period

Customization

High flexibility

Requires site modification

Transportation

Modular relocation possible

Usually permanent

For projects requiring rapid deployment or remote installation, containerized solutions can provide significant advantages.


TLS Containerized Electrical Room Solutions


TLS Offshore Containers International designs and manufactures customized modular electrical rooms for offshore and industrial applications.

Solutions can be configured for:

  • MCC rooms
  • Switchgear rooms
  • Control rooms
  • PLC rooms
  • Hazardous area applications
  • Offshore lifting requirements

Depending on project requirements, TLS modules can integrate:

  • Electrical equipment layouts
  • HVAC systems
  • Fire protection systems
  • Pressurization systems
  • Cable management solutions

Each unit is engineered according to the operational environment and customer specifications.


How to Select the Right Containerized Electrical Room?


Before selecting a solution, project teams should confirm:

1. Application 

  • MCC room?
  • Switchgear room?
  • Control room?

2. Installation environment 

  • Offshore?
  • Onshore?
  • Hazardous area?

3. Equipment requirements 

  • Heat load
  • Power requirements
  • Maintenance space

4. Certification requirements 

  • DNV 2.7-1
  • IEC hazardous area requirements
  • Fire protection requirements


Frequently Asked Questions


Is a containerized electrical room the same as an E-House?

Not exactly. Both provide modular electrical infrastructure, but the scope and design requirements depend on the project. Containerized electrical rooms can be customized for specific applications such as MCC, switchgear, and control systems.

Can containerized electrical rooms be used offshore?

Yes. Offshore electrical rooms can be designed with reinforced structures, corrosion protection, and offshore certification requirements when necessary.

Are containerized electrical rooms suitable for hazardous areas?

Yes. When required, they can include pressurization systems and hazardous area protection solutions.

What certifications may be required?

Requirements depend on the project. Common considerations include DNV 2.7-1, EN 12079, IEC hazardous area standards, and client-specific specifications.


Conclusion



A containerized electrical room is a modular solution designed to protect and operate critical electrical systems in demanding industrial environments.

The correct design depends on:

1. Equipment requirements;

2. Installation environment;

3. Safety regulations;

4. Certification requirements.

By combining structural protection, environmental control, and customized equipment integration, containerized electrical rooms provide a flexible approach for offshore and industrial power infrastructure.


TLS Offshore Containers / TLS Energy is a global supplier of standard and customised containerised solutions. 

Wherever you are in the world, TLS can help you. Please contact us.


Short Answer


A mud logging cabin is a specialized offshore container designed to provide a controlled workspace for monitoring drilling data, analyzing geological information, and supporting real-time decision-making during drilling operations.


Unlike standard offshore containers, mud logging cabins are equipped with dedicated workstations, data acquisition systems, communication equipment, HVAC systems, and other technical facilities required for continuous drilling monitoring.


For offshore applications, mud logging cabins are commonly designed to meet requirements such as DNV 2.7-1 and EN 12079 for offshore lifting and transportation, with additional hazardous area solutions available when required.


What Is a Mud Logging Cabin?


A mud logging cabin is a functional offshore module used by mud logging teams during oil and gas drilling operations.


The cabin provides a protected working environment where engineers and technicians collect, monitor, and interpret important drilling information, including:


  • Drilling parameters
  • Gas detection data
  • Formation evaluation information
  • Mud properties
  • Geological samples
  • Well condition indicators

The information collected inside the cabin helps drilling teams understand underground formations, monitor well conditions, and make timely operational decisions.


Mud logging cabins are commonly installed on:

  • Offshore drilling rigs
  • Jack-up rigs
  • Semi-submersible rigs
  • Drillships
  • Offshore production facilities


What Does a Mud Logging Cabin Do?


The primary function of a mud logging cabin is to support real-time drilling monitoring and geological analysis.A typical mud logging cabin enables operators to:


Monitor Drilling Performance

The cabin provides space for monitoring:

  • Rate of penetration (ROP)
  • Drilling parameters
  • Mud circulation information
  • Operational trends

Detect Formation and Well Conditions

Mud logging systems help identify:

  • Formation changes
  • Hydrocarbon indications
  • Gas levels
  • Abnormal drilling conditions

Support Communication and Decision-Making

The cabin provides an operational workspace where drilling data can be analyzed and shared with:

  • Drilling engineers
  • Geologists
  • Offshore supervisors
  • Operation teams


Mud Logging Cabin vs MWD/LWD Cabin: What Is the Difference?


Mud logging cabins and MWD/LWD cabins are often used together in drilling operations, but they serve different purposes.


Mud Logging Cabin

Focuses on:

  • Surface drilling data monitoring
  • Geological analysis
  • Gas detection
  • Mud and cutting analysis

MWD/LWD Cabin

Focuses on:

  • l Downhole measurement data
  • l Directional drilling information
  • l Formation evaluation while drilling
  • l Real-time wellbore information

In simple terms:

Mud logging focuses on surface-based drilling monitoring and geological interpretation, while MWD/LWD focuses on downhole measurement and drilling control data.


Key Design Features of an Offshore Mud Logging Cabin


Because offshore environments involve harsh operating conditions, mud logging cabins require specialized engineering.

Offshore Structural Design

A properly designed offshore mud logging cabin typically includes:

  • Reinforced steel structure
  • Offshore lifting points
  • Load-bearing frame design
  • Marine-grade corrosion protection

For offshore lifting operations, the cabin can be designed according to requirements such as DNV 2.7-1 and EN 12079.


Controlled Internal Environment

Mud logging equipment requires a stable working environment.

Typical features include:

  • Thermal insulation
  • HVAC systems
  • Temperature control
  • Noise reduction
  • Suitable lighting conditions

These features help maintain reliable operation of electronic equipment and provide a comfortable workspace for personnel.


Equipment Integration

A mud logging cabin can be customized with:

  • Operator workstations
  • Data acquisition systems
  • Communication systems
  • Instrument panels
  • Server racks
  • Storage cabinets
  • Power distribution systems
  • Emergency safety equipment

The internal layout is normally customized according to the customer's equipment list and workflow requirements


Hazardous Area Solutions for Mud Logging Cabins


Some offshore drilling locations involve hazardous areas where explosive gases may be present.

For these applications, mud logging cabins may require additional safety systems, including:

  • Positive pressurization systems
  • Gas detection systems
  • Fire and smoke detection
  • Emergency shutdown functions
  • Hazardous area electrical equipment

When hazardous area operation is required, the cabin design should consider applicable standards and project specifications, such as IEC 60079-related requirements.


DNV 2.7-1 and EN 12079 Certification Requirements


Certification is an important consideration when selecting an offshore mud logging cabin.

DNV 2.7-1 / EN 12079

These standards focus on offshore transportable units and cover areas such as:

  • Structural integrity
  • Offshore lifting safety
  • Load testing
  • Inspection requirements
  • Manufacturing quality control

Compliance helps ensure that the cabin can be safely transported and lifted in offshore environments.

It is important to note that offshore certification and hazardous area certification address different requirements:

  • DNV 2.7-1 → offshore structural and lifting safety
  • IEC hazardous area standards → safe operation in potentially explosive atmospheres

A project may require one or both depending on the application.


Why Use a Modular Mud Logging Cabin?


Compared with site-built offshore facilities, containerized mud logging cabins provide several advantages:

  • Faster Deployment

Factory-built modules can reduce offshore installation work and shorten project schedules.

  • Easier Transportation

Containerized designs allow easier movement between offshore locations.

  • Flexible Customization

Layouts, equipment integration, and technical systems can be adapted according to project requirements.

  • Consistent Manufacturing Quality

Factory-controlled production allows better quality control compared with fully site-built solutions.


TLS Offshore Mud Logging Cabin Solutions


TLS Offshore Containers International designs and manufactures customized offshore functional containers for global energy projects.

TLS mud logging cabins can be customized according to project requirements, including:

  • DNV 2.7-1 offshore certification
  • EN 12079 requirements
  • Hazardous area applications
  • Customized internal layouts
  • Equipment integration
  • Offshore lifting requirement

Each cabin is engineered according to the operational needs of the drilling project, providing a dedicated workspace for reliable data monitoring and offshore operations.


How to Select the Right Mud Logging Cabin?


Before selecting a mud logging cabin, project teams should confirm:

1. Installation Environment

  • Offshore rig type
  • Marine conditions
  • Hazardous area classification

2. Certification Requirements

  • DNV 2.7-1
  • EN 12079
  • Hazardous area requirements
  • Client-specific standards

3. Equipment Requirements

  • Number of operators
  • Required instruments
  • Communication systems
  • Electrical requirements

4. Operational Requirements

  • Working hours
  • Maintenance requirements
  • Future relocation needs


Frequently Asked Questions


What is the main purpose of a mud logging cabin?

A mud logging cabin provides a dedicated workspace for monitoring drilling parameters, analyzing geological information, and supporting real-time drilling decisions.

Are mud logging cabins required to be DNV 2.7-1 certified?

Not every project requires DNV 2.7-1 certification, but offshore lifting applications commonly require compliance with offshore container standards.

What is the difference between a mud logging cabin and a normal container?

A mud logging cabin is a functional offshore module designed for drilling monitoring activities, including equipment integration, HVAC, electrical systems, and specialized workspace requirements.

Can a mud logging cabin be used in hazardous areas?

Yes. When required, mud logging cabins can be designed with pressurization, gas detection, and hazardous area protection systems.

Can TLS customize mud logging cabins?

Yes. Mud logging cabins can be customized based on layout requirements, equipment configuration, certification needs, and offshore operating conditions.


Conclusion


A mud logging cabin is a specialized offshore workspace that supports real-time drilling monitoring, geological analysis, and operational decision-making.

When selecting a mud logging cabin, the key factors are:

  • Application requirements;
  • Offshore certification needs;
  • Hazardous area classification;
  • Equipment integration;
  • Installation environment.

A correctly designed mud logging cabin provides a safe and reliable working environment while supporting efficient offshore drilling operations.


TLS Offshore Containers / TLS Energy is a global supplier of standard and customised containerised solutions. 

Wherever you are in the world, TLS can help you. Please contact us.


Do You Need an A60 Fire Rated Container for Your Offshore Project?


A60 fire rating is not required for every offshore container.


Whether a container needs A60 fire protection depends on its application, installation environment, safety requirements, and project specifications.


In general:

  • Offshore accommodation modules, control rooms, and safety-critical spaces often require A60 fire protection. 
  • General offshore workshops, storage containers, and equipment modules may not require A60 unless specified by the client or by regulatory requirements. 

It is important to understand that offshore certification and fire rating are two different requirements.


For example:


  • DNV 2.7-1 certification mainly focuses on offshore container structural integrity, lifting safety, and transportation requirements.
  • A60 rating focuses on fire resistance performance and fire separation.

A container can be DNV 2.7-1 certified without being A60 rated, depending on the application.


What Standards Define A60 Fire Protection?


A60 fire protection requirements are mainly related to marine fire safety regulations and project specifications.


SOLAS Requirements

The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) provides international requirements for fire safety on ships.

SOLAS addresses areas such as:

  • Fire-resistant divisions
  • Protection of accommodation spaces
  • Escape routes
  • Fire prevention arrangements

For offshore modules installed on vessels or marine facilities, SOLAS requirements may apply depending on the project type.


IMO FTP Code

The International Maritime Organization Fire Test Procedures (FTP) Code defines test methods for marine fire protection systems.


For A60-rated modules, the evaluation normally considers the performance of the complete fire-resistant structure, including:

  • Walls
  • Ceilings
  • Decks
  • Doors
  • Windows
  • Penetrations

The purpose is to ensure the module can maintain fire separation and limit heat transfer during a defined fire exposure period.


What Makes a Container A60 Fire Rated?


An A60-rated container is not defined by a single component. The entire construction system must achieve the required fire resistance performance.

Key elements include:


1. Fire Resistant Wall, Ceiling and Floor Construction

The main structure typically includes:

  • Fire-resistant insulation materials
  • Approved internal panels
  • Steel framework
  • Tested construction methods

The insulation system must limit temperature increase on the non-fire side during fire exposure.


2. A60 Fire-Rated Doors

Doors are critical components because openings can reduce fire protection performance.

An A60 door system normally requires:

  • Fire resistance approval
  • Proper sealing system
  • Correct installation method

Installing an A60 door alone does not make the entire container A60-rated.


3. Fire-Rated Windows

Windows require special consideration, especially for control rooms or observation areas.

Standard safety glass does not automatically provide A60 fire protection.

Depending on project requirements, the module may require:

  • Marine fire-rated windows
  • Certified fire-resistant glazing systems
  • Specific size limitations



4. Protected Cable and HVAC Penetrations

Fire performance can be compromised through openings for:

  • Electrical cables
  • HVAC ducts
  • Pipes
  • Cable transit systems

Proper fire-rated sealing solutions are required to maintain compartment integrity.


When is an A60 fire-rated container required?


1. Offshore Accommodation Modules

Accommodation spaces are one of the most common applications requiring A60 fire protection.

Examples include:

  • Living quarters
  • Sleeping cabins
  • Mess rooms
  • Temporary offshore accommodation units

The main purpose is to protect personnel and maintain safe evacuation conditions during a fire event.


2. Offshore Control Rooms

Control rooms may require A60 protection when they contain critical operational equipment or are located near potential fire hazards.

Examples include:

  • Process control rooms
  • Electrical control rooms
  • Emergency response rooms

The objective is to protect both personnel and critical systems.


3. Modules Installed Near Hazardous Areas

Containers located close to areas with increased fire risk may require enhanced fire protection.

Examples:

  • Oil and gas processing areas
  • Drilling areas
  • Fuel handling areas

The final requirement depends on the project fire risk assessment and client specifications.


When A60 May Not Be Necessary?


Not every offshore application requires A60 construction.

For example:


Offshore Workshop Containers

Used for:

  • Equipment maintenance
  • Repair work
  • Tools and machinery storage

The main requirements may focus on:

  • Structural strength
  • Offshore lifting capability
  • Corrosion protection
  • Functional layout


Offshore Storage Containers

Used for:

  • Spare parts
  • General materials
  • Equipment storage

These applications typically require offshore certification and durability rather than fire-rated accommodation standards.


A60 Certified Module vs A60 Compliant Construction: What Is the Difference?

This distinction is important during project specification.


A60 Certified Module

Means:

  • The complete module has been evaluated according to relevant fire testing requirements.
  • Fire performance documentation is available.
  • The construction system has been verified.


A60 Compliant Construction

Means:

  • The design follows A60-related requirements.
  • Certain materials or components may meet fire performance expectations.
  • However, the complete module may not have formal certification.

Before quotation or manufacturing, customers should clarify whether they require:

  • A fully certified A60 module;
  • An A60-rated construction design;
  • Individual A60 components only.


How Should Customers Specify A60 Requirements?


To avoid incorrect specifications, customers should confirm the following information:

1. Application

What will the container be used for?

  • Accommodation
  • Control room
  • Laboratory
  • Workshop
  • Storage

2. Installation Location

Where will it be installed?

  • Offshore platform
  • Offshore vessel
  • Wind farm facility
  • Onshore hazardous area

3. Required Approval Level

Does the project require:

  • A60 fire-rated construction?
  • Full A60 certification?
  • Classification society approval?
  • Client-specific fire protection standard?

4. Applicable Regulations

Confirm whether requirements are based on:

  • SOLAS
  • IMO FTP Code
  • Classification society rules
  • Operator engineering specifications


Common Misunderstandings About A60 Containers


“All offshore containers require A60 certification.”---Incorrect.

Offshore certification and A60 fire protection address different risks.

Offshore certification focuses mainly on structural safety and lifting requirements, while A60 focuses on fire resistance.


“An A60 door means the whole container is A60.”---Incorrect.

The complete module, including walls, ceiling, floor, windows, and penetrations, must meet the required fire protection standard.


“A60 only depends on insulation thickness.”---Incorrect.

A60 performance depends on the complete construction system, approved components, and installation quality.


Conclusion


A60 fire protection should be specified based on the function and risk level of the module, not simply because the container is used offshore.

Before selecting an A60 container, project teams should confirm:

1. Module application;

2. Installation environment;

3. Applicable regulations;

4. Required certification level.


FAQ

1. Do all offshore containers need A60 certification?

No. Many offshore containers only require offshore structural certification such as DNV 2.7-1, while A60 is required for specific fire-protected applications.

2. Is DNV 2.7-1 the same as A60?

No. DNV 2.7-1 covers offshore container structural and lifting requirements. A60 covers fire resistance performance.

3. Does an offshore accommodation container usually require A60?

Yes, offshore accommodation modules commonly require higher fire protection levels because they are designed for personnel occupancy.

4. Can a standard container be upgraded to A60?

A conversion may be possible, but achieving recognized A60 performance requires proper engineering design, approved materials, and verification of the complete structure.

5. Does an A60 container require A60 doors and windows?

Yes. All openings and penetrations must be considered because they can affect overall fire resistance performance.



TLS Offshore Containers / TLS Energy is a global supplier of standard and customised containerised solutions. 

Wherever you are in the world, TLS can help you. Please contact us.


In modern offshore energy, chemical refining, and mining operations, real-time sample analysis and fluid testing must happen right at the site. However, bringing sensitive analytical instruments, volatile chemical reagents, and lab technicians into explosive atmospheres (Zone 1 or Zone 2) presents extreme safety challenges.


TLS Offshore Containers International engineers highly specialized, certified Mobile Laboratory Containers designed to solve this exact problem. Combining rigid marine-grade structure with intelligent climate control and critical environmental isolation, these laboratory cabins serve as safe, blast-resistant, and fully compliant research environments anywhere in the world.


1. Differential Pressure Control: Positive vs. Negative Pressurization

Unlike standard equipment shelters, a laboratory container must manage internal air dynamics depending on the nature of the samples being tested. TLS engineers these units with precise HVAC controls to support two distinct safety philosophies:

  • Positive Pressure Labs (Ex-proof Protection): By maintaining an internal pressure higher than the outside atmosphere, the cabin blocks hazardous hydrocarbons or explosive gases from entering. This allows standard, non-explosion-proof laboratory instruments (such as gas chromatographs or spectrometers) to run safely in Zone 1 or Zone 2 locations.
  • Negative Pressure Labs (Containment Protection): If the lab is used for testing highly toxic gases, hazardous chemical vapors, or dangerous biological samples, the cabin maintains a lower internal pressure. This ensures that no hazardous internal air or toxic fumes can escape into the surrounding environment, protecting personnel working outside on the deck.


2. Certified to Stand Up to the Harshest Environments

When operations move offshore or into heavy chemical plants, equipment durability cannot be compromised. TLS Laboratory Containers are designed, load-tested, and certified according to the world’s most stringent maritime and hazardous location engineering frameworks:

International Standard

Technical Scope

Operational Importance

DNV 2.7-1 / EN 12079

Structural design, offshore lifting, and dynamic drop testing.

Guaranteed structural survival during open-sea crane lifting and extreme marine weather.

Zone 1 / Zone 2 (ATEX/IECEx)

Hazardous area electrical compliance for explosive gas environments.

Total electrical component safety, preventing any internal spark from causing external ignition.

A60 Passive Fire Protection

High-grade thermal insulation for walls, doors, and escape hatches.

Blocks hydrocarbon fire heat for 60 minutes, giving lab technicians vital time to safely evacuate or shelter.

CSC Certification

International Convention for Safe Containers.

Allows the unit to be shipped globally as standard freight via sea container ships, rail, or flatbed trucks.


3. High-Spec Interior Layout: Tailored for Scientific Precision

A TLS Laboratory Container is not just a shell; it is delivered as a turnkey, pre-commissioned facility. The interior engineering is completely optimized for industrial laboratory workflows:

  • Premium Marine Materials: High-grade, chemical-resistant stainless steel (316L) countertops, custom cabinetry, and seamless, anti-static, non-slip flooring that resists aggressive chemical spills.
  • Fume Hood Integration: Tailored extraction hoods fitted with ATEX-certified exhaust fans and specialized carbon or HEPA filtration units to handle toxic, acidic, or flammable vapors safely.
  • Intelligent Utilities: Pre-installed gas manifold systems (for carrier gases like Nitrogen, Helium, or Hydrogen), emergency eyewash stations, specialized water drainage systems, and stabilized power supplies to protect sensitive digital analyzers.


4. Seamless Logistics & Direct Turnkey Implementation

Procurement and logistics teams face immense pressure to keep project timelines tight. TLS minimizes on-site installation friction by providing a plug-and-play architecture. Every mobile lab undergoes meticulous Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) before dispatch.


Available in highly flexible sizes—including standard 10ft, 15ft, 20ft, and 40ft footprints, as well as bespoke dimensions—these units integrate flawlessly into crowded layouts on offshore platforms, FPSO, refineries, or remote mining camps.


Request a Technical Layout and Quote

Whether you are planning a mud logging laboratory, a water treatment testing facility, or a high-security petrochemical analysis cabin, TLS engineers are ready to build a configuration suited to your operational footprint.


TLS Offshore Containers / TLS Energy is a global supplier of standard and customised containerised solutions. 

Wherever you are in the world, TLS can help you. Please contact us.

 

Please download the Laboratory container brochure for reference.