An offshore reefer container is a refrigerated container designed to transport and store temperature-sensitive goods in offshore, marine and industrial environments. TLS reefer containers can be configured with refrigeration equipment, temperature control, fresh-air exchange, shelving and internal fittings suited to the cargo.

The purpose of the reefer is to maintain the required cargo environment during transport, storage and offshore operation. The final temperature range and equipment selection depend on the type of goods, operating location and project requirements. TLS Offshore Reefer Containers

What Can Be Stored in a TLS Reefer Container?

TLS identifies several types of temperature-sensitive cargo, including:

• Fruit and vegetables.
• Dairy products.
• Meat.
• Food supplies.
• Pharmaceutical or laboratory materials, when the required conditions are defined.
• Other temperature-sensitive goods.

The internal arrangement depends on the cargo. Some projects may need open floor space, while others may require adjustable shelving, storage racks or specific access arrangements.

The customer should explain the cargo type, packaging, loading method, storage duration and required temperature before the reefer configuration is selected.

How Does the Refrigeration System Work?

A reefer container uses a refrigeration unit to remove heat from the cargo space and maintain the required temperature.

TLS states that its reefer containers can be configured with refrigeration equipment from brands such as Daikin, Carrier or Thermo King, subject to project requirements.

The refrigeration system should be selected together with:

• Required temperature range.
• Cargo heat load.
• Outdoor temperature.
• Container size.
• Loading frequency.
• Power supply.
• Monitoring requirements.
• Alarm requirements.
• Fresh-air exchange.
• Humidity conditions.

The refrigeration unit must be suitable for the actual operating environment. A system selected only from the container size may not provide the required performance after warm cargo is loaded or doors are opened frequently.

Why Is Fresh-Air Exchange Important?

Fresh-air exchange helps manage the air inside the container. It can be important when warm or moisture-laden air enters during loading, or when stored goods release carbon dioxide.

Fresh-air exchange is especially relevant for fresh produce. Fruit and vegetables may continue to breathe after harvesting and can affect the internal atmosphere.

TLS lists fresh-air exchange, humidity control and air-delivery method as part of the reefer technical specification. These functions should be agreed with the cargo requirements instead of treated as identical for every reefer container.

What Internal Features Can Be Added?

TLS reefer containers can include features such as:

• Adjustable shelving.
• Door curtains.
• Forklift pockets.
• Customized internal layouts.
• Temperature monitoring.
• Alarm options.
• Selected refrigeration equipment.
• Cargo-specific fittings.

The internal layout should allow the cargo to be loaded, unloaded and inspected without blocking air circulation.

Shelving may be useful for smaller packages, boxed goods or supplies that need organized access. Open floor space may be more suitable for pallets or larger cargo. The customer should define the loading equipment and handling method at the design stage.

Can TLS Reefer Containers Be Used Offshore?

Yes. TLS lists offshore reefer containers designed for safe handling and efficient deployment in marine and offshore environments.

Depending on the project, the container may be designed in accordance with requirements such as:

• DNV 2.7-1.
• EN 12079.
• CSC requirements.
• Certified lifting arrangements.
• Forklift handling.
• Offshore transport and deck installation requirements.

The required certification depends on how the container will be transported, lifted and installed. A standard onshore reefer should not automatically be assumed to be suitable for offshore lifting or marine deployment.

What Should Be Monitored During Operation?

The reefer specification may include temperature monitoring and alarms. These functions can help operators identify conditions such as:

• Temperature outside the permitted range.
• Refrigeration failure.
• Loss of power.
• Door-open events.
• Abnormal temperature recovery.
• High or low internal temperature.

The monitoring system should be connected to the operating procedure. An alarm is useful only when the responsible person knows what action to take, such as checking the power supply, reducing door openings or transferring the cargo.

What Information Should Customers Provide?

To prepare a reefer proposal, customers should provide:

• Cargo type.
• Required temperature.
• Required humidity, if applicable.
• Cargo quantity.
• Packaging method.
• Loading and unloading method.
• Storage duration.
• Internal layout requirements.
• Power supply.
• Monitoring and alarm requirements.
• Delivery location.
• Offshore certification requirements.

This information allows TLS to select the refrigeration equipment, internal fittings and structural configuration more accurately.

FAQ

1. Can TLS provide reefer containers for offshore use?

Yes. TLS provides offshore reefer containers for temperature-controlled transport and storage.

2. Which refrigeration brands can be used?

TLS lists Daikin, Carrier and Thermo King configurations, subject to the project requirements.

3. Can the internal temperature be customized?

The temperature range and control requirements can be configured according to the cargo and operating environment.

4. Can the reefer include shelving?

Yes. Adjustable shelving and customized internal layouts are available options.

5. Are offshore reefer containers the same as ordinary refrigerated containers?

No. Offshore deployment may require additional structural, lifting, handling and certification requirements such as DNV 2.7-1, EN 12079 or CSC.

Provide the cargo details, temperature requirements, power supply, internal layout, delivery location and required offshore certification. Contact TLS

Written by Snowy