Shipping containers are made to be durable, but after several years, it’s common to have some possible damage. Before measuring the extent of the damage and deciding the best way to repair them, it is necessary to identify which damage has occurred. Dents, scratches, and rust can frequently happen because of harsh weather, extensive use, poor maintenance, and way of handling. Here are some of the common types of container damages and tips on how to repair them:
Patching holes and fixing cracks
Rust can cause a container to develop cracks and holes. These hidden cracks and holes may allow water to flow in which can harm some fragile cargo. A shipping container that has dents, holes, and scratches can be repaired in a variety of ways. It’s considerably easy to fix minor dents and scratches. However, more extensive repairs, such as patching holes or some welding may be necessary as a result of deeper scratches and bigger holes. It’s crucial to locate these areas and fix them right away. The container may require an inspection to make sure it is structurally sound and complies with all requirements.
Repainting container
The protective paint that is typically applied to containers tends to wear off over time and lose its effectiveness. Repainting the shipping container after some repairs would bring many advantages. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, it also helps shield the metal from future rust and damage. Repainting the container is especially beneficial if you have patched the holes, treated rust and scratches, or replaced specific components.
Repairing container floor
The plywood used in shipping container floors is prone to damage over time. The floor of the container is vulnerable to scraping, seepage of water, pressure, weight, and gouging. The container floor is vulnerable to stains, water damage, and improper handling of the container during loading and unloading. It would be advantageous to change the flooring whenever you notice any cracks. Inspection on a regular basis can help find that.
Replacing Container Parts
It is crucial to seek professional assistance when replacing and repairing components, such as vents or a shipping container security system, especially when the works seem to be challenging, complicated, or potentially dangerous. It is essential to maintain the shipping container certification standards even though some container parts are easier to replace than others.
Rust removal
Rust removal is one of the most popular types of repairs. The best method to get rid of it is by sandblasting. However, welding a new piece of steel would be recommended if rust starts to appear beneath the paintwork.
Troubleshooting a reefer container
Before the container is handed over to the shipper to load the cargo, a mandatory procedure known as Pre-Trip Inspections (PTI) on reefers is necessary to carry out to make sure that all parameters are functioning properly. Regular reefer maintenance ensures the machinery inside the containers operates at good efficiency and extends their longevity.
Here are some of the best techniques to use when performing reefer container maintenance and repair:
- The power supply must be off when performing maintenance.
- Disconnect all wire harnesses from the module in the control box while performing welding on the component or its compressor. Wear a static-safe wrist wrap as you unplug the wire harness from the module.
- Take extra precautions because refrigerants like phosgene gas have inherent risks that can be increased by inhalation.
- Use a CO2 fire extinguisher and open the circuit switch right away in the event of an electrical fire.
- The reefer unit must be placed where it receives adequate airflow (minimum of one meter from walls) rather than in direct sunlight to ensure that refrigerated shipping containers perform at their best.
In conclusion:
Although it may not seem like a big deal, container repair fees can cost you a fortune, so you’ll want to avoid them as much as you can. Knowing who should be responsible for container damage will also be helpful.
A used shipping container could be in good shape when purchased, but over time any container can suffer damage. With these suggestions on how to fix damaged shipping containers, owners and businesses can restore broken components and fix dents while avoiding further damage. It is expected to repair damaged sea containers since rust, dents, and holes may happen inevitably.
Tradecorp provides conex boxes in a range of sizes whether for lease or sale which you can check out for more details on our page. We will help you find the perfect container solution for your business or project needs. Find a variety of types and sizes of shipping containers, from standard ones to tanks, and customizable ones. We will have them ready for you at a reasonable price. Fill out the contact form on our page here and we will respond to your inquiry promptly.
