Without a doubt, the number one enemy of sea containers is moisture. The accumulation of moisture can ultimately result in the development of mould and corrosion. It can even eventually lead to structural damage, compromising the integrity of the container and negatively impacting its longevity.
When moisture gets into a container and causes such issues, not only does this impact the container itself, but it can also damage its contents by exposing them to moisture, which could fill them with mould or mildew.
Unfortunately, condensation, known as “cargo sweat,” is a quite common issue in many sea containers and causes tons of damage every year.
This condensation usually forms on the ceiling of a sea container. It results from extreme temperature changes and humidity in the environment in which the container is stored.
After being exposed to warmer temperatures, once a container’s walls cool down below the dew point, the air within the container is no longer able to hold moisture, causing water droplets to form. Eventually, these droplets fall onto the container floor or the goods stored below.
Which factors increase moisture levels in sea containers?
Although all sea containers can potentially be at risk of moisture damage (since their metal bodies increase susceptibility to extreme and frequent temperature fluctuations), some factors can influence the development of even higher levels of condensation.
For instance, as the amount of airspace in a container increases, so does the amount of moisture-containing air. The less ventilation a container has, the less its temperature will be able to equalize, and the more its moisture will accumulate.
Storing hygroscopic items, such as wood, cardboard, paper, food, or beverages, in a sea container will also lead to spiked moisture levels since such goods release moisture into the air when outside temperatures drop. Frequent door openings, local climate, and wind levels can also impact moisture levels.
Best Methods for Countering Moisture Accumulation in a Sea Container
It is nearly impossible to completely stop the development of at least some moisture inside a sea container. However, how you handle that moisture as it builds up can make a big difference in terms of its impact.
Beyond avoiding the factors mentioned above, there are other ways that you can decrease or counter the accumulation of moisture in your sea container, including the following:
1. Pick the right pallets
When goods are stored in sea containers, it is quite common for pallets to be used as an effective way to organize and stack them safely. However, if you are going to use pallets in your sea container, it is important that you pay attention to the material they are made from.
Wooden pallets tend to absorb 35%-60% of the moisture from their surroundings. When this moisture is released inside your container, it will contribute to condensation, which is why it is much better to opt for plastic pallets.
Pallets made of freshly cut wood are the worst when it comes to this issue. So, if you are going to use wooden pallets, at least make sure the wood is older and completely dry.
2. Soak up moisture with desiccants
One more great way to limit the condensation in your sea container is through the use of desiccants, such as silica gel, charcoal, calcium sulphate, or calcium chloride. These can absorb any moisture that is present in the air to keep the container dry.
In addition, desiccants can help lower the dew point inside your sea container, which is the temperature at which water vapour transforms into a liquid condensate. For desiccants to be fully effective at reducing moisture in a sea container, ensure you are using enough of them, keep an eye on them over time, and periodically replenish them.
There are a few different approaches to effectively use desiccants in your sea container, such as installing poles filled with a desiccant on the walls of the container. It is also possible to place dry bags filled with desiccants on the container’s floor, or apply special desiccant-infused paints to the inner walls and ceiling.
3. Protect your sea container with insulation
One of the main reasons that large amounts of condensation form inside sea containers is due to extreme temperature shifts. However, you can prevent such shifts from occurring to quite a degree by insulating your container. With insulation, your sea container will be kept warm inside, and less moisture will be able to get in.
There are a number of different insulation methods that can potentially be effective for your sea container, including the use of cladding, foil-encased bubble wrap, or spray foam insulation.
Installing aluminum barriers on the floor of your sea container should also have a similar effect on moisture reduction.
4. Make use of ventilation
Another practical way to equalize temperature differences between the interior and exterior of your sea container is by installing vents that will help introduce additional airflow.
If you have adequate ventilation in your sea container, it will actively remove warm, moist air from the inside and draw ambient air from the outside to stabilize the humidity. There are various types of vents that you can choose from for this purpose, including grate-style vents, louver vents, or vents with exhaust fans.
How Secure Container Solutions Can Help You Acquire a Well-Preserved Sea Container
If you are interested in sea containers for sale to store your belongings and protect your assets, Secure Container Solutions has a constant stock of new and used ISO shipping containers, which are available in various sizes. All of our containers are clean, painted, and well-maintained, and they are each equipped with secure lock boxes that will help keep your valuables safe.
Our sea containers can be modified and customized, so no matter what your storage needs are, they can be equipped to handle them. We offer our containers for unbeatable prices, as we value the importance of a good deal. Plus, if you only require a sea container for storage on a short-term basis, we also offer flexible rental options to our customers.
For more information about our sea containers for sale, or to learn more about the distinct features of our units, call Secure Container Solutions at 647-560-2745 or contact us here.
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