Transforming Temperature-Controlled Technology

Unprotected general cargo is exposed to drastic temperatures every day. When it gets too hot out, how will you protect your temperature-sensitive shipments?

There are three different types of temperature-controlled packaging to use during extreme heat:

1.?Thermal Barrier Solutions

2.?Passive Packaging Systems

3.?Active Units

When making the decision between active and passive systems, an appreciation of the product and chosen distribution model will have an important impact. The value of the product and the cost of replacement will also influence the decision, the routes, necessary thermal protection, and product volumes.

Thermal Barrier Solutions

• Utilize a layer of insulating material to surround the temperature-sensitive product
• Provide protection against brief exposure to uncontrolled ambient conditions
• Often used to transport “ambient” or “controlled room temperature” product
• Do not have the capability to control temperature; they can only slow down the effect of ambient conditions
• Heat transfer will inevitably happen

Passive Packaging Systems

There are two types of passive systems:

1. Traditional Passive TCP systems?utilize water-filled components coupled with insulation materials to create microenvironments inside the system capable of maintaining, for example, +2°C to +8°C (chilled) or +15°C to +25°C (controlled room temperature – CRT).
2. Advanced Passive systems?utilize water or high-performance phase change materials to provide superior thermal protection, enabling tighter temperature control over a wide range of ambient conditions.

Active Packaging Systems

• Utilize various cooling/heating methods to provide thermal protection to the payload.
• Most operate compressor-based systems that are similar to a domestic fridge.
• Most of the newer systems require some ‘plug-in’ time for the system to charge prior to use, and the systems?may need to be plugged in during use or at key 'touch points'.?
• Pharmaceutical companies have been utilizing “ocean reefer ” freight containers to distribute products. Ocean reefers are occasionally used in conjunction with passive systems to ensure robust thermal protection.?

Read the full article to learn how Expeditors used temperature-controlled technology to ship a Dangerous Good from China to the United States?safely and timely .

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