Shipping containers are an ingenious piece of engineering and play a vital part in the movement of goods across the world. In recent years the versatility of shipping containers has peaked, and they have become utilised in a range of alternative ways from houses and pools to restaurants and cafes, so what makes them so popular? Their durability. Not only can they be used for multiple purposes, they continually stand the test of time and the elements.
There are many factors as to why shipping containers are durable, and below are some details as to why they are so trusted and reliable.
The Materials Used
Shipping containers are made from Corten steel, which is a group of steels designed to resist corrosion caused by the atmosphere and is much stronger than many other types of steel. Corten steel is perfect for shipping containers as they must travel on large ships across the ocean and compete with changing air temperatures, sea spray, wet weather and dry weather, and sometimes all in a single trip. Corten steel is wind and watertight, so whether you are using a shipping container to transport goods or want to create a small home out of one, if you maintain the steel the container can have a lengthy lifespan.
Construction
To make shipping containers, Corten steel is cut to the correct size and ribbed. This design process helps strengthen the panels of the container, which are then welded together onto reinforced steel beams. Doors and floor are then installed, and the container is primed with marine-grade paint. This last step adds a final layer of protection against the elements.
Stacking Design
In addition to the materials used to create shipping containers and their overall construction, their specific box design aids in their durability. Made to be stacked at least 6 or 8 boxes high while travelling across the ocean, or in a shipping container storage yard, the containers have corner casts that lock into each other. The corner casts take most of the weight of the shipping containers and allow for the containers to be loaded and unloaded while stacked. This structural support helps preserve the roof and flooring of the containers and minimises individual deterioration.
You can learn more about the durability of shipping containers from the experts South West Containers. For any questions or to hire or buy a shipping container from our collection, reach out to our team today.