Shipping Containers: The Backbone Of Modern Trade in Dubai

Anyone business that is using shipping containers in UAE for storage and transport of goods knows how important these steel boxes are. The very first container was made and patented in 1956 by Malcolm McClean. Ever since they have had a remarkable impact on changing the supply chains and the fundamental aspects of imports and exports.

What are the common aspects of these containers that are driving billions and trillions of dollars of trade worldwide?

Shipping containers are available in sizes of 20ft, 30ft, and 40ft.
They are also customized with refrigeration units to carry frozen goods.
Steel is the primary raw material used to make containers.
All containers have hinged double doors with a closed top.
The four steel walls are corrugated and are fixed to a sturdy frame.

The Manufacturing Process

Steel is the raw material used for all shipping containers. It is the prime choice because it is highly durable, malleable, doesn’t give in to rust, and easy to maintain. It is also much lighter than iron. Steel undergoes various processes to become a fully functional shipping container. Aluminium and fibre-reinforced polymers are the other options.

Here’s a brief insight into how containers are manufactured.

Step 1: Cutting The Steel

The manufacturing process is initiated by unrolling giant rolls of steel. Technically advanced machinery using laser technology helps to cut the roll into several pre-measured sheets with impeccable precision. A metal stamping process is used to get the desired corrugated effect on the sheets.

Step 2: The Cleaning Process
After the initial process, the steel sheet attains shape and size. But it has to be prepared for the next stages of manufacturing. The sheets are cleaned thoroughly using sandblasting and priming. These processes effectively get rid of all the dirt and grime sticking to the surface of the metal sheets.

Step 3: Other components

While the sheets are under production, other important components that make the entire container will be simultaneously manufactured. They include the wall panels, roof panels, floor braces, square tubing, corner frames and posts, and floor frames.

Step 4: Assembling of all parts
Construction begins with the welding of the wall panels, floor braces, roof panels, etc. The square tubing is then welded to the top of the wall and the floor panels are assembled to form the floor frame.

Once this is done, the door assembly is welded onto the floor frame. It is then followed by the corner assembly, corner posts, and wall panels. The assembling process uses a Jig to ensure straight and precise fitting.

Step 5: Fixing the door panel

After the door frame is fitted, all the joints are welded into place. The door bar is fitted onto this sturdy structure and the doors are installed onto the floor frame. Finally, the wall and roof panels are welded to form the complete structure of the container.

Also Read: What Are The Hazardous Goods?

The Finishing Process

The container is now just a huge rectangle box. It has to undergo a few more procedures before it can be formally rolled out as a shipping container.

Automated painting gives a thorough coat of primer and marine-grade paint to the interior and exterior of the box.
After it dries out, the box is subjected to quality checking for a thorough inspection to rule out manufacturing defects.
The flooring process is then done by installing the floorboards. Floorboards are varnished and fixed with glue and pre-drilled screws.
Finally, the doors are installed with handles and security locks.
Rubber seals are installed to make them completely watertight and seaworthy.
A final inspection is done to check for holes and leaks.

Container Modification in UAE

Are you looking to buy a brand new shipping container or have one modified to suit your business needs? For all your requirements, Gulf International is your best option in Dubai. Gulf International operates with a team of experts who will provide you with all the expertise you need.

We are the best company for container modification in UAE and for all other shipping container enquiries. Contact us today!