Intermodal Containers
Intermodal Containers - Intermodal containers are a method of transporting cargo in bulk, either inland or overseas. They are also called freight or shipping containers. These units need to be built to ISO (the International Organisation for Standardisation) which set the standards for transporting overseas or across national borders.
Intermodal Containers
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| Intermodal Containers |
These standards were originally drafted by the United States defence department for use by the military. The ISO adapted these articles for international use in the late 1960s and early 70s and this has led to the development of shipping containers that can be used all around the world. Being able to use a standard unit when shipping cargo is obviously very important in today's global market with freight being transported all around the world. As an example, the 48ft and 53ft container sizes are the standard size for shipping cargo across oceans. This standard was set by the International Organisation for Standardisation in November 2007.
Intermodal containers come in various types and sizes. Extra-sized versions are known a high-cube unit. Typical examples are the 20 ft dry van, the 40ft dry van and the high-cube 40 ft dry van unit. There is also the 45 ft dry van as well as specialised refrigerated varieties.
Intermodal containers are also built to carry specialised loads. Examples of these include flatrack and platform, tank, bulk and autorack containers. There are also specialised units for the carrying of products such as gas cylinders, generators, water purification systems and lift accessories.
Intermodal containers can be transported either by ship, by train or by road. The ISO has ensured standardised freight that be switched between the various modes of transport, hence the development of large container ports. The main advantage of having a common standard is that freight can also be switched between the various modes of transport without having to be unpacked, as it can be lifted by cranes specially built for the task.
When being transported by rail, the various networks around the world pose some problems for modern freight traffic. In the UK some parts of the network do not allow for the carriage of high-cube containers whilst most rail links on the continent of Europe allow only single stacked units to be carried. But India, and parts of the Chinese rail network, can carry the double stacked variety.
When intermodal containers are being transported, it is vitally important they well secured. Traditionally steel straps and wood blocks have been used to secure the loads. More recently polyester and other synthetic strapping have been used, including Dunnage air bags.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Craig_Ellyard/65825
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