Reefer Containers –
PTI checklist

Shipping with reefer containers requires a lot of attention to ensure safety for cargo in transit. All reefer boxes, therefore, must pass a thorough Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) prior to each time of stuffing.

The PTI is actually an extensive check of both the container and the machinery. This inspection ensures that the reefer machinery is running properly at correct settings and that the container is clean and undamaged.

Shippers might not care much about PTI, because that’s usually shipping companies’ job. In some cases, however, shippers own reefer containers (SOC) and need to do PTI themselves or use the service of equipment-handling contractors. In any way, it is useful for customers to have general ideas about how the container inspection is carried out before they can stuff cargo.

Specific sequence in PTI procedures for reefer containers may vary a little bit among shipping companies. Yet PTI basically include following steps, which can be kept as a checklist for reference.

Before power on

• General inspection (Ensure unit and components are free from physical damage and are not missing (Box, Contactors, Cable, Plug, Compressor, Loosen wire, etc.)
• Check Cleanliness: No extra labels, Cargo Debris/Remnants, etc.
• Check Refrigerant and Lubricant
• Inspect Partlow: Ensure chart drive is rewound and battery level is in range
• Check electric insulation value (compressor, motors, heaters)

After power on

• Ensure phase correction contractors are in function (Measure and record voltage)
• Check of serviceability of engine:
  Ensure no abnormal noises components
  Ensure fan and blower are in proper direction
  Initiate LPPP (CFII), FPT (Smart), LPP (MHI), AutoPTI (Microlink) or FPTI(MPC)
  Detect proper working unit at reaching set-point
  Calibrate sensors and Partlow element
  
• Check RV%
• Preset temperature setting to –18°C:
  Initiate and check that the unit goes into manual defrost and complete cycle
  Check cleanliness of drains
  Record oil level directly after defrost
  Upon temperature reach to –18°C and unit is running in full cool
  
• Measure compressor pressure
  
• Measure currents (Compressor, Cond. Fan motor, Evap. Motor, heater)
  Detect proper working unit at reaching set-point –18°C check Freon level
  Set temp to 0°C and run – Switch off upon reaching 0°C temp
  Upon unit reaching to 0°C, record and calibrate sensors and Partlow element

Final check

• Switch off unit on/off switch, leave power selection switch to 380/440V
  
• Ensure doors locked secure (reefer, controller box, Partlow, etc.)

It’s worth noting that above content is only the guideline and should not replace or override PTI procedures recommended by the manufacturer of a particular refer container or the procedures set up by an individual shipping company.

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