Prevention of Moisture Damage
Moisture can adversely affect your goods, and the timing, location and severity of moisture damage are difficult to predict. There are many causes of this phenomenon, but thanks to Absortech's years of experience, research and testing, we can offer effective solutions. Here are the key areas where the right knowledge can prevent moisture damage.
Why is moisture a problem?
Moisture can enter transportation and storage spaces in many ways. One of the most common sources is air, which naturally contains water vapor. In the case of enclosed spaces, such as shipping containers, temperature changes cause moisture to condense on surfaces, leading to damage known as “container rain.” This condensed water can drip onto products, causing:
-
Corrosion of metal components.
-
Mildew and fungi on organic materials.
-
Destruction of cardboard packaging.
-
Loss of aesthetic value of goods.
Moisture problems can occur at any stage of the supply chain - from production to transportation to storage.
How to prevent moisture damage?
A key element in preventing damage is understanding how moisture works and what tools can effectively reduce its impact. Here are some basic steps:
1. Control of the environment in containers
-
Technical condition of the container: Make sure the container is in good working condition, with no damage to the doors, walls or roof. Any leaks could be a source of additional moisture.
-
Sealing the ventilation: When transporting dry cargo, consider temporarily sealing the vents.
2. Reduction of own moisture of goods
-
Drying before loading: Both the container and the goods should be dry before loading. The container floor, dunnage or pallets are common sources of excess moisture.
-
Hygroscopic properties of materials: Organic or moisture-sensitive products require additional protection in the form of barrier packaging.
3. Use of desiccants
-
Dehumidification bags: Products such as bags with moisture-absorbing granules can be placed inside the container to minimize moisture levels in the air.
-
Advanced dehumidification systems: Technology solutions, such as Absortech systems, track moisture levels and provide active protection during transport.
4. Monitoring of transport conditions
-
Data loggers: Devices such as AbsorTrack™ loggers allow for ongoing monitoring of temperature, humidity, dew point or shock during transportation. This data helps identify risks and take appropriate action.
Benefits of moisture prevention
Preventing moisture damage is not only a matter of product protection, but also of optimizing logistics processes and building customer confidence. Effective moisture management can:
-
Reduce financial losses.
-
Reduce the number of complaints.
-
Improve the quality of goods delivered.
-
Strengthen the company's image as a reliable supplier.
Moisture is a challenge that requires a comprehensive approach. By investing in the right tools, procedures and staff education, moisture damage can be effectively prevented. Remember that knowledge and prevention are the best tools in the fight against moisture, protecting our goods and our company's reputation.
