Technical Guidance
Parameters definition for our containers
There is a set of parameters, characteristics and configurations used to specify and describe the different solutions so they can be identifiable and comparable.
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Dimensions of the load unit
In Europe, there are two standard container or pallet box dimensions, which correspond to 1200x1000 mm and 1200x800 mm, the first being mostly used in distributing bulk goods. Generally, these external sizes correspond to the standard load units for most applications.
Specifically, in the case of containers or pallet boxes, the dimension that is usually critical for any application is height. This dimension determines the internal volume of the container, the total amount of product to transport, and the number of containers that can be moved in each journey.
At Naeco Packaging we have the following sizes of rigid containers:
- 500 mm: These containers are used for bulk products for which weight is a critical element. They are usually used in applications for which is not possible to have much bulk product height because it would damage the bottom products.
- 580 mm: Medium containers are the most widely used option on the market, as the volume-weight ratio transported is optimal. Furthermore, the height makes it easier to empty the transported product manually.
- 630 mm: These containers are used for the same applications as those of 580 mm, but given the slight optimization of size, they allow for up to 11% more volume to be carried on each journey, without affecting the number of containers transported by lorry.
- 780 mm: The tallest containers are ideal for applications that require the movement of the maximum volume for each container manoeuvre, and the weight of the goods does not affect the transported product.
Note: The sizes describing the containers are external. To find out the interior dimensions of the load compartment, see the technical specification.
With regards to our foldable containers, note the difference between the open height and the folded height.
- Open height: This is the external height of the containers when opened and therefore during usage.
- Folded height: This is the external height of the container once folded down to optimise space once it is empty.
Therefore, it is important to know the internal measurements of the containers or pallet boxes, as just like height, these dimensions will determine the internal volume of the container.
Loads
During the design and development of a new product, at Naeco Research we create load simulations and calculations to ensure the safety of the goods being transported, as well as their handling in the different environments and scenarios. Next, a series of product trials are carried out, establishing the loads that the product will bear during its use. Finally, thanks to our trial area, we use a quality system on the final product, which helps us ensure that all our products comply with the specifications set.
Our plastic container or pallet box load capacity is often fundamentally established by the height of the container and the type of load. Depending on its useful height, it has a specific load volume, which depending on the bulk product transported, will condition the load to be transported.
Our plastic container load capacity is described using the different load types, described below:
- Static load: This is a container that is loaded statically, when positioned on a completely flat and horizontal surface. Generally, this is the highest load value of a container. This gives us an idea about the container’s resistance to compression. This data establishes the maximum load capacity for a tower of containers.
- Dynamic load: Dynamic load is that borne by a container when handled conventionally. In general, this load is more restrictive than the static load.
Container weight
The weight of a plastic container or pallet box is one of the product’s most critical elements, as it conditions its price and at the same time, is determined by its characteristics, from its load capacity to its resistance to impacts. Generally, the taller the container, and therefore the larger load volume, the heavier it will be due to the need for a larger amount of material.
However, it is important to consider the optimisation of the different designs available on the market, as this rule is not complied with between similar products with a very slight weight difference. At Naeco Packaging, thanks to the most sophisticated design programmes and our broad knowledge, we create optimised products with the least amount of material possible that match or exceed other products with a slightly heavier weight.
Characteristics
Among the different versions of the market, there are a set of features that set some products apart from others:
- Hinged windows: In the case of foldable containers, there are models with hinged windows to facilitate the emptying of the container. Unlike foldable sides, these windows usually fold outwards, away from the containers, leaving a space to access the product inside.
- Large volume: Our containers have been developed to maximise the internal load compartment space. This is achieved thanks to the special design of the walls, allowing for an improved load volume of our containers.
- Side and back versions: We have different configurations in the perforated sides or base on our containers. This way, the base can be closed and the sides open, or any other possible combination. Thanks to this feature, the container adapts to the product requirements and allows for optimum transport and storage for each application.
- Reinforced blocks: At Naeco we are extremely aware of the durability of our products, which is why our containers have an incorporated reinforced block system, to improve resistance to blows to this area, which are the most critical.
Skates
Our catalogue includes different types of container depending on the number of skates on the base. According to their arrangement, containers can have more or fewer features, which must be duly studied to select the optimum containers for a specific use.
- 4 blocks: These containers have 4 supporting blocks, one on each corner of the container, constituting the most frequent option for stackable rigid containers. They are also the cheapest option. However, they cannot be handled on roller tracks.
- 2 skates: 2-Skate containers have full-length skates on the longest sides, with 3 connected blocks on the corners and the centre of the container base. Thanks to the attached skates, these containers have a continuous support surface on the ground, making them suitable for use on roller tracks, but only in the direction of the skates. Skates are also used to facilitate container turning and emptying operations with handling equipment.
- 3 skates: These containers have the same advantages as the 2-skate models, and have an additional central skate, providing greater ground support surface, improving transportation along roller tracks. This skate lay out is recommended for handling and turning applications with large load requirements.
Usually, the use of skates instead of blocks on containers, slightly increases the total external height of the container.
Accessories
There are occasionally applications that require a series of additional elements:
- Wheels: Our containers can be fitted with wheels for applications that require a container that can be moved independently.
- Lids: We have lids that adapt to our containers for applications that require the containers compartment to be closed.
- Reinforcements: Some models have the option of assembling reinforcements to improve - among other aspects - resistance to blows or bending, depending on the container type.
- Taps: Taps can be incorporated to our closed, rigid containers, making it easier to empty them of any liquids or fluids that may remain inside after each use, depending on the application.