Satellite Communication for Refrigerated Containers

Satellite Communication for Refrigerated Containers: Real-Time Visibility Anywhere in the World

If your cargo travels to places as remote as Antarctica, how can you track it? When refrigerated containers carry high-value, temperature-sensitive, or hazardous goods, knowing where the container is — and how its refrigeration system is performing — can be mission-critical. But conventional communication networks are unavailable in the world’s most remote places.  

Klinge’s satellite communication systems designed for refrigerated containers provide two-way data communication, GPS tracking, and near real-time monitoring using the Iridium® and Inmarsat® satellite networks. This lets you monitor critical container conditions virtually anywhere in the world. 

What is satellite communication for refrigerated containers? 

Klinge’s satellite communication system provides a direct communications link between a refrigerated container and a web-based monitoring platform. Compact communication equipment with integrated GPS collects and transmits important operating data, allowing you to remotely monitor your container and its refrigeration system while the cargo is in transit. 

The system can provide near real-time information on temperature, equipment operation, alarms, and fuel and power status—giving greater visibility into conditions that could affect the cargo. 

Why is satellite communication important for refrigerated cargo? 

Most communication networks lack coverage where people rarely travel, making it extremely difficult to monitor cargo conditions or identify equipment problems when containers move through the world’s most remote land and sea locations.  

Satellite communication offers a viable alternative. It can provide a continuous communications link to refrigerated containers containing hazardous materials, pharmaceuticals, food products, scientific materials, and other cargo where temperature control and equipment performance are critical. 

What satellite networks does Klinge use? 

Klinge offers satellite communication systems using the Iridium and Inmarsat satellite networks. 

The Iridium network consists of 66 active satellites providing worldwide voice and data communications. Its unique satellite constellation provides coverage worldwide, including remote regions, oceans, airways, and polar areas. 

The Inmarsat network uses a fleet of satellites to provide mobile voice and data communications worldwide, connecting users on land, at sea, and in the air. 

Together, these satellite communication networks make it possible to monitor refrigerated containers in locations where more conventional systems are out of range. 

What information can Klinge's satellite system monitor? 

Klinge’s two-way satellite communication system can transmit critical operating information from the refrigerated container in near real time, including: 

• Ambient temperature 
• Cargo temperature 
• Refrigeration system operating condition 
• Alarm status 
• Fuel level 
• Remaining running hours 
• Power source 

Transmitted data is accessible through a website specifically designed for Klinge’s satellite communication system. 

Can the system track the location of a refrigerated container? 

Yes. The satellite communication equipment incorporates GPS, allowing the system to provide tracking and tracing capabilities in addition to equipment monitoring. 

This gives operators visibility into both equipment performance and location — a combination that makes it easier to identify potential problems and respond before they become more serious. 

How does satellite monitoring help protect high-value cargo? 

For high-value or irreplaceable cargo, a temperature lapse or refrigeration failure can have big consequences. Remote monitoring provides another layer of protection by giving operators access to current operating information while the cargo is in transit. 

If an alarm or abnormal operating condition occurs, operators will know before the container reaches its destination. 

Klinge’s satellite communication was invaluable during its use in Antarctica as part of the U.S. Antarctic Program. 

How was Klinge satellite communication used in Antarctica? 

Containers used to transport valuable ice cores from Antarctica for scientific study were equipped with Klinge’s satellite communication system. The ability to transmit near real-time temperature data from the South Pole was critical to the mission’s success. 

Maintaining appropriate conditions during transport was essential to preserving the samples' integrity.  

What is included in the Klinge satellite communication kit? 

The Klinge satellite communication kit includes the hardware and components needed to connect the refrigerated container and its generator to the satellite monitoring system. 

The kit consists of: 

• Transponder and buffer board with pre-attached cables for connection to the generator engine, and the left- and right-side refrigeration machine control boxes 
• Enhanced ambient temperature probe 
• Antenna with dedicated cable 
• Fuel transponder 
• Hardware, drawings and auxiliary items required to install the components 

The system is designed to integrate with the container’s refrigeration and power equipment, allowing operating data to be collected and transmitted without requiring constant physical access to the container. 

Where can satellite communication make the biggest difference? 

Satellite monitoring solves monitoring challenges when refrigerated containers moving temperature-sensitive materials travel through remote or communication-limited environments.  

Potential applications include: 

• Ocean transportation 
• Remote and polar operations 
• Hazardous goods transportation 
• Pharmaceutical and life-science shipments 
• Food and other temperature-sensitive products 
• Scientific materials and samples 
• Other high-value cargo requiring continuous monitoring 

Why choose Klinge satellite communication? 

Klinge’s satellite communication system extends visibility beyond the terminal and throughout the journey. By combining satellite connectivity, GPS tracking, and near-real-time monitoring of temperature, refrigeration, alarms, fuel, and power, Klinge gives operators information they can use to help protect cargo and manage refrigerated equipment wherever the container travels.

Want to learn more about satellite communication? Connect with a Klinge team member.