Are Shipping Containers EMP-Proof?

Are Shipping Containers EMP-Proof?

Key Takeaways

• EMP protection is essential for safeguarding electronic devices from sudden bursts of electromagnetic energy.
• Shipping containers alone are not fully EMP-proof but can be modified to be so.
• A Faraday cage is a structure that blocks electromagnetic fields and can be created using a shipping container.
• Modifications such as grounding, sealing gaps, and insulation are necessary to make a shipping container more EMP-resistant.
• Conexwest is your one-stop shop for shipping container fabrication.

What is an EMP-Proof Container?

An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) is a short burst of electromagnetic energy that can be natural or man-made. It can manifest as an electromagnetic field, an electric field, a magnetic field, or a conducted electric current. EMPs can disrupt communication and damage electronic equipment.

Being EMP-proof means the container is reinforced to act as a Faraday cage, shielding its contents from the harmful effects of an EMP.

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How To Make A Shipping Container EMP-Proof

While standard shipping containers aren't inherently EMP-proof, they can be modified to function as Faraday cages that block electromagnetic fields. So how can you transform your shipping container? Here’s some steps to follow:

1. Seal All Openings: Seal all seams and gaps, especially around the door, using metallic tape. The door also needs to have a tight seal to conduct energy as easily as possible.
2. Ground the Container: Attach lightning rods to the corners of the container and connect them properly to direct electricity into the ground, which protects the electrical equipment inside.
3. Insulate the Interior: Line the inside of the container with a non-conductive material (such as cardboard, cloth, wood, or spray foam), or place your items in plastic containers and seal them. You’ll want to maintain a clear separation between items inside and the container shell. Insulation can also help make your container heat resistant.
   
   
   Spray foam is one of the most common types of insulation for a shipping container.
    
4. Reinforce the Structure: Weld strong steel bars along the roof and periphery of the container. Alternatively, you can build a steel cage in the space surrounding the container and fill it with stones to create a barrier between the soil and the container.
5. Protect Electrical Systems: Install surge protectors and grounding systems to divert excess electrical energy away from sensitive equipment.
6. Add Ventilation and Climate Control: This can protect sensitive electronics and equipment from temperature and humidity fluctuations.
7. Secure and Pad Items: Use padding, straps, and securing mechanisms to prevent movement and damage to items during transit or storage.
8. Test the Shielding: Test the effectiveness of the Faraday cage by placing a cell phone inside the sealed container and calling it from the outside. If the phone rings, the container may not be fully EMP-proof. You can also test with AM/FM and UHF/VHF radios.

Choose Conexwest For Your Shipping Container Needs

Conexwest is your complete shipping container solution.

Conexwest is a leading provider of new and used shipping containers in the US. Our containers come in a variety of sizes, and we can customize it to your needs—be it insulation, ventilation, or HVAC.

If you’re on the lookout for a shipping container, here's why you should choose us:

1. Extensive Inventory: Our inventory has containers in sizes ranging from 10 ft to 45 ft in length. We also have specialized containers like mobile offices, flat racks, and open tops.
2. Customization Expertise: Need modifications? We're experts at customizing containers to your exact specifications. Be it a simple modification like adding a door or a complex one like turning your container into a Faraday cage—we can do it all.
3. Quality Assurance: We're committed to providing high-quality containers. Our containers undergo thorough inspections before they reach you.
4. Exceptional Service: From your initial inquiry to final delivery, we're dedicated to providing you with a stress-free experience. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What materials enhance EMP protection in shipping containers?

Non-conductive materials like cardboard and wood can be used for internal structures to prevent electromagnetic currents from taking unintended paths.

Can any shipping container be made EMP-proof?

Yes, with the right modifications, any shipping container can be made EMP-proof. However, it requires careful planning and execution. You’ll need to seal all gaps, ground the container properly, and make sure it’s well insulated.

How does an EMP affect modern electronics stored in containers?

An EMP can cause severe damage to electronics by inducing powerful electric currents that overload circuits. This can lead to permanent damage or complete failure of electronic devices. Without proper protection, even a brief exposure to an EMP can render sensitive equipment useless.

What is the delivery range for Conexwest containers? 

We deliver containers nationwide—just provide your address when purchasing or renting a container and we'll handle the rest.

What are the costs associated with making a container EMP-proof?

At Conexwest, you can tell us your requirements and we’ll give you an accurate quote for the shipping container you need. The costs of making a shipping container EMP-proof can vary widely depending on the modifications required. With us, you can rest easy knowing that we’ll use the best materials and techniques so that your container is safe and exactly how you want it.