Today, RedGuard makes blast-resistant buildings from scratch, but in 1998 the company first began leasing shipping containers to construction sites and oil and gas refineries, used mostly as storage for tools and equipment.
In 2005, things changed when a catastrophic explosion at a refinery site killed 15 people. It led engineers investigating the aftermath of the explosion to ponder whether shipping containers, which were still standing with little to no damage after the explosion, could be used as the basis for blast-resistant buildings.
RedGuard engineers and design staff went to work to convert shipping containers into blast-resistant buildings. Once they had a design that satisfied safety goals on paper, they field-tested it, setting off a powerful blast to ensure the buildings were safe. They have continued blast-testing with subsequent blast-resistant building designs, which, to be clear, no longer start out as shipping containers.
A shipping container can be converted into a blast-resistant modular building, but that begs the question: is this still the best option? Probably not. As a whole, it is more efficient to build a blast-resistant building from scratch.
To make a shipping container blast-resistant, first, the frame is reinforced. The best blast resistance requires tightly spaced vertical and horizontal stiffeners, similar to a human rib cage. This allows compression during a blast, the same way the ribs protect a body's internal organs. In RedGuard's blast-resistant buildings, this compression is called "flex" or "dynamic load transfer," and it's essential in providing a safe environment. Shipping containers have far fewer beams in their frame, which require quite a bit of reinforcement.
Next, consider the container walls and how they're built. A typical shipping container has steel walls 0.075 inches thick. A blast-resistant building should have thick steel walls, and depending on the building's response level, the walls may be steel sheet or corrugated. A shipping container would likely need to be reinforced to gain that strength.
A blast-resistant building is designed as a “single degree of freedom” system, meaning the entire building is only as strong as each component. What about doors and windows? Shipping containers aren’t built with standard doors or with windows. They have doors that swing open on either end to make them easier to load and unload. Those doors need to be fixed in place and reinforced so that they don’t open during a blast. Strong, heavy blast-resistant doors would be added. Every cut made into the shipping container would compromise its stability. A blast engineer would need to be involved to ensure blast protection.
To bring the best products to market for customers, in 2009-2010 RedGuard transitioned from container-based units to purpose-built, blast-resistant buildings. They went through several iterations of container-based designs before their first scratch-built designs. RedGuard kept refining the process until it created its GEN II units, but it didn't stop there. In its GEN III buildings, which it refined after its most recent blast test, safety remained the No. 1 factor in the design.
While the original shipping container-based designs are still more than adequate for blast protection, switching to scratch-built units made it easier for the company to meet customers' needs. While the market and industry have grown, designs have become more sophisticated. RedGuard has increased energy efficiency standards and upgraded interior finishes, safety features, HVAC systems, insulation options and more.
Additionally, and probably more importantly, the company enhanced its structural offerings. A commitment to testing, while looking for ways to think outside the box -no pun intended - has allowed structural designs to get even better.
The fact is, none of this makes units that started out as shipping containers obsolete. RedGuard's initial blast test proved that, but in today's market, it just isn't the best choice. If one needs a blast-resistant structure, RedGuard has the largest fleet of leasable blast-resistant modular buildings on the market.
For more information about blast-resistant buildings, visit RedGuard online or call (855) 733-4827.
FAQs
A typical shipping container likely has steel walls 0.075” thick. A blast-resistant building should have thick steel walls; depending on the building's response level, the walls may be steel sheet or corrugated. A shipping container would likely need to be reinforced to gain this level of strength.
Are shipping containers blast proof? ›
Probably not. As a whole, it is more efficient to build a blast-resistant building from scratch. To make a shipping container blast-resistant, first, the frame is reinforced. The best blast resistance requires tightly spaced vertical and horizontal stiffeners, similar to a human rib cage.
Can you convert a shipping container? ›
Versatility: Shipping containers can be converted into virtually any type of space, from offices to living spaces to retail shops and more. Durability: Shipping containers are built to withstand harsh conditions, making them a great choice for a wide range of applications.
How to make a shipping container tornado proof? ›
One option is to place sturdy anchors in concrete and use a steel cable to cinch the shipping container down. That will keep the storm shelter stable and able to endure high wind speeds.
Can a tornado pick up a storage container? ›
In essence, an anchored shipping container can withstand up to 180mph without budging. Moving a shipping container would take a Category 5 hurricane or F3+ tornado.
Are container homes bulletproof? ›
Hardened shipping containers are best suited for use in situations where the risk of gunfire is relatively low, such as for storage or as temporary shelters. So, to answer the question “are shipping containers bulletproof?” the answer is no, not inherently.
Can a shipping container be used as a fallout shelter? ›
If you are looking for a reliable and sturdy underground bunker, shipping containers are great. With their strength, durability, and watertight design, you can be sure your bunker will be well-protected no matter the weather.
Do you need planning permission to convert a shipping container? ›
Yes – in the majority of cases, shipping container planning permission won't be required. But there are many circ*mstances in which it will be – and before you go ahead with the project, you'll need to apply to your local authority in the same way you would with a traditional building.
Can I turn a shipping container into a shed? ›
While traditional sheds offer some level of customisation, shipping containers can be extensively modified with relative ease. Adding insulation, windows, doors, and internal shelving or partitions can transform a basic container into a highly functional storage space, or even a comfortable garden room.
How much does it cost to convert a shipping container? ›
Generally, materials and labor costs will run $10,000 to $50,000, but expenses can go as high as $100,000 or more for larger builds. The basic costs include the containers' purchase price and the materials needed for modifications.
While marine-grade CORTEN steel, or weathering steel, they're made from are fire-resistant materials, the containers themselves are not entirely fireproof. High temperatures sustained over a prolonged period can warp or melt the steel, and the wooden floors found in standard containers can catch fire.
What is the best foundation for a container home? ›
Pier foundations are the most popular choice for shipping container homes for numerous reasons. They are relatively inexpensive, and quick to construct, a pier foundation is comprised of concrete blocks.
What is the cheapest storm shelter option? ›
The most affordable and weather-resistant tornado shelter material is concrete, but it's brittle and can crumble in the face of extreme weather. Though costlier, steel is a lightweight and durable option best for protecting you from flying debris.
How much wind can a shipping container withstand? ›
Shipping Containers & Rated Wind Loads
When empty, a 40' or 45' steel ISO high cube container can resist up to 130 mph winds! A standard height empty 40' steel ISO container can resist even more – 140 mph. A smaller empty 20' standard steel ISO container can even top that at 150 mph winds.
How to anchor a shipping container for storm shelter? ›
One of the most popular ways is to use a steel plate to attach the container to a foundation concrete pad. Involves pressing a steel plate with welded anchors underneath into the wet concrete. There should be one concrete plate at each corner of the container.
Are shipping container homes safe in tornadoes? ›
To answer your question, yes, shipping containers can be converted into hurricane and tornado-resistant homes.
Will a shipping container survive a fire? ›
But rest assured, due to their fire resistance, your belongings are not just stored; they are well-protected. A controlled test by the National Fire Protection Association revealed that a shipping container could endure a whopping 1,700 degrees Fahrenheit for over half an hour without being breached!
Are shipping containers indestructible? ›
Are Shipping Containers Indestructible? Containers are almost indestructible as they are made of robust and heavy-duty metal and steel. They have corrugated walls on both the top and bottom, welded to the rails and end frames.
Do shipping containers ever fall off ships? ›
According to a World Shipping Council (WSC) report, up to 1,382 shipping containers are lost at sea each year. The figure is based on three year averages calculated over a 12-year period – which represents 80% of the global vessel container capacity.
How safe are shipping containers? ›
Shipping containers are widely regarded as safe and practical choices for living spaces, primarily due to their superior build quality and structural integrity. Their robust construction not only ensures durability and security, but also makes them highly customisable.
