DGM offers dry ice packing for shipments that require below freezing temperatures for the duration of their transit. We are able to assist in re-icing delayed shipments at area airports, and are particularly experienced with Enviro-tainers. In addition, we are able to change out batteries used for fan-forced circulation systems.

DGM New York and DGM Pennsylvania are capable of re-icing shipments at freight forwarder, shippers and area airports as well as at our facilities.

About Dry Ice

Dry ice, also known as solid carbon dioxide (CO2), is a unique and versatile material widely used for cooling during transportation. It is formed by compressing and cooling gaseous carbon dioxide until it solidifies at a temperature of -78.5 degrees Celsius (-109.3 degrees Fahrenheit). Its extreme cold temperature makes it an essential for keeping cargo frozen during transportation.

Properties and Characteristics of Dry Ice:

  1. Temperature: As mentioned earlier, dry ice is exceptionally cold, making it an ideal cooling agent for perishable goods.
  2. Sublimation: Unlike regular ice that melts into a liquid, dry ice sublimates directly from its solid state to a gas. This means it does not leave behind any liquid residue, eliminating the risk of goods becoming wet during transportation.
  3. Non-toxic and Odorless: Dry ice is safe to use in various applications and does not leave behind any harmful residues or odors. However, it creates carbon dioxide gas and must be well ventilated.
  4. Low Cost and Availability: Carbon dioxide, from which dry ice is derived, is widely available, making it a cost-effective cooling solution.
 

Dry Ice in Logistics and Transportation

In terms of dangerous goods, dry ice is classified as UN1845, with two different proper shipping names depending upon other factors. These proper shipping names are “Dry Ice” or “Carbon Dioxide, Solid”. Both entries fall under a class 9, miscellaneous hazard.

In the logistics and transportation industry, dry ice finds extensive application in the following areas:

 
  1. Chemicals and Adhesives: Certain types of adhesives and resins used in industries like manufacturing, construction, aerospace and automotive applications can be sensitive to heat. Transporting them with dry ice ensures that they do not cure prematurely or undergo undesirable chemical reactions due to temperature changes.
  2. Biomedical Shipments: Laboratories, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies often use dry ice to ship samples, vaccines, tissues, and other biological materials. Dry ice ensures that these sensitive materials remain viable during transit.
  3. Food Industry: When shipping frozen foods, ice cream, seafood, or other temperature-sensitive food items, dry ice is employed to maintain the low temperatures and prevent spoilage.
  4. Biologics: Biologics are pharmaceutical products derived from living organisms, such as monoclonal antibodies, cell therapies, and gene therapies. These products are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and may require ultra-cold storage and shipping conditions, which can be achieved with the use of dry ice.
 

Types of Packaging

Proper packaging is crucial when handling and transporting dry ice to ensure safety and prevent potential hazards caused by sublimation (the process of solid carbon dioxide directly changing into gas). DGM is able to select the appropriate amount of dry ice as well.

Since dry ice sublimates into carbon dioxide gas, containers that are airtight or not designed for proper ventilation can lead to a buildup of pressure, causing the container to rupture. Here are some types of packaging commonly used for dry ice shipments, along with considerations for ventilation and pressure release:

  1. Insulated Coolers and Styrofoam Boxes: Insulated coolers and styrofoam boxes are commonly used for short-distance shipments or when a limited amount of dry ice is required. These containers offer basic thermal insulation, helping to maintain the low temperature of dry ice. However, it is crucial to ensure that the containers have some ventilation holes or loose-fitting lids to allow the release of carbon dioxide gas.
  2. Dry Ice Containers with Pressure Relief Vents: For longer shipments or when larger quantities of dry ice are involved, specialized dry ice containers with pressure relief vents are used. These containers are designed to safely manage the sublimation process by allowing excess gas to escape while maintaining the proper temperature. The pressure relief vents prevent the buildup of pressure inside the container, reducing the risk of explosion or rupture.
  3. Dry Ice Pellets and Shippers: Dry ice pellets are often packaged in specialized containers known as dry ice shippers. These shippers have multiple layers of insulation to minimize sublimation and maintain the low temperature. Additionally, they come with pressure relief vents to ensure safe transport.
  4. Ventilated Plastic Bags or Containers: When using dry ice for cooling in smaller packages or when integrated into the packaging of temperature-sensitive products, ventilated plastic bags or containers can be employed. These containers have small holes or perforations that allow the release of carbon dioxide gas while preventing airtight sealing.
  5. Cryogenic Dewars or Containers: In industrial or research settings, cryogenic dewars or containers may be used to store and transport large quantities of dry ice. These containers are designed to handle extremely low temperatures and may have pressure relief valves to manage any potential pressure buildup.

By using appropriate packaging with proper ventilation, the risks associated with dry ice sublimation can be effectively managed, ensuring safe transportation and effective cooling for various applications.

Dry ice has become an indispensable tool in maintaining temperature-sensitive goods during transportation. Its unique properties make it an efficient and reliable cooling agent, benefiting a wide range of industries that rely on preserving the quality of their products throughout the supply chain.