THERMOCON / FROZEN SHIPPING
Coolant packs as an alternative to dry ice
PCM −21 coolant packs offer an alternative to dry ice for suitable frozen shipments. Choose Gel Pack Basic, Foam Brick −21 or a rigid PCM pack, then match the size and packout to your insulated shipper and product temperature requirements.
SELECT THE COMPLETE PACKOUT
When PCM −21 can replace dry ice
Dry ice has a temperature of approximately −78.5 °C and is too cold for some products that must remain above a minimum temperature. For suitable applications in the −15 to −25 °C range, PCM −21 can offer controlled frozen shipping without dry ice.
Dry ice can cause cold burns. As it sublimates, it releases carbon dioxide, creating risks of oxygen displacement and pressure buildup in closed containers. Check the carrier’s requirements for the proposed shipment. The PCM −21 pack itself is not classified as hazardous material and does not sublimate during use; the goods being shipped still require their own assessment.
Coolant packs can be stored and prepared in a freezer capable of −30 °C, following the instructions for the selected packout. This removes the need for just-in-time dry ice deliveries. Reuse, where appropriate for the pack, can reduce recurring costs.
Assess the application: PCM −21 is not a universal replacement for dry ice. Product temperature, allowable contact with coolant packs, shipping duration, insulation and ambient conditions determine suitability.
PACK FORMAT / STANDARD SIZES
Gel Pack Basic
Our most affordable coolant pack uses simple PE film and is best suited to single-use applications. It is available with a melting point of −21 °C or 0 °C.
Suitable for direct food contact, with simple and complete recycling. Custom sizes and film printing are available. The −21 °C coolant pack is a safe alternative to dry ice and does not require dangerous goods labeling.
Weight · Dimensions
16 oz (0.45 kg)
4.5 × 8 in
(114.3 × 203.2 mm)
16 oz (0.45 kg)
6 × 8 in
(152.4 × 203.2 mm)
24 oz (0.68 kg)
6 × 8 in
(152.4 × 203.2 mm)
48 oz (1.36 kg)
7 × 11 in
(177.8 × 279.4 mm)
PACK FORMAT / STANDARD SIZES
Foam Brick −21
Foam Brick −21 is a non-toxic coolant pack approved for food transport. It is a safe alternative to dry ice, and the pack itself does not require dangerous goods labeling.
Foam Bricks can be stored in a freezer at −30 °C and used repeatedly. Select the format to suit your insulated shipper and packout.
Weight · Dimensions
17 oz (0.48 kg)
4.5 × 4 × 1.5 in
(114.3 × 102 × 38 mm)
28 oz (0.79 kg)
7.25 × 4 × 1.5 in
(184 × 102 × 38 mm)
34 oz (0.96 kg)
9 × 4 × 1.5 in
(229 × 102 × 38 mm)
82 oz (2.32 kg)
11.25 × 9.25 × 1.25 in
(286 × 235 × 32 mm)
PACK FORMAT / STANDARD SIZES
PCM −21
This rigid HDPE coolant pack contains phase change material for frozen shipping in the −15 to −25 °C range. It maintains the intended product temperature over an extended period as part of a suitable packout.
The pack is not classified as hazardous material. It is one of our standard coolant packs and can be used in multiple THERMOCON systems, helping reduce storage and purchasing costs.
Weight · Dimensions
18 oz (0.51 kg)
6 × 7 in
(152 × 178 mm)
PRE-QUALIFIED SHIPPING SYSTEMS
Medi Line: insulation, VIPs and PCM
High performance with straightforward handling: an HDPE outer container, vacuum insulated panels (VIPs) and PCM.
Payload volumes: 6 and 18 liters
Shipping duration: 1 to 4 days
COMPLETE PACKOUTS
Pre-qualified systems for frozen shipping
THERMOCON pre-qualified systems for −15 to −25 °C combine the insulated shipper, frozen coolant packs, outer carton and thermal documentation. Illustrated step-by-step assembly instructions help minimize packing errors.
If your shipment requires dry ice, our range of approximately 100 EPS insulated shippers also provides options for dry ice transport.
COOLANT PACK + INSULATED SHIPPER
Match the packout to your shipment
Choose an insulated shipper with enough room for the goods and coolant packs. Compare the standard formats or contact our team about your shipping requirements.
PRACTICAL QUESTIONS
Questions about alternatives to dry ice
Can PCM −21 replace dry ice in every shipment?
No. It is an option for suitable frozen shipments, including packouts for −15 to −25 °C. Assess the required temperature, shipping duration and complete packaging configuration.
How are the coolant packs prepared?
Use a freezer capable of −30 °C and follow the instructions for the selected coolant pack and packout. Gel packs should be frozen flat in the shape needed for packing.
Can the coolant packs be reused?
Foam Brick −21 and rigid PCM packs can be reused when their condition and the application permit it. Gel Pack Basic is intended for single-use applications.
Does the coolant determine the classification of the whole shipment?
No. The statement that a PCM coolant pack is not classified as hazardous material applies to the pack itself. Check the goods being shipped and the carrier’s requirements separately.
How should the packs be disposed of?
Follow the instructions for the supplied product and local waste requirements. Disposal depends on the filling, film or rigid shell and the available collection routes.
Planning a frozen shipment?
Tell us your product temperature, shipping duration, insulated shipper and required quantity. Our team can help you select a suitable coolant pack and packout.