Outsourced logistics services provided by specialized companies, including warehousing, transport, and supply chain management. Company does not own the goods but provides logistics services on behalf of client.
4PL (Fourth-Party Logistics)
Strategic logistics partner that manages entire supply chain, including coordination of multiple 3PL providers. Acts as single point of contact for complex, multi-provider logistics operations.
Absolute Pressure
The total pressure exerted by a gas or fluid, measured relative to a perfect vacuum (zero pressure). Equals atmospheric pressure plus gauge pressure.
African Union Cold Chain Initiative
Definition: Continental cold chain development initiative under the African Union’s agricultural transformation agenda. Aims to reduce post-harvest losses and improve food security through cold chain infrastructure development across Africa. Why It Matters: Continental cold chain development creates opportunities for South African cold chain expertise, equipment, and services across Africa. AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) implementation will increase intra-African trade…
Air Curtain
High-velocity air stream across a doorway or opening that creates an invisible barrier, reducing warm air infiltration into cold spaces during door openings.
Altitude Derate Factor
The reduction in refrigeration system capacity due to lower atmospheric pressure at high altitudes. Compressor-based refrigeration systems lose approximately 3% capacity for every 300m of elevation above sea level.
Ambient Temperature
The surrounding air temperature of the environment. In cold chain, typically refers to outside temperature affecting refrigeration system performance.
ATMP Cold Chain (Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products)
Definition: Specialized cold chain requirements for Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products including gene therapies, cell therapies, and tissue-engineered products. These products often require cryogenic temperatures and have unique handling requirements. Why It Matters: ATMPs represent the frontier of pharmaceutical development. South Africa’s growing biotech sector and clinical trial activity creates demand for ATMP cold chain capabilities. Highly specialized, high-value logistics opportunity.…
Bacterial Growth Curve
Graph showing bacterial population growth over time under favorable conditions. Four phases: lag, log (exponential growth), stationary, death.
Battery-Powered Refrigeration
Transport refrigeration units powered by rechargeable batteries instead of diesel engines or direct vehicle electrical systems.