Every receptacle is designed and CSA certified to handle the load that the NEMA configuration allows for. Meaning each receptacle in a common power bar can handle the full load of the power bar(even though many are protected by internal overcurrent devices).
Problem for reefers is that the salt environment causes corrosion on our plugs making resistance in the connections. This resistance(with current running through it) creates heat, more heat = more resistance = more heat continuing till something melts. Breakers usually don't trip because current draw is not high enough. Most 15A breakers will hold 20A for a while, old FPE stablock breakers will hold a dead short for waaayyy to long.
Cheap plastic power bars usually melt and let go of their connection before fire. I would be afraid that a metal power bar(being stronger) would just hold on longer and create more heat. Better solution is to clean your connections and use an anti-oxidising compound if it's really bad.
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