Refrigerated trucks and vans have contributed to a network of growing delivery markets. They are the perfect resource for businesses looking to deliver quality products and services. A refrigerated truck could mean the difference between your perishable goods making it to the sales floor or the waste bin. Here are five fast facts to provide a deeper understanding of the benefits of a refrigerated truck or customized delivery vehicle.
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Our custom refrigeration solutions are direct drive systems. This means that our solutions are powered by the vehicles engine. With this feature, the refrigeration unit becomes a more reliable delivery vehicle. Furthermore, it can help avoid the added cost of a secondary diesel engine. With this type of design, the direct drive delivers the dependability needed to efficiently transport the goods.
Refrigerated trucks have been used to transport a variety of products that range from life-saving medications to live insects and animals. Reefers have been used to transport honey bees and penguins, amongst other things, which need controlled temperatures when being transported between environments. Refrigerated vans and trailers have also benefited tech and electronic companies. Many people are unaware that certain electronic devices need cool to cold temperatures for optimal operating capacity.
Floral delivery companies also utilize refrigerated vans and trailers to keep their products from prematurely wilting. Companies that sell perfume often use refrigerated trucks because the merchandise needs to be maintained at cool temperatures. This prevents the chemicals in the perfumes and colognes from heating up and changing the scent. Galleries, Museums, and Art Firms often rely on refrigerated vehicles to deliver priceless artwork. This is especially important for older art pieces that have temperature sensitive paints, oils, and canvases.
Your truck can have a refrigeration unit or a heating unit to ensure your goods are at the correct temperature during transport. Our direct drive refrigeration units are designed to meet any of your temperature needs. Perfect for folks looking for refrigerated vans with heating units to maintain their live fish en route to the pet store. If youre looking for a refrigerated unit that can maintain freezing temperatures for meat, poultry, or seafood than consider our direct drive reefers.
Knowing which kind of refrigeration unit will work the best for your company or clients needs is only half the battle. There are two kinds of refrigeration systems available, roof mounted and nose mounted. Nose mounted refrigeration units are ideal for medium sized boxed trucks, trailers, and vans. The unit is installed on the outside front-end of the chassis. This design can make it easier to access the unit for regular maintenance needs. If you have lighter commercial delivery vehicles, like a fleet of vans, using a nose-mounted system may be recommended.
Roof-mounted refrigeration units are ideal for larger vans, trailers, and trucks. The amount of refrigeration needed depends on the average external temperature during transport, the preferred temperature for the products, the amount of heat the products can give off, and the amount of insulation the vehicle has. This type of unit is recommended for companies that specialize in delivering frozen meat, dairy, poultry, or seafood.
Refrigerated trailers are referred to as reefers in the transportation industry. A refrigerated truck and van are also considered reefers for short. Essentially its a term used to describe any type of refrigerated delivery vehicle. There are businesses that have a fleet of reefers, indicating they have several delivery vehicles for their needs. If youre interested in expanding your delivery chain, consider the fleet options available with ATC.
ATC designs and manufactures the refrigeration units, so we can easily customize a truck refrigeration solution to your clients unique temperature needs. Floral companies, for instance, benefit from warm and cold temperatures for delivery. This is because of the variety of sensitive tropical plants available. With the right refrigeration unit, you can have multiple customized temperature settings, which is a feature known as dual temperature setting. It is great for various products requiring different temperatures during transport.
The cargo area is customized to accommodate multiple temperature sensitive products. One space is for the merchandise that needs cool temperatures while the other space can maintain a different environment and temperature level. For added convenience, the reefer can be designed with a temperature gauge inside the cargo area and inside the cab. This makes it easier to monitor the temperatures while the driver is en route to their destination.
Are you looking for a refrigerated truck, van or trailer for your company or clients? Dont hesitate to contact the experts at ATC for your refrigeration solutions. Well match you with a refrigeration unit to meet your needs. Ask our customer service and knowledgeable staff about our top-notch, cost-effective refrigeration solutions.
Advanced Temperature Control is the solution provider you need for all your transport refrigeration solutions.
Contact the direct drive refrigeration specialist nearest you or call ATC today to see what our experience and products can do for you.
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Reefer trailers, also known as refrigerated trailers, are integral components of the cold chain supply system. They are specially designed to transport perishable goods at controlled temperatures, ensuring the integrity of the products from origin to destination. Our reliance on reefer trailers is critical, as they are the key to maintaining product freshness, preventing spoilage, and delivering a variety of goods including food, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive items all across the supply chain.
Various types of refrigeration systems are employed within reefer trailers to meet specific hauling requirements. These systems are equipped to maintain temperatures ranging from frozen to cool and even ambient, depending on the goods being transported. Our understanding of these systems allows us to match the transport solution to the cargos specific needs, enhancing efficiency and reliability in delivery.
Efficient operation lies at the heart of reefer trailer utility. With advances in technology, todays refrigeration units are not only more effective but also more environmentally conscious, using various energy sources to power the cooling process. This evolution in refrigeration systems is an essential aspect, as we continuously seek to improve our environmental footprint while meeting the rigorous demands of the supply chain. Whether its short-haul deliveries or long interstate transits, we ensure the right refrigeration system is in place for each unique application within the cold chain.
Reefer trailers, an essential component of the cold chain logistics, ensure safe transportation of perishable goods by maintaining specific temperature conditions. Our focus is to understand the basic structure, diverse types, and key components that define these specialized trailers.
Reefer trailers, also known as refrigerated trailers, are specialized cargo trailers equipped with cooling systems to control the internal temperature. We use them extensively to transport goods that require a consistent temperature, such as food, flowers, and pharmaceuticals. The trailers ability to maintain temperature is not just about cooling; it can also preserve heat-sensitive products by maintaining an optimal warm temperature when necessary.
We categorize reefer trailers by size and capacity to suit various transportation needs:
The refrigeration unit of a reefer trailer is composed of the following critical components:
To support these components in maintaining the desired temperature, high-quality insulation is integrated into the walls of reefer trailers. This insulation is crucial to prevent the transfer of exterior heat into the refrigerated space, ensuring that our products remain at the correct temperature throughout transport.
In reefer trailers, maintaining a precise temperature is crucial for the quality and safety of perishable cargo. We focus on the core components that enable this temperature control: the cooling system operation and the compressor function.
Reefer trailers employ sophisticated cooling systems to create and maintain the desired temperature within the cargo space. These systems operate on a closed-loop mechanism, characterized by the circulation of a coolant. The sequence follows a continuous cycle starting with the evaporator absorbing heat from the interior air. The absorbed heat then vaporizes the liquid refrigerant.
Next, this refrigerant vapor is drawn into the compressor, marking the beginning of the Compressor Function phase.
The compressor, arguably the heart of the refrigeration cycle, propels the refrigerant throughout the system. Its main functions are to compress the vapor, raising its pressure, and as a consequence, its temperature as well.
This now high-pressure, hot vapor proceeds to the condenser. Here, the vapor releases its heat to the outside air, condensing into a high-pressure liquid. The cycle concludes as this liquid is then funneled through an expansion valve, which lowers its pressure. Upon returning to the evaporator, cooling occurs through heat absorption, and the process begins anew.
In our discussion of refrigeration for reefer trailers, we understand that maintaining precise temperature control is crucial for preserving the quality of transported goods. We leverage Transport Refrigeration Unit (TRU) technologies and advanced cooling systems to provide climate-controlled environments suited for a variety of cargo.
Transport Refrigeration Units, or TRUs, are at the core of our temperature control technology. These units employ both cooling and heating mechanisms to keep the interior of reefer trailers at a desired temperature, which can typically range from -20°F to 70°F (-29°C to 21°C). Its essential for us to ensure that these TRUs are consistently monitored and maintained for optimal performance, as they directly impact the quality and safety of temperature-sensitive freight.
Our advanced cooling systems incorporate state-of-the-art technology that facilitates precise temperature control within the reefer trailer. By using additional insulation and exploiting the latest developments in refrigeration processes, these systems can maintain exact temperatures regardless of external conditions. The emphasis is not only on the effective cooling but also on temperature consistency and energy efficiency, allowing us to transport goods in the most reliable and sustainable manner.
In the realm of reefer trailers, maintaining an optimal internal environment is critical. We focus our efforts on thermal regulation through robust insulation methods and air circulation techniques to safeguard perishable cargo during transport.
Our reefer trailers are fitted with walls designed to provide superior insulation. These walls are layered with high-grade materials that possess low thermal conductivity, ensuring minimal heat transfer. We define this insulating effectiveness by R-values, with higher values indicating greater thermal resistance. Typical materials used include polyurethane foam or polystyrene.
For air management, we implement airflow systems that distribute cold air uniformly throughout the reefer trailer. The key components for an effective system include:
The air circulation is modulated by a thermostat, which automates the temperature control within the trailer.
To enhance the thermal efficiency further, we incorporate additional insulation options. These include:
To ensure operational benefits and avoid common maintenance issues, we adopt specific maintenance practices and adhere to regular inspection schedules. These efforts are critical for maintaining the efficiency of reefer trailers.
We focus on comprehensive maintenance practices that include the inspection and upkeep of key reefer trailer components:
We adhere to a disciplined schedule of inspections to keep our reefer trailers in prime condition:
Despite our best efforts, we occasionally encounter common maintenance issues that must be addressed swiftly:
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When it comes to reefer trailers, we must consider the nature of goods we are transporting, the required temperature control, and securing the load to maintain integrity and prevent spoilage.
Perishable goods demand stringent temperature management to prevent spoilage. This includes a broad range of products such as fresh produce, dairy products, and meat. These items generally have short shelf lives and are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. During transport, the temperature in the trailer must be consistently maintained within the acceptable range specified for the goods.
Beyond edibles, temperature-sensitive freight can encompass pharmaceuticals and chemicals which may require both cool and warm environments depending on their nature. The goal here is to preserve not just the physical state of the items, but their chemical and biological integrity as well.
The physical security of the load affects product integrity. Adequate measures must be taken to secure freight during transit to prevent shifting. Shifting can lead to damage and contamination.
In our discussion of refrigeration systems for reefer trailers, we focus sharply on regulatory compliance and safety. These are critical in ensuring consumer health through proper temperature control and the safe transportation of hazardous materials.
When we transport hazardous materials, we adhere strictly to protocols set by regulatory bodies. Refrigeration units must be capable of maintaining the integrity of such materials by regulating temperatures precisely. For instance:
Our systems align with Environment Protection Agency (EPA) regulations that manage impact on the environment. Notable points include:
In our exploration of different types of refrigeration systems for reefer trailers, we understand that specific markets have distinct requirements. These systems are designed to cater to the sensitive nature of various products during transport.
For pharmaceuticals and medicines, temperature consistency is crucial. Our reefer trailers utilize advanced climate control technologies capable of maintaining temperatures within tight tolerances.
Pharmaceutical products, including vaccines, often need to be transported at 2°C to 8°C, while certain medicines require frozen conditions below -20°C to preserve their integrity.
The reefer trailers designed for the food industry are versatile, handling a wide range of temperatures to accommodate everything from fresh produce to frozen goods.
We maintain produce at near-harvest temperatures, whereas dairy products and seafood, susceptible to spoilage, are kept chilled to ensure freshness upon delivery. The specific temperature settings can range from -29°C for frozen items to 4°C for refrigerated cargo.
Certain goods demand specialized refrigeration solutions.
Electronics, for instance, require a dry, cool environment to prevent moisture build-up, while flowers need a high-humidity, cool setting to remain fresh. Our reefer trailers offer customizable settings that cater to these unique needs, ensuring safe and compliant transportation of sensitive cargo.
In addressing the need for sustainable and efficient refrigeration in reefer trailers, we focus on the latest advancements. These innovations present promising shifts toward reducing emissions and optimizing energy use.
The transportation sector is witnessing the integration of cutting-edge technologies to enhance the performance and efficiency of refrigeration systems.
Among them, Electric Reefers stand out as a significant step towards sustainability. Electric Reefers utilize electric power to reduce reliance on traditional diesel-powered systems, thereby cutting emissions.
Another advancement is the use of solar energy to power Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU), leading to an emission-free operation.
Additionally, technology such as energy axles has been introduced.
This innovative feature harnesses regenerative braking to generate electricity, thereby powering refrigeration systems.
Such technologies enable the TRUs to operate while the vehicle is in motion and accumulate charge in built-in batteries for continued cooling during stationary periods.
Our commitment to sustainability drives the exploration of alternatives that enhance fuel efficiency in reefer trailers.
For instance, fuel efficiency skirts are designed to streamline airflow and reduce drag, leading to notable reductions in fuel consumption.
Moreover, the strategic implementation of battery and solar-powered systems not only minimizes the carbon footprint but also promises a greener future for refrigerated transport.
Embracing these innovations helps us meet stricter environmental regulations while also paving the way for a more sustainable cold chain logistics industry.
When selecting a reefer trailer, its essential to understand the various types of refrigeration systems available, how they operate, and the advancements in technology that have been made.
We will explore some of the most pressing questions in the field of reefer trailers and their refrigeration systems.
The main types of refrigeration systems used in modern reefer trailers are mechanical, cryogenic, and hybrid systems.
Mechanical systems use a compressor to circulate refrigerant throughout the system. Cryogenic systems involve the use of liquid CO2 or nitrogen for cooling, while hybrid systems combine features of both mechanical and cryogenic technologies.
Mechanical refrigeration systems rely on a closed-loop system with a compressor, condenser, and evaporator to manage temperatures.
Cryogenic systems, in contrast, utilize the rapid expansion of gases such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide to cool the air inside the trailer. Meanwhile, hybrid systems leverage the advantages of both. They often use cryogenics for peak cooling demand while maintaining temperatures with mechanical components.
The most widely used refrigerant in reefer trailer units is R-404A.
This refrigerant is favored for its balance of efficiency, cooling capacity, and environmental impact. However, the industry is moving towards more eco-friendly alternatives due to global regulations on greenhouse gases.
A reefer van typically refers to a larger, semi-trailer sized unit designed for transporting significant volumes of temperature-sensitive goods over long distances.
Refrigerated vans are often smaller and are used for local deliveries or lighter loads. The key difference lies in the size and hauling capacity of the two.
Refrigerated trailers primarily use diesel-powered generators for their mechanical refrigeration systems, though some are now incorporating electric power sources to reduce emissions.
Cryogenic systems use either liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide that doesnt require an external power source, relying instead on the evaporation of these cryogenic gases to produce cooling.
Reefer trailer technology has evolved with advanced computer controls. These controls provide precise temperature management. Better insulation materials have also been developed that enhance thermal efficiency. In addition, there are more environmentally friendly refrigerants available. These developments have led to more reliable and energy-efficient refrigeration systems. They ensure the integrity of the perishable cargo throughout the transportation process.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Truck Electric Refrigeration Units. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.