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Image supplied by Serco
Refrigerated transport vehicles are a significant investment for businesses . A full-length refrigerated vehicle , including the mechanical horse , refrigerated trailer and refrigeration unit , can cost R3-million or more . These vehicles require constant operation , as downtime for unloading can be costly . Additionally , maintaining the desired temperature , usually as low as -20 ° C , requires a significant amount of energy , making energy efficiency a major factor . As the world becomes increasingly environmentally conscious , the refrigerated
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Clinton Holcroft , CEO of Serco . |
transport industry is actively adopting sustainable solutions . Refrigeration technologies now focus on minimising carbon emissions and reducing reliance on harmful refrigerants . The use of renewable energy sources , such as solar power , is gaining traction , further reducing the carbon footprint of refrigerated transport operations .
Trucks range from small one-ton bakkies to large trailer trucks and can be configured with various systems including engine-drive systems , systems with a separate diesel engine and electric motor ( diesel electric ), eutectic systems , cryogenic systems and
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all-electric systems – creating a range to suit any application .
Via continuous research and research and development ( R & D ) in the mechanics , electronics , insulation factors and body work , technology has drastically improved over the years with newer vehicles being able to be fitted with many advanced options compared to what was available in the past .
The key challenges that face today ’ s refrigerated trailer fleet operators that led to this technology include :
• Reducing their environmental footprint to comply with evermore stringent requirements from ordering parties
• Ensuring the distribution of fresh products in densely populated urban areas where access is limited to lownoise , low-emissions vehicles
• Retaining flexibility needed to operate either distribution or long haul as required
When it comes to refrigerated transport , nearly all containers are equipped with an electric-driven unit that is bolted into the container . These units are powered by an electric system , which is used to deliver the container to a trailer . When the container is moved , a diesel generator is attached to the trailer to power the refrigeration system while travelling on the road . Once the container is placed on a ship and connected to the ship ’ s power supply , it is plugged into a power supply
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and remains connected to refrigeration throughout its journey .
However , refrigerated transport always carries the risk of product damage . The product can be damaged by either loss of temperature or by allowing the temperature to go too high or too low . For instance , if fresh produce is frozen , it can be damaged . Similarly , if frozen produce is allowed to thaw due to a malfunctioning refrigeration unit , improper airflow , or being loaded at the wrong temperature , it can also be damaged . Cross-contamination is another way in which products can be damaged during transport . For example , if a vehicle that was improperly cleaned after carrying fish is used to transport other products , everything can end up tasting like fish .
Therefore , it ’ s important for companies that transport perishable goods to have proper maintenance contracts in place for their refrigeration units . This will help ensure that their products are transported safely and efficiently .
Refrigeration systems with maintenance contracts are available for purchase , similar to service contracts for cars . These concepts have been developed over the years and are widely used . Maintenance is always a crucial aspect of refrigeration systems , and it ’ s important to ensure that they are functioning correctly before transporting perishable goods .
When transporting frozen products in a refrigerated vehicle , it ’ s essential to pre-trip the system and ensure that it is functioning
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