FEATURE
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
Innovation to reduce
operating costs
By John Ackermann
Logistics operators are demanding refrigerated vehicles that are more fuel
efficient and have cargo temperatures that are maintained at optimum levels,
whether in single or dual compartment vehicles.
Aerowing has a curved roof at front and rear end with a level section in-between to allow for the positioning of a moveable partitioning in multi-temperature vehicles.
CUSTOM-MADE TRAILER
Elite Fibre has been a preferred supplier of
refrigerated vehicle bodies, trailers, and
rigid trucks for LiebenLogistics for many
years.
During an interview with Cold Link
Africa, Mark Watters of Elite Fibre said,
“Due to a constant drive by LiebenLogistics
to reduce vehicle operating costs to offer
clients added value, Sakkie Liebenberg
requested us to design an aerodynamic
refrigeration trailer that would reduce fuel
consumption without compromising on
other design specifications. After much
deliberation among the LiebenLogistics
technical executives and our team as well
as many visits to Europe, our Aerowing tri-
axle semi-trailer was unveiled.
“In designing the Aerowing with its
teardrop-shaped roof, we faced a
number of challenges. The height of the
front wall had to be sufficient to have the
refrigeration unit fitted. The curved roof
of the load space could not be allowed
to restrict the movement of the roll pallets
used by LiebenLogistics and
other operators.
“Our Aerowing has a curved roof in the
front and rear ends with a level section
in-between to allow for the positioning
of a moveable partitioning in multi-
temperature vehicles.
“With the design having the curved
front and rear ends and level section in-
between, the trailer can be any length up
to the maximum legal limit.
“The aerodynamic performance is further
improved by a wind deflector on the rear
roof, close to the doors.
“On the outside of the sides of the rear
door frame, we have fitted imported
Airtab wind deflectors.
“With all these features, it is estimated
that fuel consumption will be reduced
by at least 10%. The first vehicle went into
service in April 2017 and its performance
will be closely monitored to assess fuel
savings under actual operating conditions
in different weather and road conditions.”
While the performance of the Aerowing
is still to be proven, Vivian Turner, director
of Longhaul Operations, had this to say, “It
is still too early for LiebenLogistics to assess
actual fuel savings. This will need at least
COLD LINK AFRICA • July | August 2017
three months of operation, but after only
two long-distance trips, the driver was able
to notice a marked difference in the road
holding and handling of the vehicle. Better
vehicle handling adds to the comfort of
the driver and is a prime consideration in
our strict road safety standards.”
SPLIT LOADS
Split loads of different products at different
temperatures are on the increase in local
and long-distance logistics. Convenience
food chains such as KFC, McDonalds, and
Steers require frozen patties, chilled salads,
and fresh buns and sauces to be delivered
in a single vehicle for economic reasons,
better service levels, and security. With all
frozen, chilled, and ambient perishables
www.coldlinkafrica.co.za
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