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coot runnin
Page 47
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Maximising reefer efficiency
In a similar vein to installing a night heater in day cabs and vans, refrigerated transport operators can also cut costs and improve the efficiency of their trucks by following a few simple tips.
Although diesel refrigeration equipment consumes a small quantity of fuel relative to the vehicle engine, it pays to maximise economy According to leading reefer-maker Thermo King, a trailer refrigeration unit typically runs around 2,000 hours a year, so, over a seven-year lifespari, it can consume up to 35,000 litres of fuel. Even minuscule savings are going to make a significant difference to a transport company's operating budget.
Graham Eames, director at cold storage association Transfrigoroute, says; "Reefer units consume roughly 2.7 litres of fuel an hour, depending on the model, and it is imperative they are running smoothly.
"Automatic door switches are a must It's inefficient to have the reefer motor running while the doors are open; and it's also good to spec your refrigerated trailer with door curtains to stop ambient air entering the fridge."
The right tool for the job Reefer units and refrigerated trucks should be seen as one item, too. Put simply, the two work together as a complete system.The best-value refrigerated box paired with the best-value reefer won't necessarily yield the best results.
Bill Roxby, marketing manager at Thermo King, says: "An overor-under-specified unit will result in unnecessary wastage. Make sure you select a proven and fuel-efficient unit, too, so that you get the maximum amount of energy from the fuel burned. It's imperative operators choose the right tool for the job." But Roxby stresses it's not just the reefer motor that needs attention — getting the right trailer is also key to reduce fuel consumption. "Avoid dark or coloured trailers; white is more effective at radiating heat and choose an insulated body with a low K-value."
Both experts agree that minimising door openings is vital if a cold-chain operator wants to reduce fuel consumption.
Eames says: "Most modern reefer units have a fast-cool mode, effectively doubling the motor's output to get the insulated body to the desired temperature quickly."
Maintenance — or lack thereof — can influence the way in which reefer motors work. Any cracked or perished seals should be repaired pronto in order to stop the cool air escaping. If they are left unchecked, the motor will have to run continually to maintain the temperature inside.
While it is not always possible, cold-chain hauliers should insist goods are fully precooled to the required unit set-point — reefer motors should be used solely to maintain temperatures during transit. Scott Durgan, the commercial vehicle manager at Carrier Transicold, echoes this point: "A modern fridge is there to maintain the required temperature, not to cool or heat goods that were at the wrong temperature to begin with.
"If the goods are not at the correct temperature to begin with, the motor will be working overtime to rectify this."
Importance of training A reefer motor also needs regular attention and servicing. Vents need to be checked to ensure there is no blockage in airflow and refrigerant levels have to be topped up from time to time.
Eames also highlights the importance of adequate driver training and says a properly trained driver is an asset to any operator. He says: "It's vital that he or she is properly versed in refrigeration transport best practice since they will then be able to identify potential problems, select the correct mode for the goods being transported and, most of all, reduce operating costs." •