12° F. in the Tropics
Page 53
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
ARECENT order received by Vauxhall Motors, Ltd., Luton, was for two Bedford tractors fitted with the Scammell automatic coupling gear, and five Scammell semi-trailers for use with the tractors. Three of the semi-trailers were to be supplied as chassis. the remaining two to be fitted with insulated bodies.
Mickleover Transport, Ltd., Whitby Avenue, London, N.W.10, built the bodies to a specification provided by Scammell Lorries, Ltd., Watford. They are pop-riveted in light alloy. The only steel sections employed are the channel members supporting the six Winget Dole vacuum cold plates, three of which are mounted vertically on each side of the body.
The thickness of the Onozote insula-' tion to the sides, ends, roof and floor. is 7} in. The roof has a canopy, with an air space open all round, between the panels.
Frigidaire refrigeration equipment is installed at the front of the body. The electric motor which drives the compressor is wired for mains operation, the pluu socket being located behind a small trap-door on the right-hand side.
Access to the plant can be gained by removing a panel in the front. but for normal inspection a large trap-door is arranged underneath the compartmenr on the left-hand side.
The temperature inside the body can be noted from a dial indicator mounted in the nose of the semi-trailer. A requirement of the cooling plant was that it should he possible to reduce the temperature to at least 12° F. before loading and maintain a temperature after sealing of not more than 14° F. for a period of 12-14 hours.
This interior view of one of the insulated bodies shows the eutectic plates and the manner in which they are supported on each side of the body. The refrigeration plant is carried at the front.
As the effectiveness of the hoi.d-over plates tails off, it is necessary only to plug-in the plant to the mains.
The Scammell semi-trailer chassis on which these bodies arc built is the'standard 6-8-tonner with 21-ft. drop frame, and Michelin Metallic A20 tyre equipment. The Commercial Motor understands that these outfits are for use by the Kuwait Government.