How does truck refrigeration work

Typically, a full tank will last a few days, depending on the difference between the temperature of the load and the outside temperature.

It pays for a driver to know roughly how long it takes for the chiller unit to get to the correct temperature — turning up to pick up a load with when the truck or trailer is not at the right temperature might mean the truck is rejected and asked to return several hours later. At the front of the space, the chilled air is blown out of a vent, usually across the top of the load cold air sinks.

Inside the chilled area, the floor usually has channels to allow the air to flow underneath the goods. Where a partial load is being transported, or where the trailer supports dual temperatures, thick bungs can be used. This is more efficient as the space that must be chilled is smaller. Oversized height, length, and width can prove problematic in some situations.

Luckily, we offer several models that provide loads of storage while being contained in a standard-sized van or truck. Though these vehicles might not be suited for larger industrial-sized deliveries, they function excellently for those with smaller product quantities and size limitations to consider.

Featuring side-access doors for easy entry, these refrigerated vehicles can make deliveries a breeze. One possible issue you may run into when finding a refrigerated truck or van is the price. However, there are affordable options out there:.

Rather than buying a pre-fab, consider a more customized truck that fits your specific needs of size and space. There are tons of fleet vehicles that are great for your price range. For those considering a refrigerated truck hire or purchase, we have explained how reefer trucks are cleverly designed to regulate temperature and prevent the spoilage of your precious cargo. People often think that refrigerators work by generating cold air to keep their contents cool, but this is not actually the case — you cannot create coldness from nothing.

In truth, refrigerators function as self-contained units that are sealed from outside heat and use constant, cyclical processes to keep the temperature inside regulated. In the case of refrigerated trucks , the cargo compartment is sealed to prevent heat from entering, and a refrigeration system is used to prevent the temperature from dropping when the doors are opened.

The cargo compartment is sealed and insulated against heat by way of a sort of polymer form, which allows temperatures to stay fairly stable even before the use of a refrigeration system. The gas is then reintroduced into the condenser for the process to begin again. As this process is continually repeated, the atmosphere inside the refrigerated truck becomes gradually colder and colder.

As you can see, the principle behind the operation of a refrigerated truck is fairly simple. Of course this is a simplified explanation, and there are a few different subtleties beyond the scope of this FAQ, such as the temperature regulation mechanism and the intricacies of the condenser and evaporator systems, but it should have removed some of the mystery behind refrigerated trucks and their operation.

As always, Glacier Vehicles is always happy to answer any questions you have about refrigerated vehicles, so get in touch with us today! Vehicle Search. Refrigeration Type Both Fridge Freezer. Vehicle Size Small Medium Large. Condition Both Used New.