Refrigeration systems for small to large cargo vans play an important role in the last-mile transport of perishable goods. These vehicles come with specialized cooling systems that maintain a stable temperature, guaranteeing that food, medicines, and other temperature-sensitive items remain fresh during transport. Understanding how these systems work can offer crucial insights for transport businesses that want to remain competitive in the cold chain.
Refrigeration Basics
Refrigeration is a method that extracts heat from a specific space to reduce its temperature. In refrigerated cargo vans and the larger reefer vans, this is accomplished via a refrigeration cycle that is made up of four key components: the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator.
Compressor:
The cycle begins with the compressor, which is responsible for compressing the refrigerant gas. This gas is typically a chemical compound that can easily change from a gas to a liquid and back again. R-134a refrigerant for fresh setpoints and R-452A for frozen and multi-temp applications is now the standard refrigerant for truck and trailer units like Thermo King due to its lower Global Warming Potential than some older refrigerants. When the gas is compressed, its pressure and temperature increase.
Condenser:
The high-pressure gas then flows into the condenser, where it releases heat to the outside environment. As it cools down, the gas condenses into a liquid. This process is facilitated by the condenser coils, which are usually located on the exterior of the van.
Expansion Valve:
The liquid refrigerant then passes through an expansion valve, where it experiences a drop in pressure. This sudden decrease in pressure causes the refrigerant to cool rapidly and partially evaporate, turning it into a low-pressure mixture of liquid and gas.
Evaporator:
Finally, the low-pressure refrigerant enters the evaporator, which is located inside the van. Here, it absorbs heat from the interior of the van, causing the refrigerant to evaporate completely back into a gas. This heat absorption cools the air inside the van, maintaining the desired temperature for the goods being transported.
Temperature Control
A key factor for mobile refrigeration units is their ability to maintain designated set-point temperature ranges. Cargo delivery vans with dedicated refrigeration units come with digital thermostats, enabling drivers to adjust and maintain the internal cargo temperature. This feature is crucial for transporting temperature sensitive items such as vaccines, which need precise temperature regulation to stay effective and compliant.
Insulation
To boost the performance of the refrigeration system, refrigerated cargo vans are equipped with superior insulation. This insulation reduces heat exchange with the external environment, aiding in preserving the internal temperature. Moreover, adequate airflow is crucial for optimal cooling efficiency. Some larger refrigerated cargo vans are equipped with fans that ensure cold air circulates evenly throughout the cargo area, preventing hot spots that could compromise the integrity of the goods.
Power Sources
Refrigerated cargo vans have the capability to function with various power sources. Certain models feature direct-drive, diesel, or electric-powered refrigeration systems. A direct drive refrigeration unit uses the vehicle’s engine to power the compressor, eliminating the need for a separate power source. A diesel drive refrigeration unit uses a built-in diesel engine to power the compressor, ensuring reliable cooling for perishable goods even when parked. Electric units are often preferred for urban deliveries, as they can run on the vehicles 12V power supply or be plugged into a power source when parked, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Portable Refrigeration Alternative
Dedicated refrigerated cargo vans have a built-in cooling system that maintains a consistent environment. However, they can be costly and may not always be necessary for smaller loads. Portable refrigeration units like Coldtainer offer flexibility and precise temperature management, making them ideal for last mile delivery. Utilizing the same commercial grade refrigeration system, thermostat and insulation in a portable rugged design, they ensure durability and precise temperatures, and can be used in any standard cargo van, pickup or truck. This versatility can lead to significant cost savings and increased efficiency than dedicated refrigerated van solutions.
Refrigerated cargo vans utilize sophisticated temperature control solutions that make last-mile delivery of perishable goods possible. Transport temperature control fleets looking to stay competitive in the cold chain rely on these refrigeration systems. They help maintain the safety, freshness and quality of temperature sensitive products from the point of origin to the final destination.
Thermo King Eastern Canada is an authorized Thermo King and Coldtainer sales, service, and parts dealer with a background deeply embedded in transport temperature control. If you have any questions regarding refrigeration systems for refrigerated cargo vans, contact Thermo King Eastern Canada. We have seven branches across eastern Canada to serve you.