Not only food keeps its cool
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• by Peter Lawton General Trailers (Fruehauf) is not only targeting food hauliers with the new air-conditioned version of its Coolliner insulated trailer, but any manufacturer whose products require controlled temperatures.
The quickly detachable cooling equipment makes it suitable for any cargo that needs to kept below a certain temperature, such as computer equipment.
The first 30 examples of the trailer are now in operation with a UK food manufacturer in a deal worth Lim.
In a 30°C ambient temperature the system is designed to maintain between 15-18°C above zero with a relative humidity of 55%, but GT says the unit should be able to drop as low as 10°C. The design is said to avoid the need for reefer units to run below their optimum capacity, allowing them to run lighter and quieter than traditional fridge trailers with better fuel efficiency.
The air-con system, designed by European Refrigeration in conjunction with GI, is separated into two areas on the trailer. The scroll compressor and evaporator are mounted on the front bulkhead, connected by a single electrical plug to a selfcontained diesel power pack mounted beside the trailer chassis and producing 10.2kW at 3,000rpm.
During periods of cooler weather the operator will be able to disconnect and remove the power pack in a matter of minutes, giving a weight saving of about 220kg.
The Coolliner trailers, which are 165mm taller than standard, will be available in City and Urban sizes as well as a maximum-size 26-pallet version.