Carrier Transicold has launched its Vector 8611MT multi-temperature trailer refrigeration unit. Designed for trailers split lengthwise with a center dividing wall, the unit creates two refrigerated compartments without requiring a remote evaporator. Carrier Transicold is part of Carrier, a provider of heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies.
“From the moment we announced the Vector 8611MT unit, there was tremendous interest from grocery distribution and food service operations that deliver mixed loads and can most benefit from its design,” said Patrick McDonald, product manager of trailer products at Carrier Transicold. “The all-electric architecture of Carrier Transicold’s Vector platform enables the Vector 8611MT unit to independently manage both zones more simply and efficiently than mechanically interconnected competitive dual-discharge systems.”
Introduced in limited production in 2019, the Vector 8611MT unit incorporates dual evaporators and fans into a single unit for two-zone cooling, with side-by-side compartments for perishable and frozen goods. The company noted that installation is simplified by eliminating the need for a remote evaporator.
The Vector 8611MT unit, like others in the platform family, uses E-Drive technology, in which the diesel engine runs a 21-kVA generator that powers the all-electric refrigeration system. Vector units have the advantage of built-in electric standby capability, so when parked for loading, unloading or staging, they can be operated via a separate power source, providing full refrigeration capacity while eliminating refrigeration unit engine noise, emissions and fuel consumption, the company stated.
"Vector unit architecture eliminates most refrigerant valves and significantly reduces the number of braze joints and potential refrigerant leak points compared to mechanically interconnected competitive models," according to Carrier Transicold. "Uniquely, the Vector 8611MT unit has independent air control, optimizing airflow and pull-down to both zones. If heating is required, the unit offers consistent electric heat, rather than hot gas heat."
This reduces system complexity and enables the unit to shut down the compressor and other refrigeration components during heating, resulting in fuel savings, the company added. The unit provides 55,000 BTU of cooling per hour at a set point of 35 degrees Fahrenheit and excels at freezing temperatures.
