Carrier Transicold introduces thinner intermodal reefer unit
Carrier Transicold says its new Vector 1550 domestic intermodal refrigeration system features a thin profile, enabling greater capacity utilization within a standard 53-foot North American intermodal container.
As a result, up to 7% more cargo can be carried for greater shipping efficiency over rail and highway, the company maintained.
“With the Vector 1550 unit, Carrier Transicold engineered a space-efficient transport refrigeration system that fits within a trim envelope that is a third thinner than a traditional transport refrigeration unit in the US,” said Patrick McDonald, trailer product manager for Carrier Transicold.
The Vector 1550 unit allows a domestic intermodal refrigerated container to accommodate an extra row of pallets, resulting in cube loads similar to 53-foot, over-the-road trailers. The thin-profile Vector 1550 unit also reduces total weight by as much as 570 pounds compared to competitive standard-size refrigeration systems, Carrier said, and by 200 pounds compared to competitive slim-profile designs.
“Compared to its competitive counterpart, the Vector 1550 unit is thinner and lighter, while also being a high-efficiency performer with lower engine run speeds, producing as much as 27% more cooling per hour per RPM,” McDonald said.
As part of Carrier Transicold’s Vector family, the Vector 1550 unit utilizes E-Drive technology. Unlike conventional mechanical transport refrigeration units, those with E-Drive technology use a high-output generator direct-coupled to a diesel engine to power an all-electric refrigeration system. Using intelligent controls, the system can automatically turn on and off individual components, such as the compressor and fans, running only what it needs, when needed.
As a result, components run fewer hours and last longer than traditional counterparts, the company claimed.
The simplified, clean refrigeration architecture eliminates many serviceable items in conventional mechanical transport refrigeration systems, including vibrasorbers, clutches, shaft seals, alternators, drive belts and pulleys that require routine maintenance.
As with other units in the Vector platform, the 1550 offers integrated electric standby, enabling the unit to be plugged into a power source when parked. This eliminates emissions and noise from the refrigeration unit engine, conserves fuel and reduces operating costs, Carrier said. The Vector system provides the unit’s full rated refrigeration capacity when on standby.
The Vector 1550 system also can be coupled with Carrier Transicold’s eSolutions telematics system for remote monitoring of system operation and container temperatures, generation of automatic “proof of temperature” compliance reports to maintain food safety standards, and providing enhanced control features, such as remote software updates and data downloads.
For more information on the Vector 1550, locate an expert in Carrier Transicold’s North America dealer network at carrier.com/truck-trailer/en/north-america/service-support.
