How Do Refrigerated Trucks Work to Keep Perishable Goods Fresh?

Introduction

Refrigerated trucks are an essential part of the transportation industry, particularly for food and pharmaceutical products. These vehicles use a complex system to maintain a specific temperature inside the trailer, ensuring that perishable goods remain fresh during transit. In this article, we will explore how refrigerated trucks work and the components that make up their cooling system.

Cooling System

The cooling system in a refrigerated truck consists of several components that work together to maintain a consistent temperature. The first component is the evaporator, which is responsible for removing heat from the air inside the trailer. The evaporator is typically located on the ceiling of the trailer and contains a refrigerant fluid that absorbs heat from the air as it passes through.

The second component is the compressor, which compresses the refrigerant fluid and increases its temperature. The hot, compressed refrigerant then flows into the condenser, which is located on the back of the trailer. The condenser is responsible for releasing the heat absorbed by the refrigerant and cooling it back down to a liquid state.

The final component is the expansion valve, which regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. This valve ensures that the refrigerant is at the correct pressure and temperature as it enters the evaporator, where the cooling process begins again.

Temperature Control

To maintain a specific temperature inside the trailer, refrigerated trucks use a thermostat or temperature control unit. The temperature control unit measures the temperature inside the trailer and sends a signal to the cooling system to adjust the temperature as needed. This ensures that the temperature inside the trailer remains constant, regardless of the temperature outside.

Insulation: In addition to the cooling system and temperature control unit, refrigerated trucks are also designed with insulation to keep the cool air inside. The walls, ceiling, and floor of the trailer are typically made of insulated panels that prevent heat from entering the trailer. The doors and seals are also designed to be airtight, further reducing the amount of warm air that enters the trailer.

Conclusion

Refrigerated trucks are an essential part of the transportation industry, particularly for perishable goods that require specific temperature conditions. The cooling system, temperature control unit, and insulation all work together to maintain a consistent temperature inside the trailer, ensuring that perishable goods remain fresh during transit. By understanding how refrigerated trucks work, we can appreciate the complexity of these vehicles and the important role they play in our daily lives.