Carrier has launched a new multi-temperature reefer engine unit that will run on either diesel power or electric standby power. The hybrid Vector 1800MT offers other advantages, too, including 30 percent lower maintenance costs, a thinner profile and reduced fuel consumption, the company says. When parked at a shipper or receiver location, the unit can be plugged into standby power, which reduces noise and emissions.
The reefer unit’s componentry is simpler than traditional mechanical reefer units, according to Carrier. The unit consists of:
The Vector 1800MT uses 19 pounds of refrigerant, down from 32 with Carrier’s other multi-temperature offerings; and it has only one belt, instead of four. Fewer components also help reduce noise, says Ignacio Aguerrevere, director of marketing and product development for Carrier Transicold Truck/Trailer/Rail Americas. Because it heats electrically, compressor life also is extended since it is only used during cooling, Aguerrevere says.
The Vector 1800MT comes with built-in 460-volt plug-in capability, which is important in urban distribution, and in California where emissions regulations are strictest. Operators can tap into standby power for emissions and noise abatement as well as fuel savings.
The unit can be specified with Carrier’s Advance microprocessor control, which allows for precision temperature control. Matched with Carrier single- and dual-discharge evaporators, the Vector 1800MT also serves 11 different trailer configurations. Carrier says the unit will be more expensive than mechanical units, but will have more applications and flexibility.
