Thermo King on Thursday, March 31, introduced two new roofline application cooling solutions for smaller large-commercial van fleets – the V-520 RT for fresh applications, and the V-520 RT MAX for frozen applications.
“We’re pleased to offer our customers who prefer large commercial vans an industry-leading solution that significantly increases their cooling capacity for city deliveries,” said Doug Lenz, director of product management for Thermo King. “The system also features easy-to-use Direct Smart Reefer control systems which provide comprehensive controls and diagnostics that simplify driver training.”
The V-520 RT units, built on the V-520 nose-mount technology for small trucks, feature a low-profile condenser that measures less than 7.5 inches above the roof to minimize risk of damage. Benefits of the V-520 RT units include reliable temperature management, SmartPower electric standby to help save fuel and reduce emissions, enhanced pull-down capability to help reach set point quickly after a stop, and an environmentally-friendly low refrigerant requirement of 4.5 pounds.
Thermo King announced enhancements to three of its SB-30 series units for increased energy and operational efficiency and greater uptime. The upgrades to the SB-130, SB-230 and SB-330 include a proprietary fuel filtration system to save fuel-related maintenance expenses for fleets; a new controller designed to allow data transfer via USB flash drive, allowing fleets to gain in-service time compared to data transfer via traditional laptops and cables; and an optional ultrasonic fuel sensor designed to provide more accurate fuel readings.
Two additional SB-30 series upgrades slated for June introduction include a new evaporator blower assembly expected to lower fuel costs while reducing required run time; and an integrated wireless technology designed to provide options for customers to track and control their refrigerated fleets via Thermo King or third-party telematics.
Thermo King also introduced an electronic throttling valve (ETV) for straight trucks designed to allow them to optimize energy and operational efficiency while improving product quality on delivery. The ETV enhances the company’s T-Series T-600, T-800 and T-1000 single-temp truck units with scroll compressors.
“Our customers are saying they need to do even more with their limited resources, and this unique solution helps them do just that,” Lenz said. “The ETV enables straight truck owners and operators to spend less money delivering higher-quality foods, pharmaceuticals and other fresh and frozen products to their customers.” The ETV’s benefits, according to the company, include:
Allowing cargo to remain fresh longer as the box temperature recovers to set point faster after each door opening;
Enabling owners and operators to save time and fuel with quick pull down, which cools the truck faster to save time on the front end of trips and maintains temperature efficiently;
Stretching calendar time between service intervals by increasing engine off time; and
Lowering fuel and maintenance costs, resulting in a low lifecycle cost.
