ThermoMed tests innovative electric cooling systems

Quieter, more environmentally friendly, and more economical in operation: trans-o-flex subsidiary ThermoMed starts a one-year practical test to see if electric cooling systems can deliver on their sustainability promises. A buffer battery allows the motor to be turned off during longer stops, increasing reliability. The goals are energy savings and reduced noise pollution.

(Weinheim) The trans-o-flex subsidiary ThermoMed, specialized in the transport of pharmaceuticals with active temperature control, is now testing three delivery vehicles equipped with a novel, purely electric cooling system over the course of a year. “Although the units are more expensive to purchase, they are expected to be quieter, more environmentally friendly, and more economical in operation,” says Wolfgang P. Albeck, CEO of trans-o-flex.

So far, there is only one manufacturer offering the innovative technology for vehicles in the class up to 3.5 tons with a thermo box structure. “That’s why we are now testing whether the devices can deliver the promised benefits in daily use and whether they are as reliable as conventional cooling units.”

Conventional cooling units of vans draw the necessary energy exclusively from the vehicle’s diesel engine. “When the vehicle stops for delivery, the engine may need to keep running to ensure temperature control,” explains Albeck. “This not only leads to higher fuel consumption but also to increased noise pollution.”

Power supply while driving

Both of these issues can now be avoided with new, electrically powered devices. During driving, the power supply is provided by a generator driven by the engine. Once the engine is off, a buffer battery supplies the necessary power. The vehicle’s engine is also not needed for the necessary pre-conditioning of the cargo area to the correct temperature. The vehicle can be connected to a conventional 230-volt outlet, which simultaneously charges the buffer battery. In the event of an engine failure, the vehicles can maintain the temperature for several hours using the battery. And since many vehicles operate in the hospital sector, the reduced noise from the battery-powered cooling is also positively noticeable there.

In terms of purchase price, the Mitsubishi TE 30 units are about 3,000 euros more expensive than the cooling devices previously used by ThermoMed, according to Albeck. Additionally, the system (including battery) weighs 192 kilograms, almost 40 kilograms more than a comparable conventional system. “However, the overall costs could still be lower in the end because the fuel consumption of the carrier vehicle decreases and the maintenance and repair costs of the electric system should be lower,” says Albeck. “But we want to verify all of this more closely now.”

Different temperature zones

The testing phase began in April. The electric cooling units are being tested in conjunction with three latest-generation Mercedes Sprinter vans and a thermo box from the manufacturer Spier. The cooling unit is suitable for vehicles with different temperature zones. Albeck: “We will also test the vehicles in the pure cooling range of 2 to 8 degrees, in the so-called room temperature range of 15 to 25 degrees, as well as in mixed operation with two temperature zones.”

Photo: © trans-o-flex