Refrigerated trucks, as key tools for transporting perishable goods, are invaluable in ensuring that temperature-sensitive products such as food and pharmaceuticals reach their destination in optimal condition. These specialized vehicles are equipped with cooling systems capable of maintaining a constant temperature range of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (35.6 to 46.4 degrees Fahrenheit).
The following blog post will provide an in-depth look at the factors that affect the service life of a refrigerated truck and discuss how to extend its service life through proper maintenance.
Factors affecting the life of refrigerated trucks
The life and performance of refrigerated trucks are restricted by many factors:
Fuel and lubricant quality: High-quality fuel and lubricants are critical to the smooth operation of the refrigeration system. Clean fuel and proper lubrication can effectively reduce wear and extend the service life of the engine and refrigeration system.
Road conditions: Frequent driving on rough and uneven roads increases wear and tear on vehicle components, potentially leading to premature aging.
Operating environment: Extreme weather, especially in areas with significant climate change, will place additional burden on the refrigeration system. Proper maintenance and insulation are therefore crucial to maintaining cargo quality.
Routine maintenance: Regular replacement of engine oil, diesel, coolant, wiper water, etc. is the basis for maintaining the overall health of the vehicle.
Strategies to extend the life of your refrigerated trucks
Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your refrigerated truck.
Here are some basic maintenance measures:
Regular professional inspections: Schedule regular inspections by qualified technicians with experience in refrigerated truck maintenance, covering the refrigeration unit, engine and other critical components.
Temperature Calibration: Regularly calibrate the temperature setting of your refrigeration unit to ensure it accurately maintains the desired temperature.
Seal maintenance: Regularly inspect and replace damaged door seals to prevent temperature leaks and ensure efficient operation of the refrigeration system.
Leakage treatment: Once a liquid leakage is discovered, it should be dealt with immediately to avoid damage to the engine and refrigeration system.
Clean the condenser and air duct: Keep the condenser and air duct clean and dust-free to maintain cooling efficiency.
Sensor maintenance: Check the sensors in your refrigeration unit regularly to make sure they are providing accurate temperature readings.
Refrigeration system repairs and upgrades
Despite proper maintenance, refrigeration systems can develop aging problems over time. Fortunately, these systems are usually repaired by experienced technicians. Whether it’s repairing a failed component or dealing with a refrigerant leak, timely repairs can extend your truck’s life and ensure its transportation reliability.
In some cases, if the refrigeration system is too old or severely damaged, replacement may need to be considered. New refrigeration equipment often offers greater energy efficiency and functionality, bringing many benefits to the transportation process.