BOC, the UK & Ireland’s largest supplier of industrial gases and medical gases, has launched its new eco-friendly Frostcruise truck and trailer refrigeration system at the Commercial Vehicle Show.
A cryogenic alternative to diesel-powered refrigeration, BOC says Frostcruise offers a zero operating carbon footprint and zero emissions (particulate, NOx and CO2) at the point of delivery, and a 64% reduction in total carbon footprint compared to an equivalent diesel-mechanical refrigeration system.
Another advantage over diesel is Frostcuise’s near-silent operation at 56 dB, which has been recognised by the Noise Abatement Society’s quiet delivery certificate Piek award and allows for deliveries 24/7 even in urban areas where laws often limit noise to 60-65 dB between the hours of 10pm and 6am.
Frostcruise’s uses liquid nitrogen (LIN) at -196°C to indirectly chill the air in the truck compartment using a heat exchanger temperature. It can reduce a typical trailer air temperature from ambient to 2°C within eight minutes, less than half the time of a mechanical refrigeration system, and has the ability to maintain accurate product temperature despite multiple delivery stops.
Diesel powered refrigeration systems often require the driver to run the fridge in continuous mode whilst delivering goods or after off-loading. This can lead to increased fuel consumption, noise pollution and further emissions. As the Frostcruise system is not reliant on an engine, the load remains chilled regardless of conditions.
