How to Consider Insulated Panel Construction for Refrigerated Trucks

Thermal integrity is a concern for all reefers, but there are many ways you can improve the thermal performance of your reefer to keep temperature-sensitive goods fresher for longer.

There are three areas to consider when specifying insulation panels for reefer trucks: insulation quality, trailer lining, and roof and floor design.

 

Consideration

Quality refrigerated insulated containers should always consider the following.

The thickness of the insulation

The thickness of a reefer's insulation bulkhead should be determined by its intended operation. For example, a reefer designed to transport produce will require less insulation than a reefer designed to transport ice cream.

Insulation Coverage

It is also important to consider the insulation coverage of the trailer. A key component of proper insulation is the distribution of insulation bubbles in the foam insulation of the reefer panels. These bubbles are responsible for the actual insulation, so to prevent heat intrusion, they must be evenly distributed throughout the panel.

Foaming process

The insulation should be consistently distributed throughout the trailer without any gaps or weak spots.

Lining

When specifying a refrigerated trailer, it is important to consider the trailer liner. Because of their permeability, traditional liners used in refrigerated trailers do not effectively seal insulation or provide superior protection against outgassing.

 

Temperature Control Type isolation board

 

Ineffective liners

Moisture intrusion caused by permeable liners increases the overall weight and limits the available load size over time.
In the early life of all refrigerated trailers, insulation outgassing can develop rapidly, resulting in a significant loss of insulation performance and continuing to decline throughout the life of the trailer.
Reefers can lose up to 25% of their insulation capacity within the first year due to the degassing effect, which reduces the ability to maintain thermal integrity and results in higher refrigeration fuel costs.

 

Roof and Floor Design

Just as heat escapes through your head and feet, the trailer's roof and floor also affect its thermal efficiency. These two surfaces can reduce your thermal efficiency, so they should not be ignored.
For optimal thermal efficiency, look for these qualities in the floor and roof of your reefer.
Durability
Insulation capability
Sealing against moisture intrusion
Wood-free construction

 

 

WEITE's insulated bulkheads feature a proprietary metal barrier that effectively seals the trailer's insulation, significantly slowing outgassing and improving thermal performance over the life of the trailer. This helps reduce cooling run times, which in turn reduces fuel consumption. We have rigorously tested our insulated roof and floor design, two components of a durable, high-quality and well-protected reefer that is built to last.

 

Reefer insulation significantly impacts your fleet's ability to protect cargo and provide a superior customer experience. Please contact us for specific information and quotes.