Arla Foods

Carrier Transicold UK has modified Arla Foods’ tri-axle combination trailer so it can power the motors used when loading and discharging raw milk, instead of using a tractor unit with power take-off (PTO).

The MT Award-winning trailer, which is made up of a half refrigerated body and half milk tanker, has been modified to create an export power mode on its Vector 1550 City refrigeration unit, which is now used to power the milk tanker motor for loading and unloading raw milk.

Carrier Transicold says the modified trailer, which entered operation in December  on a 12-month trial basis, has the potential to save Arla Foods 1,460 litres of diesel per trailer per year. The pumps are now powered by the refrigeration unit which runs off a 1.5-litre engine, rather than a 11-litre truck engine. It also reduces the overall vehicle weight by 250kg.

Carrier says the operator will also save on maintenance and repair costs, as it has removed the need for PTO, associated hydraulics and Suzie boom. The trailer can also now be coupled with any tractor unit in the fleet.

Justin Grace, MD, northern Europe, Carrier Transicold, said: “The technology behind the export power mode makes the real possibility of enabling Vector-equipped trailers to be even more efficient, versatile and indispensable in the future. This could include powering moving decks, tail-lifts and even tyre pressure inflation systems.”

Arla Foods won the Low Carbon & Efficiency catergory at the 2013 Motor Transport Awards for its combination trailer. It also earned a place on the Best Use of Technology shortlist this year.

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