TIP trials groundbreaking axle energy recuperation refrigeration technology

The technology used in the trial enables the trailer’s refrigeration unit to be powered using energy that is recovered by an ‘e-axle’ during braking or driving downhill and that is subsequently stored in a high voltage battery. The unit’s energy management system is then said to provide power from the battery to the refrigeration unit ‘intelligently’ by engaging the system’s generators when it is most efficient to do so.

The AxlePower energy recovery system and e-Power axle have been developed in collaboration by leading transport temperature control solution provider Thermo King and leading axle and suspension system provider BPW respectively and the solution has already undergone rigorous field testing.

The trial sees a brand new TIP e-reefer refrigerated trailer go into real life operation in the cold chain sector. A number of its customers will have the opportunity to experience the new technology and better understand if the solution meets their operational and business needs, whilst helping meet any decarbonisation goals that their business may have. Trialling with different customers will help TIP better understand the benefits of the technology in differing operating conditions and scenarios.

The trailer is fitted with TIP Insight telematics, including TIP’s electronic braking performance monitoring system, BrakePlus, and comprehensive reporting concerning the performance of the e-reefer technology throughout the trial will be available.

The Chereau manufactured e-reefer has been supplied by The Reefer Trailer Centre and has been specified with customised features in order to maximise the capabilities of the refrigeration technology that the trailer is equipped with. Adaptations include the installation of innovative Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP), the use of HFO Foam and of half-width sliding bulkheads, for temperature-controlling a smaller area when transporting a partial load. A switch is also fitted to the rear door which turns off the evaporator when the door is opened so that energy is not lost, whilst a solid front evaporator protector prevents any waste or product getting into it, thus limiting it’s functionality.

The aim of the trial, as with other e-reefer trials that TIP has and will continue to embark upon, is to determine the capability and efficiency of the refrigeration system under varying operating conditions, comparing it with both traditional diesel-powered refrigeration and other ‘decarbonised’ refrigeration solutions.

Mike Furnival, managing director of TIP UK & Ireland said: “TIP continues to investigate and trial innovative and sustainable systems that are set to form the backbone of the temperature-controlled sector of the transport industry. TIP’s trial of this particular technology on UK roads will enable us to better understand just how an axle energy recuperation system can benefit our customers that operate within the sector. We look forward to the outcome of the trial.”