Refrigeration Fans

Refrigerated vehicles are an essential component of the cold chain in the transport and delivery of perishable goods, including food, pharmaceuticals, and medical supplies. The cold chain involves maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the supply chain to ensure the quality, safety, and freshness of the goods. Refrigerated vehicles use a variety of cooling systems to maintain the required temperature, including mechanical refrigeration systems and cryogenic systems. However, one critical component of refrigerated vehicles that is often overlooked is the fan system.

The fan system in a refrigerated vehicle plays a crucial role in maintaining the required temperature. The fan system works by circulating the cold air inside the refrigerated compartment, ensuring that the temperature is evenly distributed throughout the cargo area. The fan system is responsible for creating a consistent flow of air, removing any hot spots, and preventing the formation of ice in the refrigeration unit. The fan system also plays a critical role in removing any excess humidity, which can lead to the formation of ice, reducing the efficiency of the refrigeration system, and compromising the quality of the cargo.

If your fan should fail or you notice that your vehicle's cargo area is not being cooled as it should then perhaps it is time to upgrade your fan with a high quality replacement axial fan from SPAL. Our fans are IP68 waterproof rated and come with a 36 month warranty.

12v Replacement refrigeration fans for vehicle units

24v Replacement refrigeration fans for vehicle units

Fans fitted to refrigerated vehicles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they are designed to meet the specific requirements of the refrigeration system. The most common types of fans used in refrigerated vehicles are axial fans and centrifugal fans. Axial fans are designed to move large volumes of air at a low pressure, while centrifugal fans are designed to move air at a high pressure.

Axial fans are the most common type of fan used in refrigerated vehicles. They are designed to move a large volume of air at a low pressure, which makes them ideal for use in the refrigeration system. Axial fans have a simple design and are relatively inexpensive, which makes them an attractive option for refrigeration manufacturers. They are also efficient and reliable, which is critical for ensuring the safe transport of perishable goods.

Centrifugal fans are another type of fan used in refrigerated vehicles. They are designed to move air at a high pressure, which makes them ideal for use in the condenser unit of the refrigeration system. The condenser unit is responsible for removing the heat generated by the refrigeration system, and the centrifugal fan plays a critical role in this process. Centrifugal fans are more expensive than axial fans, but they are more efficient and can move air over longer distances, making them ideal for use in larger refrigerated vehicles.

Fans fitted to refrigerated vehicles can be powered by different sources, including electricity, hydraulic power, and engine power. The most common source of power for fans in refrigerated vehicles is electricity, which is generated by the vehicle's battery. The use of electricity to power the fan system is efficient, reliable, and cost-effective. It also allows for greater control over the fan system, making it possible to adjust the speed and direction of the fans as required.

Hydraulic power is another source of power for fans in refrigerated vehicles. This system uses a hydraulic pump to generate the power required to run the fan system. Hydraulic power is efficient and reliable, but it is more expensive than using electricity. It is also more complex and requires more maintenance than an electric system.

Engine power is another source of power for fans in refrigerated vehicles. This system uses the power generated by the vehicle's engine to run the fan system. Engine power is efficient and reliable, but it is more expensive than using electricity or hydraulic power. It also requires additional fuel consumption, which can add to the operating costs of the vehicle.

Maintaining a refrigeration unit fan

Maintaining the fan system in a refrigerated vehicle is critical for ensuring the safe and efficient transport of perishable goods. The fan system is responsible for circulating the cold air throughout the cargo area, removing any hot spots and excess humidity, and preventing the formation of ice in the refrigeration unit. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that the fan system operates efficiently and reliably, and to prevent breakdowns or malfunctions that could compromise the quality and safety of the cargo.

Here are some key steps for maintaining a fan fitted to a refrigerated vehicle:

• Clean the fan blades: The fan blades should be cleaned regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or ice that may have accumulated. This will ensure that the fan operates efficiently and reduces the risk of damage to the blades. Use a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to clean the blades gently, being careful not to bend or damage them.
• Check the motor and drive belts: The motor and drive belts are critical components of the fan system, and they should be checked regularly to ensure that they are in good condition. Look for signs of wear, such as cracks or fraying, and replace any damaged or worn components. Loose or misaligned belts can cause the fan to vibrate or make unusual noises, which can lead to further damage or malfunction.
• Lubricate the fan bearings: The fan bearings should be lubricated regularly to ensure that they operate smoothly and quietly. Use a high-quality lubricant that is compatible with the fan bearings, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Over-lubrication can cause the bearings to overheat, while under-lubrication can cause excessive wear and damage.
• Check the fan motor voltage and amperage: The fan motor voltage and amperage should be checked regularly to ensure that the motor is operating within the manufacturer's specifications. Use a voltmeter or ammeter to measure the voltage and amperage, and compare the readings to the specifications in the owner's manual. Any deviations from the specifications may indicate a problem with the motor or electrical system, and should be investigated further.
• Inspect the fan blades for balance: The fan blades should be inspected for balance regularly to ensure that they are not causing excessive vibration or noise. Imbalanced blades can cause uneven wear and tear, which can lead to further damage or malfunction. Use a balancing machine or a professional service to check the balance of the blades, and adjust them as necessary.
• Replace any damaged or worn components: Any damaged or worn components in the fan system should be replaced promptly to prevent further damage or malfunction. This includes the fan blades, motor, drive belts, bearings, and electrical components. Always use high-quality replacement parts that are compatible with the manufacturer's specifications.
• Keep the fan system clean and free of debris: The fan system should be kept clean and free of debris to ensure that it operates efficiently and reliably. This includes cleaning the air filters, removing any ice or frost buildup, and checking the drain lines for blockages. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent costly repairs and breakdowns, and ensure that the refrigerated vehicle is operating at peak performance.

In summary, maintaining the fan system in a refrigerated vehicle is critical for ensuring the safe and efficient transport of perishable goods. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the fan blades, checking the motor and drive belts, lubricating the fan bearings, checking the fan motor voltage and amperage, inspecting the fan blades for balance, replacing any damaged or worn components, and keeping the fan system clean and free of debris. By following these steps, you can ensure that your refrigerated vehicle operates efficiently and reliably, and that your perishable goods arrive at their destination in the best possible condition.

Keeping Cool with SPAL Fans.

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