Produce giant Dole has invested in Thermo King’s Magnum units for the third year running, indicating a shift from reciprocating compressor technology to scroll compressor technology.
“Each year, Dole has increased its procurement activities in new equipment,” said Nora Beckjord, Thermo King sales director, Americas. “They have seen benefits in decreasing maintenance costs, in addition to cost savings with the faster pull-down and less fuel burned. Plus, because the scroll compressor weighs less, potential container over-weight fines can be avoided.”
Escalating fuel costs have meant banana companies have felt the pinch, and fuel prices are typically highest in the tropics, where bananas are grown. “Because the Magnum consumes as much as 30 per cent less power than other container refrigeration units, yet produces more watts of refrigeration, a great saving in power/fuel costs is achieved,” said Beckjord. “That extra refrigeration power allows faster temperature pull down, which is so important for retaining the quality and nutritional benefits of the bananas.
“The Magnum helps Dole produce and market the highest quality of fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers, and also supports Dole’s commitment to industry-leading environmental programmes by burning less fuel,” she added.
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