Definition:Passive cooling system using phase-change materials (eutectic plates) that freeze overnight and provide cooling during operation through controlled melting.
How It Works::
1. Eutectic solution (typically salt-water mixture) has specific freezing point (-5°C to -33°C depending on formulation)
2. Plates frozen overnight in cold room or blast freezer
3. During transport, frozen plates gradually melt at their eutectic temperature, absorbing heat
4. Provides consistent temperature for 8-18 hours
Plate Formulations::
- **+2°C to +8°C**: Pharmaceutical and fresh produce
- **-5°C to 0°C**: Chilled products
- **-20°C to -18°C**: Frozen products
- **-30°C to -25°C**: Deep frozen, ice cream
- Zero emissions during operation
- Silent operation (no compressor noise)
- No fuel cost during delivery
- Mechanical simplicity (no moving parts)
- Altitude-independent (works same at any elevation)
- Excellent temperature stability
- Limited operating duration (8-18 hours typical)
- Requires nightly access to freezing facility
- Higher initial cost (R80,000-250,000 depending on vehicle size)
- Cannot adjust temperature during operation
- Limited pull-down capacity (cargo should be pre-cooled)
Advantages::
Disadvantages::
Operating Costs:: Electricity for overnight freezing only (~R30-100 per night)
Related Terms:: Phase Change Material (PCM), Cold Plate, Passive Cooling, Thermal Battery
Find Equipment:: Eutectic system manufacturers and installers