In North America, refrigerated semi-trailers are commonly used to transport large volume of produce. They are equipped with refrigeration and air circulation systems to provide an optimum transit enviromnent for the produce. Air circulation plays a vital role in maintaining produce temperature during transport. Its performance is greatly affected by the availability of air channels through and around the load. / This study is an attempt to evaluate the performance of the air circulation system. Air temperature data was gathered from 20 mixed loads of produce transported in trailers having a variety of accessories and using different loading patterns. Pearson correlation coefficient was used as an indicator to describe the air distribution inside the semi-trailers. The results showed that the air distribution inside semi-trailers is generally not uniform. In most cases, the areas that received little amount of airflow were the middle section along the length and width, and the middle and bottom sections along the height of trailers. The variability in the results precluded any determination of the effect of trailer accessories and loading patterns on the air distribution.

Thesis (MScIng)--University of Stellenbosch, 2007. / Bibliography. Also available via the Internet.

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Thesis (MScEng (Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering))--University of Stellenbosch, 2007. / A refrigerated semi-trailer was designed to solve manufacturing and operational problems. This was achieved by using advanced pultruded composites. The static and dynamic material response was determined. The dynamic loading on the vehicles was also measured and is presented along with static load cases. These boundary conditions were used in a finite element model to determine the structural performance of the trailer. The results show good static performance with some problem areas which still need attention. Initial poor fatigue performance is improved by increasing the ultimate shear stress of the material. A fatigue optimisation technique is suggested for future use.

Thesis (MEng)--University of Stellenbosch, 2000. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The finite element technique was used to do an in-depth design evaluation and optimisation of a 15.45-metre refrigerated semi-trailer. Although the emphasis is placed on finite element modelling and its application on a heavy transport vehicle, the paper covers the whole design evaluation and redesign process. Special consideration is also given to the manufacturing process as to ensure that the data generated can be implemented in an effective manner. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Eindige element spanrungs analises was gedoen op 'n 15.45-meter verkoelingsleunwa. Die doelwit was om die huidige ontwerp te evalueer en die ontwerp veral vanuit 'n koste en sterkte oogpunt te optimeer. Die fokus van hierdie tesis is die eindige element analises en ontwerpskommentaar hierop gebaseer. Die verhandeling hanteer egter die hele ontwerp en vervaardigingsproses sodat die data hierin versamel en verwerk, prakties uitgevoer kan word.