Reefer storage and shipping — that is, shipping refrigerated or perishable goods — is highly important for the American economy. If you’re a trucker, odds are you’ve transported at least a few reefer containers from time to time.
But you might not know how those containers stay powered and refrigerated. It’s all thanks to gensets. Today, let’s break down what a genset is, how it works, and why it’s important.
What Is a Genset?
Put simply, a genset or “generator set” is an external or separate combination of a generator and engine. A genset is comprised of two components: the generator or alternator and the engine. The engine runs on fuel or some type of electricity to drive the generator, providing electricity to equipment like the refrigeration unit of a reefer container.
A genset works like any other generator. A diesel generator for diesel engines converts mechanical energy into electrical power to operate as a power source for control panels, refrigeration units, and more.
A genset can be used as a primary or backup power source during power outages. Most gensets are equipped with automatic transfer switches, enabling them to swap places with another electric generator for greater fuel efficiency or other reasons depending on power generation.
Many diesel gensets are used as primary power centers instead of backup generators, at least until reefer units get plugged into other electrical currents. Diesel gas generators aren’t the most fuel-efficient, but they’re reliable sources of chemical energy.
When Are Gensets Used?
Since they are external generators, gensets power refrigeration units for reefer containers whenever the containers are stored or transported on vessels like trucks or trains. When a reefer container can’t be plugged into an external power grid, a genset is used to ensure the reefer stays refrigerated and powered.
What Are the Three Types of Gensets?
There are three primary types of gensets you might encounter or need to use. Let’s take a closer look at each.
Clip-On Gensets
Clip-on gensets are usually installed directly on reefer containers, typically mounted toward the back and next to the refrigeration unit. These have titular clip-on mechanisms that allow users to install them easily.
Clip-on gensets are usually ideal if several reefer containers are transported by multiple transportation methods, like sea, road, and rail vehicles. Note that clip-on generators are also ideal when reefer containers can’t be plugged into warehouse or facility power grids for one reason or another.
What Are the Features of Clip-On Gensets?
Clip-on gensets are characterized by features like:
- They are installed directly onto refers
- They are the most commonly used gensets
- They feature easy-to-use, clip-on mechanisms
Integral Gensets
Integral gensets are usually built into reefer containers. You can typically find them toward the back of reefer containers, usually underneath or above the refrigeration unit. Integral reefer containers offer reduced payload capacity, but they ensure that you can always access an independent and self-powered energy supply when needed.
These gensets aren’t usually used in sea-based shipping since they restrict internal volume and can be somewhat longer in size than average.
What Are the Features of Integral Gensets?
Internal gensets are primarily characterized by features including:
- They are built into containers
- They aren’t commonly used for shipping
- They’re ideal for long-term reefer storage
Undermount Gensets
Undermount gensets are, as their name suggests, installed underneath a truck container chassis. They’re also sometimes called underslung gensets. Undermount gensets are air-cooled and primarily powered by diesel fuel.
Undermount gensets can provide continuous power to reefer container refrigeration units, ensuring that any cargo in the containers stays cooled during the transit process.
What Are the Features of Undermount Gensets?
Undermount gensets are characterized by a few key features, including:
- They are mounted underneath trailers
- They are usually diesel powered
- They are often used for trucking containers as opposed to other shipping containers
Genset FAQs
Want to learn more about gensets and how they work? Check out these FAQs for a few extra details.
How Do Gensets Work on Reefer Containers?
All gensets start with an engine, usually powered by diesel fuel. The engine burns diesel fuel, which makes rotational energy to power the generator and provides electricity. The rotational energy changes into electricity by spinning a coil within a magnetic field.
That electricity is then used to power refrigeration coils and other components. Think of gensets as generators specifically designed to provide power to refrigeration units instead of other components.
How Much Fuel Do Gensets Require?
The fuel consumption of any given genset will vary depending on the type of the model, the age, the setting or mode, and what power load the genset is under. On average, a genset will consume between two and four liters of fuel per hour to provide electricity to a standard reefer refrigeration unit.
The “load” is how much electricity is consumed or required by the genset. Generally, if a reefer has to be kept at a lower temperature or if the reefer has to be refrigerated in high ambient temperatures, the genset will consume more electricity and consume fuel more quickly.
What Are the Most Popular Genset Brands?
There are several popular gensets brands used in the shipping industry, and you may prefer one or the other due to factors like price or reliability. Some popular genset brands include:
- Almar, founded in 1988
- Carrier, founded in 1915
- Thermo King, founded in 1938
Bottom Line
Gensets are vital pieces of equipment that allow reefer containers to function properly and stay refrigerated even while on the go. Your truck might need to be equipped with a genset if you plan to haul reefer containers regularly.
RPM can help you acquire this equipment and plan your next routes much more efficiently. It’s just another way how we support freight drivers just like you. Contact us today to learn more.
Sources:
What is a reefer container and how does it work..? | Shipping and Freight Resource
Perishables | IATA.org
How Does a Refrigerator Work? | Real Simple
