Press Release 

Thermo King Launches SLXe-300 Ferry for Growing Mid- and Long-Haul Ferry Market

14th May 2012

Thermo King is introducing an additional version of the model SLX 300 refrigeration unit to provide increased refrigeration capacity, optimum cargo load protection and better shock protection for the growing mid- and long-haul ferry market. This solution also minimizes fuel consumption for a lower operating cost and increases food safety and precision temperature control.

Thermo King, a manufacturer of temperature control systems for a variety of mobile applications and a brand of Ingersoll Rand, designed the SLXe-300 Ferry to meet the specific needs of this market. The increase in diesel fuel prices and European Union investment in ferry route development and expansion are both contributing to the rapid growth of this market.

Better protection against shocks
The SLXe-300 Ferry offers better protection against shocks which may occur when trailers are transferred from the port docks onto the ferry (and vice versa) via ro-ro ramps. Thermo King has developed the following solutions to reduce shocks:

  • A specifically reinforced panel cabinet features thicker doors and flexible latches
  • An easy-to-install protection bar kit provides optimum shock protection volume

Increased refrigeration capacity 
The SLXe-300 Ferry offers increased refrigeration capacity while operating in electric mode. An electric mode drive system has been developed and qualified which takes into consideration the specific needs of mid- and long-haul ferry markets, including:

  • Longer operation time
  • Various power supplies encountered on board ferry vessels
  • Specific operating conditions in lower decks (with high ambient temperatures).

In order to guarantee that cargo temperature is maintained throughout various operating conditions, the SLXe-300 Ferry features an oversized electric motor (with 58 percent higher output in 50Hz). The unit is also specifically designed to reduce mechanical stress at start up. The oversized electric motor provides increased refrigeration capacity while operating in electric power mode.

The SLXe-300 Ferry features an absorbed glass material Eon battery which offers up to five times the battery life of a standard battery. The battery also has a longer shelf life; it can be stored up to two years without requiring a recharge. The extended battery life and longer shelf life help ensure restart when needed, considerably reducing the risk of emergency repair and associated cargo load loss.

This solution can be also customized with a wide range of accessories to ensure maximum dependability (fuel monitoring and filtration system) and cargo temperature traceability devices. It also features the TracKing remote temperature and vehicle management tool system to ensure monitoring especially when the trailer is unaccompanied.

For more information, please contact Heidi McGuire.