Very Cool: KLLM Adds 610 Refrigerated Intermodal Containers
Written by Andrew Corselli
KLLM Transport Services has added 610 domestic intermodal refrigerated containers that aim to provide “an optimized cargo capacity for its customers thanks to the use of Carrier Transicold’s thin-profile Vector™ 1550 refrigeration systems.”
The new domestic refrigerated containers are helping KLLM transport food and pharmaceuticals coast-to-coast along rail networks through 12 major hubs supported by KLLM and third-party drayage operations.
The thin-profile Vector 1550 units have the advantage of being able to carry as many pallets as a traditional 53-foot over-the-road trailer—15 pallet rows vs. 14, or 7% more cargo capacity.
The Vector 1550 unit is one of the latest versions of the all-electric trailer refrigeration technology invented by Carrier Transicold and relied upon by fleets around the world. It uses Carrier’s innovative E-Drive™ technology, in which a uniquely all-electric refrigeration system is powered by a high-output generator direct-coupled to a diesel engine.
Compared to alternative systems, Vector 1550 units are lighter and more compact, and they operate at high efficiency with lower engine speeds, producing as much as 27% more cooling per hour per RPM than its nearest competitor.
“We believe that the new slim-profile units, which give us extra pallet spaces, combined with the Carrier Transicold refrigeration technology, give us a competitive advantage,” said Jim Richards, President, KLLM.
“The Vector units overcame the capacity obstacle for us, and we’re certainly hoping to convert some of our customers to intermodal transport,” Richards added. “It’s something we are really enthusiastic about. We’re pleased with the performance thus far. The reliability has been very good, and it is a Vector product, so it gives the ability for electrical plug in.”
“Although over-the-road trucking continues to be our core business, we do see certain customers moving some volume toward intermodal, and we are positioning ourselves to support them,” Richards said, noting intermodal brings advantages related to cost and quality of service, as well as sustainability and a reduced carbon footprint. “We see this as a futuristic mode that will continue to grow.”
