CO2 refrigeration delivers for DFDS

SINGAPORE:  Danish international shipping company DFDS Logistics has purchased 50 Carrier Transicold NaturaLine refrigerated container units, using low GWP “natural” refrigerant CO2.

While DFDS considers deployment of the NaturaLINE unit as complementary to its corporate social responsibility initiatives, it was the unit’s performance during a rigorous six-month trial that is said to have sealed the deal.

Underscoring its commitment to the technology, DFDS has emblazoned each of its new 45-foot containers with the slogan “Naturally Chilled: No synthetic refrigerants – kinder to the environment.”

DFDS Logistics operates about 650 refrigerated containers and cold-chain services, including land and sea, make up about 25% of its business. Unlike containers used in ocean crossings, those enlisted into short-sea service are subject to far more handling, meaning durability and reliability are critically essential.

“It’s a fast-paced turn-around, and the containers go through a lot in just one journey,” said DFDS Logistics’ fleet manager Jack Hodgson.

The NaturaLine trial delivered frozen potato products from the United Kingdom to Holland, a four-day round trip that required 16 crane handlings as the container moved from the food processor via barge, boat and truck, through ports and terminals along the way to its destination, and then back.

“Over the six months, we had not one issue with the NaturaLine unit,” Hodgson added.

CO2’s outstanding thermal characteristics also enables the energy-efficient NaturaLine unit to achieve -40ºC, which Hodgson said may open new opportunities for DFDS with its customers.