Temperature maintenance efficiency of road motorised transporters containing mangoes.
Oosthuyse S. A.
Author Affiliation: HortResearch SA, P.O. Box 3849, Tzaneen 0850, South Africa.
Yearbook - South African Mango Growers' Association 17 : 86-89
Abstract : Thermocouples were placed at various positions in the trailer of refrigerated motorized transporters (RMT's) carrying mangoes to Cape Town Harbour, South Africa, from packhouses in the Tzaneen region. Air and fruit pulp temperature rose during the period of transit by 1.5 to 2°C. Fruit pulp and air temperature differed very little, indicating that the fruits were not a source of heat. Air temperature differences existed between pallets, signifying uneven distribution of cool-air in the trailers. Floor temperature was markedly greater than pallet air temperature and oscillated with time, indicating that the trailer floor was a source of heat. The sides and ceiling of the trailers may also have been a source of heat. The data show that air temperature maintenance of the RMT's is not efficient. Enhanced air circulation within the trailer and a reduction in delivery air temperature during transit may improve the situation.