Can a Van be Modified to Have Half Refrigerated and Half Ambient Temperature Sections?
4 Answers
A van can be modified to have half refrigerated and half ambient temperature sections. Vans for preserving fruits and vegetables: The refrigerated temperature zone of 2-8 degrees Celsius can maintain the color and freshness of vegetables, fruits, eggs, beer, beverages, etc., preserving their original taste. Fruits suitable for transportation in this temperature range include grapes, apples, cherries, etc. Vans for preserving fresh produce: The 0-degree insulation zone of 0-2 degrees Celsius allows food to be stored at 0 degrees without freezing, preventing nutrient loss. It is suitable for short-term storage (1-2 days) of fresh fish and meat, ensuring they remain fresh. Foods typically stored in this temperature range include fresh meats like raw bacon and pork. Vans for preserving frozen goods: The frozen temperature zone of -18 to -21 degrees Celsius allows meat, fish, frozen foods, etc., to be stored for longer periods with faster and more durable freezing. Foods suitable for this temperature include ice cream and frozen fruits.
I've seen this issue many times, and it's completely feasible to modify a van for separate refrigerated and ambient temperature zones. The key is to implement physical separation by installing double-layer insulated partitions in the middle of the cargo area, similar to the sandwich structure of refrigerated trucks. Several friends of mine in cold chain transportation have done this modification. The common practice is to fill the partition interlayer with polyurethane insulation panels, with a minimum thickness of 8 cm. Then, a separate refrigeration unit must be installed for the refrigerated zone, with compressor power depending on the compartment size. The crucial point is to route the wiring away from the ambient zone to avoid excessive energy consumption. The partition door also needs sealing strips to prevent cold air leakage. Two temperature probes should be installed for independent control of both zones. However, I always remind them to consider weight distribution, as refrigeration equipment can add several hundred kilograms. Modification shops quote 30,000-50,000 RMB, which is still more cost-effective than buying a dual-temperature vehicle.
I've done this job twice, the key is proper zonal isolation. Use composite panels with aluminum foil edges as partitions, filled with foam in the middle, and sealant must be applied to all joints. The refrigerated side floor requires separate steel plate installation for moisture prevention, while wooden boards suffice for the ambient temperature area. Choose top-mounted refrigeration units with pipelines running along the roof to avoid damaging the main structure. Wiring is quite troublesome - new grooves need to be cut, and freeze-proof lights are mandatory for refrigerated zone illumination. Convert container doors to double-leaf type with central locking mechanism added. Don't forget pressure testing - last time we found cold leakage points after modification, costing extra ¥3,000 for resealing. Best to install temperature alarms with real-time mobile monitoring for the refrigerated compartment. Pay special attention to condensate drainage in ventilation design for the refrigerated zone.
Modification is feasible but practicality must be considered. The refrigerated area should generally not exceed one-third of the cargo space, otherwise the compressor won't handle it. XPS extruded polystyrene is the most practical material choice - fireproof and insulating. Only hire certified manufacturers, as roadside shops often produce unreliable welded brackets. For refrigeration units, I recommend electric independent systems; modifying chassis fuel tanks for power supply is accident-prone. Door hinges need reinforcement - partition installation doubles door stress. Remember to maintain service access ports for unit maintenance. Legally, vehicle registration must reflect modified parameters as transport authorities strictly inspect illegal modifications. Temperature loggers are mandatory as logistics documents require temperature control data. Upgrade battery capacity - installing auxiliary batteries dedicated to refrigeration power is more reliable.
