Standard for Performance Rating of Mechanical Transport Refrigeration Units

Standard 1110: Standard for Performance Rating of Mechanical Transport Refrigeration Units

For engineers and designers in the transportation and refrigeration sectors, ensuring reliable and precisely rated performance of mechanical transport refrigeration units is paramount. ARI's Standard 1110 provides the authoritative framework for achieving this, offering a proven method to standardize performance claims and foster confidence in cold chain integrity.

What is Standard 1110?

ARI Standard 1110, "Standard for Performance Rating of Mechanical Transport Refrigeration Units," is a comprehensive engineering document originating from the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI). Its primary purpose is to establish uniform definitions, testing procedures, and rating criteria for mechanical refrigeration systems designed for use in transport vehicles. This ensures that performance data published by manufacturers is consistent and comparable.

Scope & Purpose

This industry-leading standard governs the testing and performance rating of encased, direct-expansion vapor compression type mechanical transport refrigeration units. Its scope specifically includes units comprising a compressor, condenser, refrigerant flow controls, forced-circulation air-cooler, base, prime mover, and power train. The standard aims to provide clear guidelines for establishing Net Refrigerating Capacity under defined conditions, distinguishing between high-temperature (above 25°F) and low-temperature (below 25°F) service. It does not, however, address safety standards or installation practices.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Mechanical Engineers, Test Engineers, Product Managers, Quality Assurance Engineers, and HVAC Technicians involved in the design, testing, and specification of transport refrigeration systems.
• • Industries affected: Transportation, Refrigeration Manufacturing, Logistics, Cold Chain Management, and Food Distribution.
• • Compliance nature: While ARI standards are typically voluntary for manufacturers to adopt for certification, compliance is strongly recommended for those seeking to participate in ARI's certification programs and to ensure product comparability.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is primarily verified through participation in the ARI Certification Program, which involves independent testing and review of published ratings.

Key Requirements Overview

Professionals working with Standard 1110 will encounter several essential requirements:

• • The standard mandates precise definitions for key terms, ensuring a common understanding of technical specifications.
• • It outlines rigorous test requirements, including detailed methodologies like the Calibrated-Box and Isothermal-Box methods, to accurately measure unit performance.
• • Professionals must ensure that published ratings for cooling capacity (high and low temperature, including electric standby) adhere to the specified rating conditions.
• • Key provisions include minimum data requirements for published ratings and specific marking and nameplate data that must be displayed on the units.
• • The standard also defines operating requirements and conformance conditions to ensure that tested performance is representative of actual operating environments.

Related Standards & References

Standard 1110 often works in conjunction with broader HVAC and refrigeration standards. While the source document references ASHRAE terminology for definitions, other ARI standards or industry best practices related to refrigerant handling, system design, and energy efficiency may complement its application. For detailed testing protocols, Appendices C and D of the standard provide normative references to specific testing methods.