An overview of CARB's performance requirements for refrigeration units
Feb 1, 2008 12:00 PM
The Next compliance phase of the Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Gen Sets, and Facilities Where TRUs Operate begins next year. This subsequent step deals with operator requirements and TRU engine performance standards.
This regulation, from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), uses a phased-in approach during the next 15 years to reduce the diesel particulate matter (PM) emissions from TRUs and TRU generator set engines that operate in California.
Established in 1967, CARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through the effective and efficient reduction of air pollutants, while recognizing and considering the effects on the state's economy.
The regulation, commonly referred to as TRU ATCM (Transport Refrigeration Unit Airborne Toxic Control Measure), became effective on December 10, 2004. It has two parts: one-time facility reporting requirements for “large” facilities, and owner/operator requirements for TRUs and TRU gen sets that operate in California, regardless of whether their vehicles are registered in or outside of the state. This includes all carriers that transport perishable goods using diesel-powered refrigeration systems on trucks, trailers, shipping containers, and railcars.
The facility reporting requirements apply to “large” facilities in California — those with 20 or more loading dock doors — that serve refrigerated areas where perishable goods are loaded or unloaded for distribution on trucks, trailers, shipping containers, or railcars that are under facility control. One-time facility reports were due January 31, 2006.
The next phase-in of the TRU ATCM requires owners of TRU and TRU generator set engines that operate in California to meet in-use performance standards that vary by horsepower range. Compliance with these standards is phased in, starting December 31, 2008.
Owners of California-based TRU's are required to file applications for CARB Identification Numbers (IDN) by January 31, 2009. Non-California based TRUs may file, but are not required to obtain an IDN. Operators of California-based TRUs must also submit specifically identified reports to CARB by January 31, 2009
CARB estimates its TRU ATCM will reduce emissions from TRU and TRU gen set engines by approximately 65 percent in 2010, and by some 92 percent in 2020, resulting in significantly improved air quality and associated health benefits.
To get the specifics on the latest TRU ATCM compliance regarding in-use engine performance standards that vary by horsepower range, Refrigerated Transporter's editor-in-chief David A Kolman spoke with Rod Hill, a CARB staff air pollution specialist:
