Panel van conversion

A panel van is converted from the inside: the cargo area is insulated with 50–100 mm polyurethane foam or sandwich panels, the walls are lined with FRP (fibreglass), anti-slip plywood or chequer-plate aluminium is laid on the floor, and a Carrier or Elinge refrigeration unit is mounted on the roof where required. Lead time from 4 weeks, price from 1,500,000 ₸; COND registers the conversion in the vehicle registration document.

Work:ReeferInsulated vanWall liningFloorCompleted projects

Converting a panel van into a reefer

A panel van is converted into a reefer from the inside: the walls, floor, roof and doors are covered with 50–100 mm of insulation, thermal bridges along the frame are eliminated, the walls are lined with FRP (fibreglass), anti-slip plywood is laid on the floor, and a Carrier or Elinge refrigeration unit is mounted on the roof. The insulation thickness sets the temperature mode: 50 mm — chilled 0…+6 °C, 80 mm — frozen down to −18 °C, 100 mm — frozen at +40 °C outside. The usable volume shrinks by twice the insulation thickness in each dimension. Lead time from 4 weeks, price from 1,500,000 ₸. COND registers the conversion in the vehicle registration document.

Key specifications

How much volume is lost

With 100 mm insulation the cargo area loses 200 mm in length, width and height; with 50 mm, 100 mm.

How the work is done

1. Measuring the cargo area and calculating the thickness for the temperature mode.
2. Removing the factory trim, preparing the frame.
3. Insulating the walls, roof, floor and doors; eliminating thermal bridges.
4. Lining the walls with FRP, laying anti-slip plywood or chequer-plate aluminium on the floor.
5. Mounting the refrigeration unit, running the lines.
6. Checking pull-down to temperature and temperature hold.
7. Entering the conversion in the registration document.

Van wall lining: FRP fibreglass

The cargo area walls of a panel van are lined with FRP (fibreglass) — a sheet that protects the body from cargo impacts and moisture, does not corrode and withstands regular washing. In an insulated body the lining goes over the insulation; in a dry van it is fixed to the frame. Joints are sealed, corners are finished with aluminium profiles.

Material

How the work is done

1. Measuring the cargo area.
2. Removing the factory trim (if any).
3. Cutting the sheets to size.
4. Fixing to the frame or over the insulation, sealing the joints.
5. Fitting the corner profiles.

FAQ

How much volume does a van lose after reefer conversion?

Twice the insulation thickness on each side: with 100 mm, 200 mm in length, width and height.

Which refrigeration unit is fitted to a panel van?

It is selected by volume and temperature mode: Carrier Citimax (the JAC M4 has a Citimax 280) or Elinge.

What insulation thickness is needed for frozen cargo?

80 mm — down to −18 °C in normal conditions, 100 mm — in heat up to +40 °C outside.

Does the registration document need to be changed?

Yes, a reefer conversion is recorded in the registration document. COND handles the entry.

How much does a reefer conversion cost and how long does it take?

From 1,500,000 ₸, lead time from 4 weeks. The exact price depends on the van model, insulation thickness and refrigeration unit.

What is the difference between an insulated van and a reefer?

An insulated body slows down changes in cargo temperature; a reefer holds the mode with a refrigeration unit.

Can a refrigeration unit be fitted later?

Yes, if the insulation thickness is designed for the required mode; with 50 mm, frozen transport is not possible.

How much space does the insulation take?

Twice the thickness in each dimension.

Which insulation is used?

Polyurethane foam and sandwich panels made by COND.

What should a van be lined with inside?

FRP fibreglass: it does not corrode, does not absorb moisture and withstands washing, so it suits food and pharma.

Is lining needed if the van is not insulated?

Yes: the sheet protects the body from impacts and moisture.

Can cargo securing be built into the lining?

A lashing rail is fitted flush into the wall (as on COND dry-freight bodies).

Which plywood should be laid on a van floor?

Anti-slip: the mesh texture does not slip and the laminated face does not absorb water.

Which is better — plywood or chequer-plate aluminium?

Anti-slip plywood is the standard; chequer-plate aluminium is fitted as an option when the floor is washed often and trolleys run on it.

Can cargo securing rings be fitted in the floor?

Yes — recessed and surface-mounted.