
Direct-Drive TRUs
HD-380 Direct-Drive Transport Refrigeration Unit
Direct-drive transport refrigeration unit for 5–12 m³ refrigerated bodies, available with front-, roof- and bottom-mounted condenser configurations. Rated cooling capacity: 3,850 W at 0°C and 1,800 W at -20°C under 30°C ambient conditions.
Specifications
- Material
- Recycled nylon ripstop
- Closure
- YKK coil zipper
- Use
- Tech, travel, and small repair kits
HD-380 Direct-Drive Transport Refrigeration Unit
Flexible front, roof and bottom mounting configurations for 5–12 m³ refrigerated bodies
The BlackShields HD-380 is a direct-drive transport refrigeration unit designed for refrigerated bodies from 5 to 12 m³.
With three condenser mounting configurations — front mount, roof mount and bottom mount — the HD-380 gives refrigerated body builders and vehicle integrators greater flexibility when condenser position, vehicle height, front-wall space or underbody layout affects installation.
Under a 30°C ambient test condition, the HD-380 provides a rated cooling capacity of:
- 3,850 W at 0°C
- 1,800 W at -20°C
The unit is designed for box temperatures down to -25°C.
HD-380 at a Glance
Specification | HD-380 |
|---|---|
Refrigeration architecture | Direct-drive / vehicle-powered |
Recommended refrigerated body volume | 5–12 m³ |
Minimum box temperature | -25°C |
Cooling capacity at 0°C | 3,850 W |
Cooling capacity at -20°C | 1,800 W |
Rated ambient condition | 30°C |
Compressor | QP16 |
Compressor displacement | 163 cm³ |
Evaporator airflow | 1,500 m³/h |
Refrigerant | R404A |
Defrost | Automatic + manual forced defrost |
Condenser configurations | Front / Roof / Bottom |
Optional functions | Heating / Remote control |
Dual-temperature option | Available on the front-mount configuration according to the current product specification |
Cooling-capacity figures above are based on the specified 30°C ambient condition. Actual system selection should consider the complete vehicle and operating application.
One Refrigeration Platform, Three Mounting Options
A transport refrigeration unit should not be selected by cooling capacity alone.
For refrigerated body builders and vehicle integrators, where the condenser can be installed may be just as important as the nominal refrigeration capacity.
The HD-380 is available with three condenser layouts to accommodate different vehicle packaging requirements.
1. Front-Mount HD-380
The front-mounted configuration positions the condenser on the front wall of the refrigerated body.
This configuration may be considered when the vehicle and body design provide suitable front-wall installation space and condenser airflow.
Front-Mount Specifications
Item | Specification |
|---|---|
Condenser dimensions | 1,078 × 489 × 388 mm |
Condenser weight | 35 kg |
Evaporator dimensions | 994 × 558 × 200 mm |
Evaporator weight | 15 kg |
Refrigerant charge | 2.0 kg |
Electrical supply | DC 12/24 V |
Rated current | 40 / 24.6 A |
Optional functions | Heating / Remote control / Dual-temperature |
2. Roof-Mount HD-380
The roof-mounted configuration places the condenser on top of the refrigerated body.
It provides another installation option where the vehicle/body layout favors roof installation rather than a conventional front-mounted condenser.
Roof-Mount Specifications
Item | Specification |
|---|---|
Condenser dimensions | 980 × 825 × 180 mm |
Condenser weight | 25 kg |
Evaporator dimensions | 994 × 558 × 200 mm |
Evaporator weight | 15 kg |
Refrigerant charge | 1.2 kg |
Electrical supply | DC 12 V |
Rated current | 31 A |
Optional functions | Heating / Remote control |
3. Bottom-Mount HD-380
The bottom-mounted configuration positions the condenser underneath the vehicle/body installation area.
It can be considered where the body builder wants to keep the front wall or roof available, subject to sufficient underbody installation space, airflow and service clearance.
Bottom-Mount Specifications
Item | Specification |
|---|---|
Condenser dimensions | 726 × 242 × 411 mm |
Condenser weight | 25 kg |
Evaporator dimensions | 994 × 558 × 200 mm |
Evaporator weight | 15 kg |
Refrigerant charge | 1.8 kg |
Electrical supply | DC 12/24 V |
Rated current | 37 / 23 A |
Optional functions | Heating / Remote control |
Compare the Three HD-380 Configurations
| Front Mount | Roof Mount | Bottom Mount |
|---|---|---|---|
Recommended body volume | 5–12 m³ | 5–12 m³ | 5–12 m³ |
Cooling capacity @ 0°C | 3,850 W | 3,850 W | 3,850 W |
Cooling capacity @ -20°C | 1,800 W | 1,800 W | 1,800 W |
Rated ambient | 30°C | 30°C | 30°C |
Minimum box temperature | -25°C | -25°C | -25°C |
Evaporator airflow | 1,500 m³/h | 1,500 m³/h | 1,500 m³/h |
Refrigerant | R404A | R404A | R404A |
Refrigerant charge | 2.0 kg | 1.2 kg | 1.8 kg |
Condenser weight | 35 kg | 25 kg | 25 kg |
Heating option | Available | Available | Available |
Remote control | Available | Available | Available |
Dual-temperature | Available* | — | — |
*Dual-temperature is listed as an option in the current front-mount HD-380 specification. Confirm the required configuration with BlackShields before ordering.
Cooling Performance
The HD-380 provides two published reference cooling-capacity points under a 30°C ambient condition:
At 0°C
3,850 W cooling capacity
At -20°C
1,800 W cooling capacity
This difference is important when selecting a transport refrigeration unit.
A cooling-capacity value should always be evaluated together with the corresponding operating condition. A capacity quoted at 0°C should not be treated as equivalent to the unit's capacity at -20°C.
For this reason, BlackShields recommends reviewing the actual refrigerated-body and operating requirements before confirming a model.
Refrigeration System
QP16 Compressor
The HD-380 uses a QP16 compressor with 163 cm³ displacement.
As a direct-drive transport refrigeration system, compressor operation is driven from the vehicle rather than from a separate self-powered diesel engine.
This architecture is intended for applications where a vehicle-powered refrigeration system is appropriate for the required body size, refrigeration load and operating profile.
Evaporator Airflow
The HD-380 evaporator provides a rated airflow of:
1,500 m³/h
Correct evaporator positioning and unobstructed airflow inside the refrigerated body should be considered during body design and installation.
The evaporator measures:
994 × 558 × 200 mm
with a listed weight of:
15 kg
Automatic and Manual Defrost
The HD-380 supports automatic defrost as well as manual forced defrost.
The front-mounted specification identifies the automatic function as hot-gas defrost.
Defrost operation helps manage frost accumulation on the evaporator during low-temperature refrigeration operation.
Major Refrigeration Components
The HD-380 refrigeration system uses components from BlackShields and specified refrigeration-component suppliers.
Key listed components include:
Compressor
QP16
163 cm³ displacement.
Expansion Valve
Danfoss
Used for refrigerant-flow regulation within the refrigeration circuit.
Suction Pressure Regulating Valve
Danfoss
Included in the published HD-380 component configuration.
Sight Glass
Sanhua
Provides visual refrigerant-condition indication.
Oil Separator
BlackShields
Integrated into the refrigeration circuit.
Solenoid Valve
Depending on the configuration, the published specifications list Danfoss and/or Sanhua components.
Pressure Switches
Sensata
Two pressure switches are listed in the HD-380 configuration.
Condenser
BlackShields
Uses a parallel-flow heat-exchanger core according to the product specification.
Evaporator
BlackShields
Uses internally grooved copper tubing and heat-transfer fins according to the product specification.
Controller
BlackShields
Vehicle-grade components are specified for the control box.
Which HD-380 Mounting Configuration Should You Choose?
The three versions share the same published core cooling-capacity figures, but their installation requirements are different.
The correct choice should therefore consider the complete vehicle layout.
Consider Front Mount When:
The refrigerated-body front wall provides appropriate installation space and airflow for the condenser.
Consider Roof Mount When:
The vehicle/body architecture favors condenser installation on the roof and the additional roof installation dimensions are acceptable for the complete vehicle.
Consider Bottom Mount When:
Front-wall or roof space needs to remain available and the vehicle provides sufficient underbody installation, airflow and maintenance clearance.
Before confirming any configuration, check:
- Vehicle type
- Refrigerated-body dimensions
- Available mounting space
- Condenser airflow
- Evaporator location
- Refrigerant hose routing
- Electrical supply
- Service access
- Required optional functions
How to Select the Correct Transport Refrigeration Unit
Although the HD-380 is specified for 5–12 m³ refrigerated bodies, box volume should not be the only selection criterion.
A proper TRU selection should also consider:
1. Box Dimensions
Provide internal:
- Length
- Width
- Height
2. Required Temperature
Tell us whether the application requires chilled or frozen operation and the required setpoint.
3. Cargo
Different cargo and loading conditions create different refrigeration loads.
4. Loading Temperature
Transport refrigeration equipment should be evaluated according to the actual cargo thermal load and operating requirements.
5. Ambient Temperature
The published HD-380 cooling-capacity data above is specified at a 30°C ambient condition.
Applications at different ambient conditions require technical review rather than assuming identical performance.
6. Insulation
Provide the insulation material and thickness where available.
7. Door-Opening Frequency
Frequent delivery stops and door openings introduce additional warm-air load into the refrigerated body.
8. Vehicle and Installation Layout
Confirm available space for:
- Condenser
- Evaporator
- Compressor drive
- Refrigerant piping
- Electrical system
- Maintenance access
Optional Functions
Depending on the HD-380 configuration, available options listed in the current technical documentation include:
Heating
Available as an option.
Remote Control
Available as an option.
Dual-Temperature Configuration
Listed as an option for the front-mounted HD-380 configuration.
If your refrigerated body requires two temperature zones, send BlackShields the dimensions and target temperature of each compartment for configuration review.
Installation Dimensions
Detailed condenser and evaporator installation drawings are available for the:
- HD-380 Front-Mount
- HD-380 Roof-Mount
- HD-380 Bottom-Mount
Body builders and vehicle integrators should confirm installation dimensions, clearances and mounting requirements before finalizing the refrigerated-body design.
Need installation drawings for your vehicle project? Contact BlackShields with your preferred HD-380 mounting configuration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size refrigerated body is the HD-380 designed for?
The current HD-380 technical specifications list a recommended refrigerated-body volume of 5–12 m³.
Final selection should also consider target temperature, ambient temperature, insulation, cargo load, door-opening frequency and vehicle operating conditions.
What is the cooling capacity of the HD-380?
Under the published 30°C ambient condition, rated cooling capacity is:
- 3,850 W at 0°C
- 1,800 W at -20°C
Cooling capacity should always be compared at the relevant operating condition.
What is the minimum box temperature?
The published minimum refrigerated-body temperature is -25°C.
Actual application suitability should be confirmed according to the complete refrigeration load and operating profile.
Is the HD-380 a direct-drive refrigeration unit?
Yes.
The HD-380 is a vehicle-powered/direct-drive transport refrigeration system using a QP16 compressor with 163 cm³ displacement.
Is the HD-380 available in different mounting configurations?
Yes.
The HD-380 is available with:
- Front-mounted condenser
- Roof-mounted condenser
- Bottom-mounted condenser
The refrigeration performance figures are common across the current published specifications, while condenser dimensions, refrigerant charge and electrical specifications vary by configuration.
Does the HD-380 support automatic defrost?
Yes.
The current specifications list automatic defrost and manual forced defrost. The front-mounted specification identifies the automatic system as hot-gas defrost.
Can the HD-380 provide heating?
Heating is listed as an optional function for the current HD-380 configurations.
Confirm the required configuration before ordering.
Is a dual-temperature HD-380 available?
The current front-mounted HD-380 specification lists dual-temperature operation as an available option.
For a two-compartment application, provide the compartment dimensions and required temperature of each zone for technical review.
Can I select the HD-380 only from box volume?
We do not recommend selecting a transport refrigeration unit from box volume alone.
For a more accurate model review, provide:
- Vehicle type
- Internal box dimensions
- Insulation
- Cargo
- Loading temperature
- Target temperature
- Maximum ambient temperature
- Door-opening frequency
- Route pattern
- Electrical system
- Preferred condenser mounting position
Request an HD-380 Application Review
Not sure whether the HD-380 is the right refrigeration unit for your vehicle?
Send us:
- Country / market
- Vehicle type
- Internal box dimensions (L × W × H)
- Insulation material and thickness
- Cargo
- Cargo loading temperature
- Required box temperature
- Maximum ambient temperature
- Number of delivery stops / door openings
- Vehicle electrical system
- Preferred condenser position
- Required options
- Estimated quantity
BlackShields will review the application before recommending the appropriate transport refrigeration configuration.
Product: BlackShields HD-380 Direct-Drive Transport Refrigeration Unit