The new Permalogic Selector system from Phillips Industries (www.phillipsind.com) is an intelligent controller that chooses the optimal source of power to fully charge liftgate batteries without the risk of draining power needed for other vital equipment functions.

For reefer fleets, it automatically selects between the tractor (via dual pole) or the trailer’s reefer unit as the source of power to continuously charge the liftgate batteries to capacity. The tractor is always the primary source of charge, but if the tractor voltage drops to 12.2 volts, the Permalogic Selector will shut off this source to eliminate any low-voltage starting issues. The system uses the reefer as the power source if it’s operating correctly and producing more than 13.2 volts.  The system will automatically shut off if it senses a problem with the reefer’s electrical system and will not cause any out-of-balance issues with either the reefer unit or the tractor.
 
“In today’s environment where fleets are looking for ways to reduce idle times, [frequent] engine shutoffs can negatively affect the ability to keep the liftgate batteries charged for trailers with high-duty-cycle liftgates,” explains Bruce Purkey, president of Purkey’s Electrical Consultants (www.purkeysfleetelectric.com), who helped develop this product. “Phillips wanted to develop a product that could automatically select the best source to recharge the liftgate battery and, at the same time, manage power to start the engine, run the refrigeration unit, and maintain the integrity of the electrical system.”