Abstract: A method of defrosting a eutectic plate of a refrigeration system involves activating a defrost system when a power source is connected to the refrigeration system. The defrost system is operated for all or a portion of a defrost cycle and is then deactivated. The initiation of a subsequent defrost cycle is prevented until the power source has been disconnected from the refrigeration system for at least a selected amount of time. A defrost system may include a controller programmed to carry out the method and automatically initiate a series of defrost cycles.

Abstract: A vehicle eutectic plate refrigeration system provides simultaneous defrosting of part of the plate exterior surface, all of the secondary heat transfer surface and freezing of the eutectic solution within the plate. This system thus preserves sufficient space for air passage, which otherwise would be blocked by frost and ice. The system utilizes the normally rejected heat to perform a defrosting function and utilizes the ice and frost to perform the refrigerant condensing function. Hot gas from the compressor is diverted through the defrost coil where the refrigerant is for the most part condensed before it is passed through the condenser. The liquid refrigerant from the condenser is then used to freeze the eutectic solution within the plate.