How to predict product temperature changes during transport in an insulated box equipped with an ice pack: experimental versus 1-D and 3-D modelling approaches

Abstract An experiment was carried out to monitor food temperature changes with time in two insulated boxes equipped with an ice pack. The first experiment was carried out in a test room under well controlled ambient temperature and with a box of reinforce lateral insulation. The second experiment was in real use condition and with 2 different boxes. Two models were developed to predict product temperature changes until the ice is completely melted: an analytical 1-D and a 3-D model. The 1D model predictions are in good agreement for the first experiment. But in real use condition, the 1D model underestimates the temperature evolution, while the 3-D model gives better prediction. A comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of these two models was performed. The 1-D approach enables prediction of the main parameters (warmest temperature, ice melting time). A correction factor was proposed to improve the prediction precision using the 1-D model.