5 Key Considerations for Operating an Effective Cold Storage Facility

 

If you are considering the installation of cold storage facilities in your operations, it is crucial to do a thorough research and planning. This can help conserve energy, reduce costs and minimise potential losses. Here are 5 key considerations that you should explore:

• Types of Refrigeration:

• Vapour Absorption Systems - These systems are essential for warehouses or storage facilities with access to waste heat, since it can be utilised as an energy source for refrigeration.

• Vapour Compression Systems - The choice of using vapour compression systems largely depends on available energy sources and their associated costs. For facilities other than warehouse storage, the efficiency of the compression system is preferable.

Temperature required for Storage:

1. Fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables.
2. Processed Foods like Meat & Fish. 
3. Commodities benefiting from controlled atmosphere storage.

Temperature regulation is essential for each section of cold storage and maintaining the specified temperature ranges can be achieved by placing barriers between different temperature zones. For warehouses requiring multiple temperature zones, a flexible and low risk modular insulated curtain wall system can be installed and relocated as needed.

• Door Insulation: Inadequate insulation can allow heat to infiltrate the cold storage, resulting in increased cooling costs and decreased product life. Doors are primary entry points for heat, so it is vital to use insulated doors that are quick to close, self-repairing and have a strong seal when they are closed. Industry standard cold room doors are chosen for their combination of speed, durability and exceptional insulation.

• Cold Storage Location - The location of your cold storage facility is of paramount importance. It should be strategically situated between production areas and the market, to minimise the transit times. Access to heavy transport vehicles should be convenient and the facility must have uninterrupted power supply to maintain product temperature effectively.

• Using Suitable Equipment - Cold temperature facilities rely on various tools, machines and equipment, including barcode scanners, computers, sensors, and more. These devices need to be adapted to function efficiently in low-temperature environments. Continuous exposure to cold can significantly impact battery life, leading to 40% to 50% degradation. Therefore it is advisable to use high-voltage batteries to extend their lifespan.

Cold Storage is an increasingly vital component of the supply chain. When maintained and managed efficiently, it offers benefits such as extended product shelf life and cost savings. Mechair is one of the leading post-harvest and cold chain management companies specialising in supplying multi-commodity cold storage solutions. To know more about our products and services, visit our website https://mechair.in/