The construction of a refrigerated or frozen warehouse is a complex project, where each of the steps must be carefully studied. Before embarking on such a construction project, it is necessary to evaluate the different options available to us, with specialists and qualified people.
Two distinct types
Cold storage is divided into two main categories. There are cold stores designed to keep products at temperatures above freezing (or refrigerated type). Then, cold stores designed to keep products at temperatures below freezing (or frozen type).
“Refrigerated” warehouse
In the family of refrigerated warehouses, we find air-conditioned warehouses which are designed to stay below a maximum temperature during the heat of summer. Generally, a regular warehouse can be used as an air-conditioned warehouse, although better insulation often provides superior performance.
“Frozen” warehouse
Storage at sub-zero temperatures is more complex. There are several sub-categories:
The blast freezer which is often used in a smaller space inside a large freezer. This is the option usually chosen to quickly lower the temperature of products before storing them in a long-term freezer.
The long-term freezer which is used for warehouses with very little product movement.
The distribution center freezer which is often used in warehouses housing several product lines, requiring multiple inbound and outbound movements. This option requires more refrigeration capacity, mainly on the receiving and shipping docks.
Construction requirements
The construction of a refrigerated warehouse has an impact on the floors, roof, walls, separation between freezer and cooler, and loading docks.
For the design of the refrigeration system, it will be necessary to take into account the type of products, the desired temperature, the height of the building, the layout of the storage systems, etc.
Green solutions
The majority of customers today turn to a green and sustainable system that can be chosen according to the company’s preferences, values and budget. The three main refrigeration solutions are: an ammonia (NH3) system, a CO2 system or a combined system – ammonia (NH3) and CO2 – in cascades.
Before embarking on such a construction project, it is important to carefully consider all the options available to you and determine the one that best suits the needs of your company and your products.
The constraints related to the agri-food construction industry are numerous. As experts in the execution of work in a sterile environment and by entrusting us with your project, you ensure a rigorous realization, respecting your requirements.
By Martin Beauséjour.
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