Warehouse cooling is a process that removes energy from inside a warehouse building to another place, in most instances, outside, and in simple terms, is all about moving energy from the inside of a warehouse, where it’s not wanted, to the outside.
In this post we will explore the pro’s and cons of processes used and offer some practical advise on good practices used in the industry.
Warehouse cooling is generally used to protect temperature sensitive products that are stored within that may degrade if not maintained in optimal conditions- food and pharmaceuticals generally require such measures.
Other reasons for warehouse cooling include protection of machinery and personnel working in these areas. Increased productivitie can be achieved when plant and personnel are working in good conditions.
There are a number of ways to keep a warehouse cool, passive and mechanical- they all have benefits and drawbacks.
Insulation. This obviously has a massive impact on the internal temperature stability by effectively providing a buffer between to areas ie. inside and outside. Whilst this will prevent extreme conditions, it will not prevent high temperatures from building in extended hot conditions.
Thermal Mass also provides protection against temperature fluctuations and is generally used alongside lighter elements such as insulation to limit extremes.
Ventilation uses the physical properties of air to remove heat or provide cooling to occupants. In some cases, ventilation can be used to cool the building structure including thermal masses within. This is particularly effective when used at night and is also known as flushing.
Evaporative cooling, also know as adiabatic cooling uses the evaporation of water to cool air passing over it. When liquid water changes state into a vapor it uses energy which it takes for the medium around it, in this case the air passing across into a warehouse, in effect cooling it.
Mechanical cooling systems generally use HFC’s which are fluorinated refrigerant gases that are mechanically compressed and expanded to move energy. The evaporation takes place inside the building to remove heat using fans for circulation (in units known as AHU”s) whilst external units expel this heat to atmosphere.
Preserving products condition. In many cases the lifespan and condition of fresh foods can be extended in optimal condition when they are held at ideal temperatures. Other products and precessed foods will benefit in terms of maintaining their best condition. One example being chocolate in which milk solids will separate in excessive temperature conditions.
Improved working conditions for operatives. Improved productivity is achieved by maintaining working conditions at good temperatures. In terms of this, there are also statutory regulations to consider.
Increased reliability of plant and equipment is also a consideration. In hot conditions plant and machinery can become un-reliable with breakdowns seriously effecting output.
Cooling warehouses at the best of times is a challenge. Tightly packed with racking and products, achieving consistent temperatures throughout is a major concern, as is, having the cooling capacity to maintain conditions in extreme circumstances.
Sometimes using temporary systems can be a good way to correct problem areas. Portable equipment can be installed at short notice and has been found to provide good solutions. These portable temporary systems can be hired on contracted terms to suit the business’s operational needs.
Fast procurement of equipment in response to problems.
Flexible hire terms- equipment can be kept for as long as is required. Rental systems can be added to or adjusted as required.
Limit capital expenditure- No upfront capital cost for equipment, leaving additional funds for core business activities.
A full turnkey solution- Specialist companies will design, install and maintain all plant in good condition.
Reassuringly, Advanced Climate Rentals has deep understanding temporary warehouse cooling. Having worked with many clients across the UK, large and small, we have built up an extensive knowledge of the challenges around effective warehouse cooling.
We have encountered and resolved many of the issues as mentioned above and are ideally placed to react to fast paced situations.
Our temporary equipment is designed for rapid installation. Modular in design, it can be extended and adjusted as required in response to any situation.
Please take a look at our case studies to understand what can be achieved in very tight schedules.
If you have any questions or an immediate requirement please get in touch for assistance.
