سردخانه زیر صفر چیست

Cold Storage Below Zero

Below zero cold storages are among the essential facilities in the food, pharmaceutical, and other industries that require keeping products at low temperatures. These storages, using advanced refrigeration systems, make it possible to preserve quality and extend the shelf life of products.
In this article from Tabadol Gostar Booran, we review the types of below zero cold storages, their operation, main components, costs, and purchase guide.

What is Below Zero Cold Storage?

Below zero cold storage is a controlled environment with extremely low temperatures designed to store various temperature-sensitive products, especially frozen foods such as meat, fish, and vegetables.

These storages, by creating temperatures much lower than the freezing point of water, stop the growth of bacteria and microorganisms and increase the shelf life of products.

In addition to the food industry, below zero cold storages also have many applications in the pharmaceutical industry, for example, for storing vaccines and temperature-sensitive medicines.

How Does Below Zero Cold Storage Work?

Below zero cold storages operate using refrigeration systems and consist of components such as compressors, condensers, evaporators, and refrigerant gases. They absorb the heat inside the cold storage and transfer it outside to maintain the desired internal temperature.

Difference Between Below Zero and Above Zero Cold Storage

Below zero cold storages are designed to store frozen products at temperatures typically ranging from -18°C to -40°C. In contrast, above zero cold storages are used to store fresh products at temperatures between 0°C and 10°C.

Another major difference between these two types of cold storage is the humidity inside the storage space. Above zero cold storages usually maintain higher humidity to prevent products from drying out, while below zero cold storages maintain lower humidity to prevent the formation of ice crystals on food products.

The table below provides more details on the differences between below zero and above zero cold storages.

Comparison Table of Below Zero and Above Zero Cold Storage

Feature
Below Zero Cold Storage
Above Zero Cold Storage
Operating Temperature
-18°C to -40°C
0°C to 10°C
Application
Storage of frozen foods (meat, fish, frozen vegetables)
Storage of fresh foods (fruits, vegetables, dairy products)
Humidity
Low (to prevent ice formation)
Medium (to maintain natural moisture of foods)
Insulation
Thicker and higher quality (to maintain very low temperatures)
Thinner compared to below zero cold storage
Refrigeration System
More powerful and complex
Simpler
Cost
Higher (due to more equipment and insulation)
Lower
Energy Consumption
Higher (to maintain very low temperatures)
Lower

Advantages of Using Below Zero Cold Storages

  • Increasing the shelf life of food and pharmaceutical products
  • Reducing waste and spoilage of perishable goods
  • Enabling high-volume product storage
  • Helping preserve the quality and nutritional value of frozen foods

Types of Below Zero Cold Storage

Below zero cold storages are divided into two categories: fixed below zero cold storages and mobile below zero cold storages.

Fixed Below Zero Cold Storage

This type of cold storage is installed in a fixed location and usually has very large dimensions. They are designed for storing high volumes of products in industries such as fruit cold storage, pharmaceutical industries, and industrial warehouses. Due to their high storage capacity, they are very suitable for long-term preservation of products.

Mobile Below Zero Cold Storages

Unlike fixed storages, these types are mounted on vehicles such as trucks and containers and are used to transport frozen products between different regions.

These storages are mostly used in the food and pharmaceutical industries where wide distribution of products is required.

سردخانه‌های صنعتی زیر صفر و کاربردهای آن

Industrial Below Zero Cold Storages

Industrial below zero cold storage is considered one of the vital facilities in various industries, playing a significant role in preserving quality and extending the life of products.

Operating at extremely low temperatures, these storages are used for storing foods such as meat, poultry, fish, and seafood, temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, agricultural products, and even biological samples.

In the food industry, these storages allow producers to keep their products fresh for longer periods and deliver them to consumers. In the pharmaceutical industry, below zero cold storages are essential for storing vaccines, temperature-sensitive medicines, and other medical products.

Design and Construction of Below Zero Cold Storage

To properly design and build a below zero cold storage for keeping temperature-sensitive products at low temperatures, specific engineering principles and standards must be carefully implemented.

This process should be carried out step by step:

    1. Determine the temperature requirements and capacity of the cold storage.
    2. Select suitable equipment such as a cold storage compressor, evaporator, and thermal insulation.
    3. Design ventilation and temperature control systems.
    4. Execute and implement with careful installation and commissioning of equipment and inspection of insulation and connections.
    5. Conduct performance tests and regular maintenance of the cold storage to extend the service life of the equipment.

Stages of Below Zero Cold Storage Design

To further explain the design phase of below zero cold storage, it begins with determining the capacity and dimensions of the storage. Here, the specific needs of the client must be identified based on the type and volume of products to be stored.

After that, the selection of the appropriate refrigeration system—whether compression or absorption—takes place. The choice depends on cost, efficiency, and environmental conditions.

Next, the design of the insulation structure and walls is carried out to prevent energy loss and maintain the internal temperature. The insulation must be selected to perform effectively at sub-zero temperatures.

Finally, determining control equipment and safety systems to monitor temperature and pressure, as well as to prevent accidents and product damage, is a critical step in the design of below zero cold storage.

These steps together ensure the creation of an efficient and safe cold storage.

Execution of Below Zero Cold Storage and Required Standards

In the execution phase of below zero cold storage (which requires compliance with necessary international standards for product storage), special attention must be paid to the safety and quality of products. This means adhering strictly to standards relating to temperature, humidity, and hygiene.

Using high-quality, high-efficiency equipment such as compressors, evaporators, and insulation systems is also necessary to ensure performance and reduce energy costs.

Additionally, ensuring the proper performance of refrigeration systems through correct installation, regular maintenance, and periodic testing helps extend equipment lifespan and prevents problems during storage operations.

All these factors together lead to the creation of an efficient and safe below zero cold storage.

Construction of Below Zero Cold Storage and Key Technical Points

For constructing below zero cold storage with the highest technical standards and energy efficiency, trust the expertise of Tabadol Gostar Booran. From design to full execution, we accompany you to provide the best solution for safe product storage.

احداث سردخانه زیر صفر

Components of Below Zero Cold Storage

Cold Storage Compressor

The compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant gas and transferring it to the condenser. It acts as the heart of the refrigeration system and has a major impact on the overall efficiency of the cold storage.

Cold Storage Condenser

The condenser transfers the absorbed heat from the refrigerant gas to the outside environment and converts the refrigerant into liquid. This process helps reduce temperature and maintain optimal conditions inside the cold storage.

Cold Storage Evaporator

The evaporator absorbs the heat inside the cold storage and reduces the internal temperature. It plays a key role in creating the right temperature conditions for product preservation.

Cold Storage Electrical Panel

The electrical panel manages and controls the power supply to the cold storage equipment. This system optimizes equipment performance and enhances operational safety.

Temperature Control System

Digital and mechanical systems are used to precisely regulate temperature and prevent fluctuations. These systems significantly contribute to maintaining product quality and improving cold storage efficiency.

Equipment Used in Below Zero Cold Storage

Insulation Systems and Cold Storage Walls

Using polyurethane panels and high-quality insulation materials for the walls of below zero cold storage is essential. These insulations help reduce energy loss and maintain the internal temperature of the storage, thereby reducing operating costs.

Control Equipment and Digital Temperature Displays

Using polyurethane panels and high-quality insulation materials for the walls of below zero cold storage is essential. These insulations help reduce energy loss and maintain the internal temperature of the storage, thereby reducing operating costs.

Flooring and Special Doors for Below Zero Cold Storages

Moisture- and cold-resistant floors are very important to prevent damage to the cold storage structure and maintain temperature. Also, leak-proof doors with proper insulation prevent energy loss and increase the efficiency of the cold storage.

Costs and Price of Below Zero Cold Storage

Factors Affecting the Price of Below Zero Cold Storage

Several factors affect the price of below zero cold storages, from capacity and dimensions—which are among the most important—to the type and quality of equipment used, such as compressors, condensers, and evaporators.

The cost of installing and implementing refrigeration systems, the level of insulation used in the storage structure, along with the type of construction materials, are also determining factors in the final price of these facilities.

Maintenance Costs of Below Zero Cold Storages

The maintenance costs of below zero cold storages include energy and electricity expenses, which are usually high due to the continuous operation of refrigeration systems.

In addition, repairing and maintaining refrigeration equipment is essential to ensure optimal performance and extend the useful life of the cold storage.

However, regular inspection and monitoring of system performance are crucial factors in reducing potential costs and preventing unexpected breakdowns.

Buying Guide for Below Zero Cold Storage

When purchasing a below zero cold storage, attention must be paid to capacity, type of refrigeration system, level of insulation, required standards, and execution costs. If you are looking for a high-quality cold storage that complies with modern standards, Tabadol Gostar Booran experts are ready to provide specialized consultation and guide you in choosing the best option. Contact us for more information and free consultation.

Conclusion

Below zero cold storages play an important role in preserving and maintaining the quality of food and pharmaceutical products. Proper selection and implementation of these storages can reduce waste, extend product shelf life, and improve efficiency in related industries. Therefore, investing in the design, construction, and optimal maintenance of below zero cold storages not only enhances the quality and safety of food and pharmaceutical products but also reduces operating costs and increases business productivity. Using modern technologies in insulation, temperature control, and energy management systems can improve the performance of these storages and meet the diverse needs of various industries in the best possible way.

Table of Contents

Our Experts Are With You

If you need consultation or want to start a project, contact us through the form below. Our support team is proud to respond to all your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Below Zero Cold Storage

Answers to the most common questions you ask Tabadol Gostar Booran experts:

1. Can below zero cold storages be custom designed?

Yes, below zero cold storages can be custom designed to meet specific customer needs and product types.

Various refrigerant gases such as R404A and R134A are used in below zero cold storages, and their selection depends on system requirements and environmental regulations.

Yes, below zero cold storages require constant electricity to maintain the right temperature, and it is recommended to use backup power systems as well.

The storage duration depends on the type of product; some food items can be stored for several months or even years at sub-zero temperatures.

Our Products