Cold Storage

Industry Overview

The integrity of the cold chain depends entirely on the thermal efficiency of the facility. Pulux designs and builds state-of-the-art Cold Storage and Controlled Atmosphere (CA) facilities that minimize operating costs through superior insulation and air-tight construction.

Technical Challenges & Risks

Thermal Bridging

Any conductive path from the exterior to the interior can cause condensation, ice formation, and significant energy loss. Joints between wall panels and floors are critical vulnerability points.

Frost Heave

In deep freeze chambers (-25°C), the cold can penetrate the floor insulation and freeze the soil below, causing it to expand and heave the floor, structurally destroying the facility.

Vapor Drive

Difference in vapor pressure drives moisture into the insulation. Without a perfect vapor barrier, insulation becomes wet and useless within months.

Thermal Envelope Solutions

PUF / PIR Panels

We use high-density Polyurethane Foam (PUF) or Polyisocyanurate (PIR) panels with Cam-lock systems for walls and ceilings to ensure continuity of insulation.

• Thickness: 60mm to 200mm depending on temp setpoints.
• Fire Safety: PIR cores that are self-extinguishing (B2/B3 fire rating).
• Cladding: Pre-painted galvanized steel (PPGI) or Stainless Steel (SS304) for hygiene.

Floor Heating Systems

To prevent frost heave, we install active heating systems beneath the floor insulation slab.

• Glycol Circulation: A network of pipes circulating warm glycol fluid using waste heat from the refrigeration plant.
• Electrical Mats: Robust electrical heating cables with redundancy.
• Passive Venting: Air pipes allowing natural sub-soil ventilation for smaller facilities.

Technical Specifications

Facility Type	Temp Range	Standard Insulation	Floor Spec
Chiller Room	0°C to +8°C	60mm - 80mm PUF	Vapor Barrier + VDF
Frozen Store	-18°C to -25°C	120mm - 150mm PUF	Insulated + Heater Mat
Blast Freezer	-30°C to -40°C	150mm - 200mm PIR	Heavy Duty Reinforced
Processing Hall	+10°C to +15°C	50mm - 60mm PUF	Food Grade Epoxy