A cold storage cool room, often referred to as a cold room or cold storage facility, is a controlled environment designed to maintain low temperatures for the storage of perishable goods, such as food, pharmaceuticals, or other temperature-sensitive items. These rooms are used to extend the shelf life of products by slowing down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, preserving the quality and freshness of the stored items.

Design Considerations

Designing a cold storage cool room requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure optimal performance, energy efficiency, and the preservation of the stored items.

Temperature Requirements

Identify the specific temperature range needed for the stored products. Different items may require different temperature conditions, and the cool room's design should accommodate these requirements.

Insulation

Choose high-quality insulation materials to minimize heat transfer between the interior and exterior of the cool room. Proper insulation helps maintain a stable and consistent temperature, reducing energy consumption. EPS and PIR Panels

• Kingspan
• Askin
• Metecno
• Bondor

Refrigeration System

Select an appropriate refrigeration system based on the size of the cool room and the temperature requirements. Consider factors such as energy efficiency, reliability, and ease of maintenance.

Doors and Seals

Install tightly sealed doors with efficient gaskets to prevent air leaks. Automatic door-closing systems can minimize the time the door is open, reducing temperature fluctuations.

Ventilation and Air Circulation

Ensure proper air circulation within the cool room to maintain uniform temperatures throughout the space. Consider the placement of vents and fans to achieve optimal airflow.

Humidity Control

Depending on the stored items, humidity control may be necessary. Include systems to regulate and monitor humidity levels to prevent issues such as condensation and freezer burn.

Flooring

Choose flooring materials that are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture. Non-slip surfaces are essential to enhance safety, especially in areas where water may be present. Insulated and heated floors.

Shelving and Racking

Design the interior layout with efficient shelving and racking systems to maximize storage capacity while allowing for proper air circulation around stored items.

Lighting

Use energy-efficient lighting that produces minimal heat. LED lighting is a popular choice as it generates less heat and consumes less energy than traditional lighting options.

Monitoring and Control Systems

Implement a reliable monitoring and control system to track temperature, humidity, and other critical parameters. This system should provide alerts in case of deviations from the desired conditions.

Energy Efficiency

Consider energy-efficient practices and equipment to minimize operational costs. This may include the use of energy-efficient refrigeration systems, insulation, and lighting.

Compliance with Regulations

The design must comply with local and international regulations and standards for cold storage facilities, health and safety requirements, as well as any specific regulations related to the stored products.

• The National Construction Code (NCC) 
• Buliding Code of Australia (BCA)
• Insulated Panel Council Australasia Ltd (IPCA Ltd)
• FM Global

By carefully addressing these considerations during the design phase, you can create a cold storage cool room that meets the specific needs of the stored items while operating efficiently and cost-effectively.

Cool Room Shop Drawings The creation of shop drawings is essential when precision and efficiency are required in the design and installation of cool rooms and freezers. These drawings offer specific information about each insulated panel, details that are not encompassed in the overall project design. By illustrating the exact requirements, dimensions, and designs for each panel, shop drawings enhance the working drawings. In comparison to the project documents, shop drawings provide more comprehensive insights into the specifics of each panel and its interaction and integration with other building elements. The significance of shop drawings extends to preventing construction issues and delays. They play a crucial role in identifying and resolving conflicts between different building elements before the contractor commences work on-site. Furthermore, shop drawings supply precise measurements for the fabrication and delivery of panels, along with clear instructions for their positioning and installation at the construction site. These drawings encompass construction details for all joints and connections to ensure a seamless integration with other building components.
	Connection of Insulated Panels The connection between insulated wall panels and ceiling panels in a cool room is crucial to the thermal integrity of the cool room. Temperature Consistency Properly connected panels help maintain a consistent temperature within the cool room. Gaps or poorly sealed joints between the wall and ceiling panels could allow the exchange of air, leading to temperature variations and potentially compromising the integrity of the cold storage. Energy Efficiency A tight connection between wall and ceiling panels contributes to the overall energy efficiency of the cool room. Effective sealing minimizes heat transfer, reducing the workload on the refrigeration system. This, in turn, can result in energy cost savings over time. Prevention of Moisture Infiltration The connection serves as a barrier against moisture infiltration. In a cold storage environment, condensation can occur, and a proper connection prevents moisture from entering through gaps in the panel joints, which could lead to issues such as mold growth and deterioration of insulation effectiveness. Structural Integrity The connection between wall and ceiling panels contributes to the structural integrity of the entire cool room. A secure connection ensures that the panels work together as a cohesive unit, providing stability and support to the structure. Hygiene and Sanitation A well-sealed connection is essential for maintaining hygiene standards in cool rooms, especially in industries like food and pharmaceuticals. It prevents the accumulation of dust, contaminants, or pathogens in the joints, promoting a clean and sanitary environment. Compliance with Regulations In certain industries, there may be regulatory requirements for cold storage facilities. Proper connections between wall and ceiling panels ensure compliance with these standards, which is crucial for businesses to meet health and safety regulations. Prevention of Air Leaks A secure connection helps prevent air leaks, which can affect the overall efficiency of the cooling system. Air leaks can lead to energy wastage and compromise the ability of the cool room to maintain the desired low temperatures.