Cold or Temperature Controlled Storage: Adapting Racks to Thermal Constraints

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27May

2025

Groupe ITC Conseils Installation Produits

In the world of logistics and warehousing, cold storage or temperature controlled storage is a major challenge. From pharmaceuticals to food, to some electronic components, many goods require strict thermal conditions to maintain their integrity and effectiveness. But beyond the simple regulation of ambient temperature, what about storage equipment itself? How do racks adapt to these demanding environments?

The Importance of Resistance to Extreme Temperatures

A cold store is not an ordinary warehouse. Temperatures can drop well below freezing, sometimes reaching extreme levels. Under these conditions, traditional materials can become brittle, corrode more quickly or deform. This is where the importance of choosing shelving solutions specifically designed for these environments comes into play.

Materials: Galva steel, stainless steel and composites

To cope with thermal stress, several material options are available:

Hot Galvanized Steel (Galva): This is a very common solution, the galvanizing process creates a protective layer of zinc that offers excellent corrosion resistance, an indispensable asset in wet and cold environments where condensation can be an issue. Galvanized steel is also robust and can withstand heavy loads.

Stainless Steel (Inox): For the most demanding environments, especially those where hygiene is paramount (food or pharmaceutical sectors), stainless steel is the material of choice. Its superior corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning make it a preferred option, although its cost is generally higher.
Specific Composite and Plastic Materials: Less common for main load-bearing structures, some rack components such as decks or feet can be made from composite materials or engineering plastics. These offer lightness and excellent thermal insulation, thus reducing thermal bridges.

Rack Design: More than a Matter of Material

In addition to the choice of material, the design of racks must be designed for cold areas:

Fastening Systems and Connections: Temperature variations can cause materials to expand or contract. Fastening systems shall be designed to absorb these movements without compromising the stability of the structure. High quality welds and specific bolts are essential.
Air circulation: Good air circulation is crucial in a cold store to ensure consistent temperature and avoid hot or cold spots that could damage products. Rack designs need to allow for this flow, sometimes via mesh shelves or optimized spacing.
Frost and Ice Protection: In some environments, frost and ice can build up on the racks, reducing grip and making operations unsafe. Some solutions incorporate anti-frost coatings or de-icing systems.
Operator safety: Working in the cold requires special attention to safety. Racks should be designed to minimize the risk of slipping or colliding with frozen equipment.

In conclusion, the choice and design of racks for cold or temperature-controlled storage should not be taken lightly. They are an essential pillar of operational efficiency and product quality preservation. By investing in the right solutions, companies can not only optimize their storage space but also ensure the safety of their goods and employees.