In the food storage and processing industry, the prevention of frost accumulation is critical to ensure smooth operations and product integrity. In regions with humid climates, cold stores face heightened risks of frost build-up, which can disrupt logistics and compromise efficiency. A leading facility in the MENA region was confronted with these challenges in their dynamic mobile racking cold storage system, where frost posed a constant operational threat.
The Challenge: Humidity Infiltration
The cold store operates across different temperature zones, ranging from +4 °C to as low as –25 °C, depending on the product category. Frequent door openings, coupled with humid outside conditions, created substantial moisture infiltration. Once inside, the moisture crystallised, causing frost formation around dynamic shelving tracks, aisles, and cooling units. This not only reduced available storage space but also slowed down logistics, increased safety risks, and raised energy costs due to reduced cooling efficiency.
The Solution: Cotes Cold Store Dehumidifiers
To address these persistent issues, the facility turned to Cotes’ local partner, Bizeyes, for a dry-air solution with Cotes adsorption dehumidifiers. After risk assessment, C35C from Cotes cold store range was the selected unit, as well as. a C65E installed in the corridor, chosen for their proven ability to manage humidity under demanding conditions. These dehumidifiers prevent frost from forming by removing excess moisture before it can settle in the cold environment, ensuring that both –10 °C and –25 °C rooms remain clear of ice.
This frost-free environment is what makes dynamic shelving systems possible. Without precise humidity control from Cotes dehumidifiers, frost would seize moving racks, making the investment in mobile racking ineffective.
C35C |
C65E |
Results: Zero Frost, Maximum Efficiency
The installation of Cotes units delivered immediate operational benefits. Frost build-up was eliminated, maintaining clear aisles and maximising the efficiency of dynamic shelving/racking systems. By enabling shelves to move freely and safely, the system increased usable storage capacity by up to 70%, delivering substantial cost savings. Energy performance was optimised as cooling systems no longer had to compensate for frost accumulation. With stable and frost-free conditions, staff could operate safely, and goods could be moved swiftly without costly interruptions.
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Client Feedback
The facility reported strong satisfaction with the results, highlighting the robustness of the Cotes solution in a challenging climate. They praised the system’s reliability in securing operations against frost-related risks and confirmed that the installation delivered measurable value in both efficiency and safety.
“The best dehumidifier you can buy for –25°C cold rooms”
Why Frost Control is Essential in Mobile Racking Cold Stores
Managing humidity and frost in cold storage is vital for several reasons:
- Operational Efficiency: Frost obstructs racking movement, slows logistics, and increases downtime.
- Energy Savings: Ice build-up forces cooling systems to work harder, raising energy consumption.
- Safety: Frost increases risks of accidents and equipment damage.
- Product Protection: Consistent frost-free conditions ensure that stored goods retain quality and integrity.
Cotes offers a solution that ensures frost-free cold stores where dynamic mobile racking systems can operate reliably. Without Cotes dehumidifiers, this technology and its potential cost savings would not be achievable.
By integrating Cotes adsorption dehumidifiers, the cold store achieved a zero-frost environment, securing smooth operations and reinforcing its position as a leading player in the food storage sector.
Do you also face humidity challenges in your production environment? Talk to one of our expert partners to find out how dry-air solutions can safeguard your operations.
