Potato and Onion Cold Storage Facility Installation: Modern Storage Guide
Potato and Onion Cold Storage Facility Installation: Modern Storage Guide
Storing agricultural products under correct conditions after harvest is vital for maintaining product quality and
preventing economic losses for producers. Especially staple foods like potatoes and onions can rapidly sprout, rot,
or lose weight under improper storage conditions. Therefore, modern potato and onion cold storage facility
installation stands out as one of the most profitable and strategic agricultural investments.
1. Proper Site Selection and Feasibility
The first and most crucial step of facility installation is determining the correct location:
Logistics Convenience: Proximity of the facility to main highways and production fields directly reduces
transportation costs.
Infrastructure Capabilities: Uninterrupted power supply and proximity to water resources are indispensable.
High-voltage energy infrastructure may be required for high-capacity facilities.
Soil Mechanics: A robust foundation structure capable of supporting the structure's load prevents future
structural issues.
2. Ideal Storage Conditions
The physiological structures of potatoes and onions differ significantly. Therefore, separate rooms or distinct climate
zones must be established within the facility:
Potato Storage Conditions: Temperatures are generally maintained between +4°C and +8°C. High humidity
levels of 90% - 95% and controlled fresh air circulation to prevent carbon dioxide buildup are essential.
Onion Storage Conditions: Temperatures should range between 0°C and +2°C. Relative humidity should be
lower than that of potatoes, around 70% - 75%, as high humidity causes mold growth in onions.
3. Technical Stages of Installation
Projecting and implementing a cold storage facility involves rigorous engineering stages:
Project & Engineering Design: Architectural and mechanical designs are drafted by calculating storage
capacity (tonnage), storage duration, and handling circulation.
Insulation & Panels: High-performance sandwich panels are preferred for thermal insulation. For floor
insulation, high-compression-strength XPS foam and vapor barriers are utilized to eliminate thermal bridges.
Polyurethane Pressure Injection & Refrigeration: Compressor and evaporator groups suited for the product
load are selected. PLC-based automation systems precisely manage temperature, humidity, and fresh air ratios.
4. Advantages of Facility Investment
Modern storage investments reduce spoilage and weight loss rates—which can reach up to 30% in traditional
warehouses—down to 2-3%. Instead of selling products at low harvest-season prices, storing them until supply
decreases ensures higher profitability while preserving product quality and nutritional value.