Insulated panels (e.g., Structural Insulated Panels) stand for advanced building materials, while the core insulation materials, including wood, foam, or mineral wool, are put between two outer layers. Here, we have explored the top 5 benefits of using insulated panels in refrigeration units.
Insulated panels offer superior acoustic and thermal insulation, as well as structural strength for refrigeration units. These panels provide a lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly alternative, with rapid installation and energy-saving facilities.
Research shows that between 2024 and 2032, the industry of composite insulated panels will grow at a 4.54% CAGR and reach 0.63 billion. But what has contributed to this exceptional popularity? It’s because of a plethora of benefits that this blog will discuss.
What Makes Insulation Panels an Integral Part of Refrigeration Units?
Want to make your refrigeration unit better? Having insulation panels installed is the ultimate benefit!
Benefit #1: Exceptional Thermal Efficiency
The thermal efficiency of insulated panels has been a groundbreaking advantage for refrigeration units to last longer and keep food unharmed.
Reduced Heat Transfer
The core area of insulated panels, mostly made of PUF (Polyethane Foam), holds a low thermal conductivity, which minimises the heat transfer to the cold storage unit and maintains a stable temperature.
Consistent Internal Temperature
As coolroom panels prevent heat ingress, they ensure the consistency of internal temperature, benefiting food quality for longer periods. Even if the unit gets exposed to fluctuations of external temperature, the panels protect the quality of stored food.
Lower Energy Consumption
Due to the low energy consumption, these panels not only save energy but also reduce the pressure from the compressor and other components. It helps compressor performance and lifespan.
| Core Material | R-Value per Inch | Common Application |
| Polyisocyanurate (PIR) | R-6.5 – R-7.2 | High-performance cold rooms |
| Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) | R-4 – R-5 | General-purpose cold storage |
| Polyurethane (PUR) | R-6 – R-7 | Freezer rooms, industrial use |
Table 1: R-Values of Common Insulated Panel Materials
Benefit #2: Faster and Cost-Effective Installation
- The use of polyurethane foam for the core area provides effective thermal resistance, ensuring stable and consistent temperatures within the unit with cost-effective practices.
- The non-porous and smooth surface of PUF panels holds precise measurements, which means they are easy to install quickly without any delay.
- The lightweight design of coolroom panels has made them easy to maneuver and handle, contributing to faster construction times and requiring no heavy equipment.
- The ease of assembly has reduced downtime and allowed refrigeration units to operate faster.
- The energy-saving refrigeration panels reduce labour expenses, as the installation is not complex or labour-intensive.
| Facility Type | Estimated Energy Savings | ROI Period (months) |
| Small cold room | 15%–20% | 12–18 |
| Commercial freezer | 20%–30% | 12–24 |
| Large cold warehouse | 30%–40% | 18–36 |
Table 2: Estimated Energy Savings with Insulated Panels
Benefit #3: Hygienic and Easy to Clean Surfaces
- The non-porous and anti-microbial panel surface prevents the internal body from grime, dirt, and pathogens, which is a key factor in ensuring food quality, since hygiene is paramount and a key concern.
- The easy-to-clean surface with better longevity meets stringent regulatory standards, critically protecting pharmaceutical and food products.
- A hygienic and clean internal environment secures the safety and quality of stored foods, preventing foodborne diseases and protecting sensitive products.
- The closed-cell structure of core materials keeps moisture away from food, as well as condensation. Since moisture is a key factor behind bacterial and mould growth, resulting in damaged and stale food, the coolroom panels are widely used.
| Finish Type | Features | Ideal Use Cases |
| Colorbond Steel | Durable, anti-corrosive | Food warehouses, kitchens |
| Stainless Steel | High hygiene, rust-proof | Meat processing, pharma |
| PVC Laminated | Smooth, easy to wipe | General cold storage |
Table 3: Surface Finishes for Cold Room Panels
Benefit #4: Long-Term Durability and Structural Strength
- The insulated panels combine a strong EPS or PUF-based core, reflecting high-strength exterior facings to develop a durable and rigid composite structure.
- The PUR (polyurethane) foam cores, especially, show a stronger resistance to contraction, expansion, cracking, or sagging, which can occur with several other materials due to extreme temperature.
- The structure holds a load-bearing capacity, providing resilience against odd environmental conditions or any physical damage.
- The materials used in the panels prevent rapid degradation and maintain a better insulation performance over time, which is a critical factor protecting food quality.
Benefit #5: Compliance, Fire Rating & Sustainability
- Panels with various materials, such as Mineral Wool or PIR, follow fire safety regulations, preventing flames.
- Insulated panels with greater R-values reduce the transfer of heat, helping to maintain energy-efficiency standards.
- Panels with standards, such as national equivalent (e.g., FM Approved, Codemark in Australia) or Euroclass, ensure that they meet fire-resisting requirements.
- Several panels are eco-friendly in nature and recyclable, ensuring a better utility and lifespan.
Summary
Insulated panels in refrigeration units ensure superior thermal performance, improve hygiene, speed up installation, and increase structural integrity. The core area, holding a low thermal conductivity, ensures the quality of food and temperature. Moreover, its fire-protecting notion and sustainable approaches have made refrigeration units more reliable and useful.
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