Development of moveable cold storage structure for fruits and vegetables

Abstract

In the present study, a moveable cold storage structure was developed and its performance was evaluated by determining the cooling efficiency. Based on design considerations, crate size and its capacity, the size of the storage structure was fabricated. Based on cooling load 0.8 TR Air conditioner with Sub-Zero temperature controller was installed. The cold storage was evaluated under no-load condition at 8, 12 and 16°C, respectively. The average temperature and RH maintained inside the cold storage was 8.79 °C & 75.30 %, 12.82 °C & 74.78 % and 16.90 °C & 75.20% corresponding to 8, 12 and 16°C. The average cooling efficiency of the developed cold storage at three set temperatures was 91.26, 89.69 and 87.06 %, respectively. This storage will helps to increase shelf life of fruits and vegetables and sold in off season to fetch higher prices.