Examination of economically and practically homogeneous air and temperature distribution in cold stores by CFD analysis

Abstract

In order to reduce the storage costs of fruits in cold stores, more products are placed than necessary. Since homogeneous speed and temperature distribution cannot be achieved due to overloading in cold stores, partial losses and quality reductions occur in products. Since the initial investment costs of methods such as using ducts and fans recommended for homogeneous air and temperature distribution are high, they are not used to a large extent. In this study; In order to analyze and improve the air and temperature distribution in the cold store, first of all, temperature and velocity measurements were made at certain points in a cold store filled with Granny Smith apples. Deflector panels that are placed at different angles are used to provide homogeneous velocity and temperature distributions. Using these measurements, the CFD model was created and validated. ANSYS-Fluent program was used for CFD analysis. With the analyzes made on the model, the problematic points in the air and temperature distribution were determined and it was seen that the panel with a vertical angle of 63° gave the best results among the deflector panels placed at different angles to eliminate these problems. Since the proposed solution is economically extremely cost-effective, it is anticipated that it can be applied to all cold storage regardless of size, location, and stored product. As a result of this practical, easy, and economical application, both product losses and energy consumption will be reduced, and the products will be preserved for a longer period of time while maintaining their quality.