Converting Dry Storage to a Cold DC

Grocery supplier C&S Wholesale Grocers of Troutdale, OR, tasked ESI Group USA with converting an existing 75,908 sq. ft. of speculative dry storage into a refrigerated distribution center, with a refrigerated dock, both of which needed to operate at 35℉.

Exterior concrete walls were lined with insulated metal panels and a new ceiling installed.  In order to properly extend the liner panel down the foundation walls, a 2-ft. wide strip of concrete was removed along the perimeter walls. This ensured that a proper perimeter insulation was installed to prevent any condensation.

An ammonia refrigeration skid package was installed outside the building. The skid was prefabricated with all equipment, interconnected piping, enclosed with insulated metal panels, and the evaporative condenser was placed directly above the skid. This eliminated the need to construct a new refrigeration equipment room on-site.

“The conversion of this existing speculative dry warehouse into a refrigerated distribution center allowed C&S to enter a new market much quicker than build a new building,” said Tim Nguyen, senior vice president of ESI Group USA.

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