Mail

[email protected]

Phone

+90 (553) 459 36 58

Address

Sivas, Türkiye

How Do Cooling Systems Work? – The Role of R404A Gas in Cold Storage Rooms

Cold Room - Cold Storage - Walk-in Chiller - Freezer

❄️ How Do Cooling Systems Work? The Role of R404A Gas in Cold Storage Rooms

One of the most frequently asked questions in cold storage room installation is how the cooling system actually works. Especially when it comes to storing meat, poultry, dairy, and frozen foods, understanding the operation of the system becomes essential. In this article, we’ll break down the basic working principle of cold storage cooling systems and highlight the role of R404A refrigerant gas in these systems.

🧊 What Is a Cold Storage Cooling System?

A cold storage room is an insulated environment where food, pharmaceuticals, and certain industrial products are kept at a stable temperature. These rooms operate using a cooling cycle consisting of four main components:

  • Compressor

  • Condenser

  • Expansion valve

  • Evaporator

To make the system work, a refrigerant gas is required — and that’s where R404A comes into play.

🔄 How Does the Cooling System Work? (Step-by-Step)

  • Compressor
    R404A refrigerant gas enters the compressor as low-pressure vapor from the evaporator. The compressor compresses it, increasing its pressure and temperature.

  • Condenser
    The high-pressure, hot gas flows through the condenser, where it releases heat to the outside environment and turns into a high-pressure liquid.

  • Expansion Valve
    The high-pressure liquid passes through the expansion valve, where its pressure drops rapidly. This causes the refrigerant to cool and partially evaporate.

 

  • Evaporator
    In the evaporator, the cold refrigerant absorbs heat from inside the cold room. As it absorbs heat, it fully evaporates and turns into vapor again — then returns to the compressor. The cycle repeats.

🧪 What Is R404A and Why Is It Used?

R404A is a widely used refrigerant in commercial and industrial refrigeration systems. It’s commonly preferred for deep freezers, cold storage warehouses, and refrigerated transport.

✅ Advantages of R404A:

  • Can provide temperatures as low as -40°C

  • Suitable for systems that store perishable food

  • High efficiency and cooling power

  • Stable and reliable performance

⚠️ Important Considerations:

 

  • Has a high Global Warming Potential (GWP: 3920)

  • Usage in new systems is restricted in some regions (especially EU)

  • Must be handled by trained professionals

📌 Conclusion

Cooling systems in cold storage rooms are not just a few technical components; they are precision-engineered setups where choosing the right refrigerant, insulation, and equipment is key. R404A refrigerant gas remains one of the most commonly used options in low-temperature applications due to its power and reliability.

If you’re planning to build a cold room, understanding how the system works and which refrigerant to use will give you a significant advantage.