The drainage slope of a cold storage floor is an "invisible defense line" for controlling humidity and ensuring the safety of stored goods. A common issue in many installations is insufficient drainage slope, where the floor is not tilted according to the standard gradient of 5‰ to 8‰. This leads to the accumulation and evaporation of condensate, causing moisture-sensitive goods like traditional Chinese medicinal materials, fruits, and vegetables to become damp or moldy. What may seem like a minor oversight in construction can directly result in reduced product quality or even total loss, leading to economic damage. The 5‰ to 8‰ drainage slope is scientifically grounded, meaning a height difference of 5 to 8 millimeters per meter of floor, allowing gravity to quickly channel condensate toward drainage outlets. During cold storage operation, moisture in the air condenses into water when it meets the cold floor. Without a proper slope, this water forms stagnant pools. Persistent standing water evaporates, sharply increasing the relative humidity inside the storage.
When humidity exceeds 65%, medicinal materials are prone to moisture absorption, clumping, and loss of active ingredients, while fruits and vegetables may develop mold and rot spots due to dampness. Insufficient drainage slope can also trigger a chain of problems. Long-term water accumulation can seep into the floor base, causing surface dusting, cracking, and compromising the integrity of the insulation layer, which in turn increases cooling energy consumption. Additionally, a humid environment accelerates the corrosion of shelves, pallets, and other equipment, shortening their service life. In contrast, a properly sloped floor, combined with corrosion-resistant drainage channels and floor drains, ensures rapid removal of condensate, maintaining a stable and safe humidity level of 45% to 60% in the storage. Floor construction must balance both slope and waterproofing. Start with a sloped base layer, using cement mortar to level the floor at a 5‰ to 8‰ gradient, ensuring an even slope without dead zones.
The surface should then be coated with low-temperature-resistant, corrosion-resistant materials like epoxy or polyurethane to prevent water penetration. After construction, a water splash test can verify drainage effectiveness—observing whether water flows quickly to the drainage outlets with no significant pooling indicates compliance. Cold storage construction cannot afford the misconception of "prioritizing cooling over drainage." The drainage slope is a critical detail in ensuring product quality. Taking the time to properly slope the floor during construction may seem like extra effort initially, but it effectively prevents risks like moldy goods and floor damage. This ensures the cold storage maintains both constant temperature and humidity, providing a secure environment for all types of stored goods.
