Insulation panels serve as the "thermal barrier" for low-temperature cold storage facilities, and their material selection directly determines insulation effectiveness and operating costs. A common installation issue involves substituting standard EPS foam boards for specialized polyurethane panels. While this may appear to reduce upfront expenses, it ultimately leads to insulation failure due to the doubled thermal conductivity, causing frequent temperature fluctuations within the storage facility and creating multiple risks for both stored goods and equipment operation. Thermal conductivity is the core indicator of insulation performance. Polyurethane panels typically have a thermal conductivity of ≤0.024 W/(m·K), while EPS foam boards generally measure above 0.048 W/(m·K)—effectively doubling heat transfer capacity. During the operation of a low-temperature cold storage facility, EPS boards fail to effectively block heat exchange between the interior and exterior. External heat continuously infiltrates, while internal cold dissipates significantly, forcing the refrigeration system to cycle frequently to maintain temperature, thereby accelerating component wear and tear. The temperature fluctuations caused by inadequate insulation are highly detrimental. For frozen products requiring storage below -18°C, repeated temperature fluctuations can rupture cellular structures, leading to water loss and deterioration upon thawing. Simultaneously, temperature instability disrupts humidity control, causing moisture to condense on product surfaces and accelerating mold growth. Additionally, prolonged high-load operation of the refrigeration unit drastically increases electrici ty consumption, potentially raising monthly electricity costs by over 30%—far exceeding the initial savings on material costs. Selecting insulation panels for low-temperature cold storage must adhere to strict standards:

· Prioritize high-density polyurethane panels, which feature a high closed-cell rate and strong low-temperature resistance, maintaining stable performance even at -40°C.

· Verify material test reports before installation to confirm compliance with key indicators such as thermal conductivity and density.

· Fill panel joints with specialized sealant to eliminate thermal gaps and enhance overall insulation effectiveness.

            Low-temperature cold storage insulation cannot afford material compromises. The performance gap between EPS foam boards and polyurethane panels directly affects the stable operation of the facility. Upholding material standards during the initial phase may seem to increase investment, but it ultimately achieves long-term operational benefits by reducing energy consumption and minimizing product loss through consistent thermal performance. Prioritizing insulation panel quality is fundamental to ensuring the safe operation of low-temperature cold storage facilities.