Cold storage for durian This is a key technological solution that helps purchasing agents, cooperatives, and export businesses optimally control the physiological ripening process, extending the freshness of whole durian fruits up to 30-45 days and storing deep-frozen durian segments for up to 24 months while preserving their rich, creamy flavor and natural golden color. Tan Long Refrigeration and Electrical Engineering, with over 20 years of experience as an EPC general contractor, specializes in providing complete design and construction solutions for durian cold storage facilities that meet export standards to China, the US, and the EU.
1. Current market situation & stringent durian export standards
Vietnamese durian is currently a multi-billion dollar agricultural product with outstanding export growth, especially in demanding markets. However, durian is a fruit with a very high rate of respiratory activity (climactic fruit) after harvest. If not promptly placed in the cold chain within 6-12 hours:
- Durian fruits will quickly crack, bruise, and ripen uncontrollably.
- Cracks at the bottom of the durian fruit allow bacteria and mold to penetrate, causing the flesh to turn sour.
- The rate of weight loss due to dehydration can reach 15% – 20% after only a few days of transport.
To meet Phytosanitary Protocol for Durian Export to China, The entire process of preliminary processing, packaging, and storage must strictly adhere to regulations regarding temperature, humidity, and pest control (especially mealybugs and fruit flies).
The integrated cold storage system for durian export was designed and constructed by Tan Long Refrigeration and Electrical Engineering.
2. Two main methods of industrial durian preservation
Depending on the business strategy and export model, Tan Long provides consulting and design services for two specialized technology solutions:
| Technical Specifications | Cold Storage for Whole Durian Fruits | Durian Freezing Chamber (-40°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Intended use | Fresh export by road/sea in refrigerated containers. | Export frozen or vacuum-packed durian segments. |
| Operating temperature range | +13°C to +15°C (do not lower than 12°C to avoid frostbite) | Freezing: -35°C to -40°C | Storage: -18°C to -25°C |
| Relative humidity (RH) | 85% – 90% (anti-darkening and anti-dehydration) | Not applicable (for products already in sealed bags/trays) |
| Storage time | 30-45 days (for durian harvested at the right ripeness) | 18-24 months (maintains texture, sweetness, and color) |
| Optimal refrigerant type | Freon R404A / R507A or Glycol Chiller with indirect cooling. | Two-stage NH3 (R717) refrigerant or two-stage compressed Freon |
Durian segments, after being deep-frozen at -40°C, retain their fibrous structure and do not release liquid after thawing.
3. Technical configuration of the Tan Long durian cold storage system
To ensure continuous 24/7 operation during the peak durian season, Tan Long applies stringent heavy industrial manufacturing standards:
- Insulated warehouse shell: Fire-retardant PIR (Polyisocyanurate) panels, B2 grade, or 100mm-150mm thick PU panels with a high density of 42 kg/m³, featuring camlock or Z-lock fasteners for absolute airtightness. Surface covered with antibacterial Colorbond steel or 304 stainless steel.
- T-Light cold storage doors: T-Light manual or automatic sliding doors are airtight, equipped with double high-elasticity EPDM rubber gaskets, anti-condensation electric resistance heating elements, and Fermod (France) accessories.
- Imported refrigeration compressor unit: Utilizing Bitzer (Germany) or Mycom (Japan) screw compressors, known for their high durability and optimized thermodynamic COP, and incorporating variable frequency drives for stepless control of cooling capacity.
- Specialized air circulation fan system: The industrial refrigeration unit with large impeller blades and high-pressure fan ensures even circulation of cold air throughout the durian crates, effectively preventing temperature dead zones.
- PLC/SCADA automatic control cabinet: Automatically adjusts compressor start/stop cycles, performs periodic defrosting, monitors and logs temperature 24/7 via smartphone, and issues immediate alerts in case of power grid failures.
4. Cold storage capacity calculation table based on storage volume
Below is a table of reference design parameters for standard durian cold storage based on common purchasing loads:
| Storage Scale | Estimated Warehouse Dimensions (L x W x H) | Volume | Air Conditioner Capacity | Recommended Door Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Tons (Small Warehouse) | 6.0m x 4.0m x 3.0m | 72 m³ | 7.5 HP – 10 HP | T-Light hinged door 900x1900mm |
| 25 Tons (1 40ft Container) | 10.0m x 5.0m x 3.5m | 175 m³ | 15 HP – 20 HP | T-Light Manual Sliding Door 1500x2000mm |
| 50 tons (Cooperative) | 14.0m x 7.0m x 4.0m | 392 m³ | 30 HP – 40 HP (Alternating operation) | T-Light Automatic Sliding Door 2000x2500mm |
| 100 – 500 Tons (Export Factory) | Design the zones according to the floor plan layout. | > 800 m³ | NH3/Freon central processing unit system | Dock Leveler + Air Curtain Entrance/Exit System |
5. The 6-step process for deploying durian cold storage at Tan Long.
- Field survey & needs assessment: Tan Long engineers personally visit farms/factories in Dak Lak, Tien Giang, Gia Lai, and Binh Phuoc to measure the site, check the 3-phase power supply, and assess seasonal power requirements.
- Thermodynamic calculations & 3D drawing: Using specialized software to calculate cooling load based on peak hourly import and export volumes, and optimize airflow convection.
- Detailed quotation & EPC contract signing: We will clearly break down the costs of each piece of equipment and guarantee no additional charges will be incurred.
- Manufacturing of components at the 10,000m² Duc Hoa 1 factory: CNC punching of electrical cabinet casings, fabrication of pressure vessels, preparation of panels and T-Light door accessories for a complete set.
- Installation and construction carried out according to technical standards: Our team of professional HVAC technicians handles wall and ceiling installation, compressor unit installation, copper/steel piping, and refrigerant charging.
- Testing, calibration & Handover: Pressure testing, vacuuming, temperature calibration to standard levels, detailed operating instructions, and 24/7 warranty activation.
Get a Quote for a Complete Cold Storage Construction Package for Durian Farming in 2026
Contact Tan Long Refrigeration and Electrical Project Department directly to receive advice from our chief engineer on the most cost-effective and energy-efficient technical solutions for your durian harvest season.
