The challenge: Managing Condensation Caused by Temperature Differences
Condensation can become a significant operational challenge in facilities where cold storage areas are located adjacent to occupied office spaces. At the Woolworths Distribution Centre, temperature differences between refrigerated storage zones and surrounding workplace environments resulted in persistent condensation formation. This led to water dripping onto floors and surfaces in several areas of the facility.
The issue affected frequently used spaces, including meeting rooms, office areas, and staff amenities. Moisture accumulation created potential slip hazards and increased maintenance requirements, while also impacting employee comfort and day-to-day operations.
As a major distribution hub supporting a large network of supermarkets, maintaining safe and efficient working conditions was essential. The facility required a reliable condensation prevention heating system capable of addressing the root cause of the problem while supporting continuous operations.
When warm indoor air comes into contact with colder building surfaces, condensation can form. In industrial and logistics environments, this can lead to:
- Water accumulation on floors and ceilings
- Increased risk of slips and workplace incidents
- Additional cleaning and maintenance requirements
- Reduced comfort in occupied areas
- Potential disruption to daily operations
For the Woolworths Distribution Centre, a long-term solution was needed to control surface temperatures and help prevent condensation in critical transition zones between refrigerated storage and office environments.
The solution: Electric Heating System for Anti-Condensation Protection
Working in partnership with Heat Zone Distribution, Woolworths implemented a purpose-designed electric heating system to help minimise condensation risks across the facility.
The project covered approximately 700.71 m², divided into four controlled heating zones. Thermostats were integrated into switchboards, creating an automated control solution designed to maintain consistent operating conditions with minimal manual intervention.
The installation incorporated the following DEVI products:
- DEVIsnow™ 30T
- DEVIbasic™ Drum Goods
- DEVIreg™ 330
- DEVIbasic™ 10S
Together, these components formed an anti-condensation heating solution designed to provide controlled heat distribution in areas affected by temperature variations.
Installation was carried out by NWR Electrical Services. The industrial heating cables were integrated into the facility infrastructure to support reliable operation while maintaining the functionality of the distribution centre.
The Result: Improved Workplace Safety and Facility Performance
Following installation, the Woolworths Distribution Centre significantly reduced condensation-related issues in the affected areas.
Key outcomes included:
- Reduced occurrence of water dripping caused by condensation
- Improved safety conditions in occupied and high-traffic areas
- Lower ongoing maintenance requirements associated with moisture management
- More stable indoor conditions between cold storage and office zones
- Automated temperature control supporting consistent operation
The condensation prevention heating system continues to support safe day-to-day operations while helping the facility maintain efficient distribution activities.
Project Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Application | Indoor Heating |
| Area Size | 700.71 m² |
| Installed Power | 2743.21 W |
| Products Used | DEVIsnow™ 30T, DEVIbasic™ Drum Goods, DEVIreg™ 330, DEVIbasic™ 10S |
| Implementation Date | September 2021 |
