Frequently Asked Questions: Fabric and Applications

What Is the Unique ECONOFROST Reflective Fabric Made of?

The secret to its worldwide success is the attractive, patented 99.9% pure woven aluminum fabric. The woven aluminum is bonded with PVC to give it strength. To avoid oxidation, a transparent film is applied over the aluminum and then the back is coated with a fire-retardant. Finally, the fabric is punched with a precise pattern of holes that allow the fabric to breathe and prevent excessive condensation. ECONOFROST meets all international safety standards for fabrics that are used with electrically operated equipment.

What Are the Benefits of the Reflective Aluminum Fabric?

The unique ECONOFROST material not only prevents warm retail store air from mixing with cold air spillage from cases, but it also deflects radiation and heat that would normally penetrate the cooler interior of the refrigerated display case. The woven aluminum pattern disperses heat radiation in many directions, which is more efficient than dispersing heat in a perpendicular direction.

What Is the Purpose of the Perforations in the Fabric?

Humidity levels in grocery stores are often very high compared to the inside of a refrigeration display case, and condensation can form on the fabric due to the difference in temperature. The perforations, representing 1.5% of the total fabric surface, allow condensation to evaporate regardless of whether the night cover is down or rolled up.

How Should the Aluminum Fabric Be Cleaned?

A light solution of liquid detergent is sufficient to remove any dust that may accumulate on the fabric over a period of time. Usually whatever is used to clean the case will be fine. Do not use abrasive or powdered cleansers.

Should Produce Cases Also Be Enclosed?

In most installations, produce cases should be covered to control energy waste and to protect the produce from wilting overnight or becoming prematurely dried out. Fresh produce must be regularly sprayed with water during the day. During the night, ECONOFROST night covers will maintain the proper temperatures and humidity levels around the produce.

Do Island Coffin Freezers Need To Be Covered?

Since cold air tends to drop to the bottom of island coffin freezers and several air curtains form at the top of the case, it is often assumed that such freezers do not need to be covered. However, many stores have increased the efficiency of these units with the installation of ECONOFROST thermal shields. The aluminum fabric of the night cover block heat radiation as well as the forced hot air that is pumped from the ceiling to ground level of the store. Because these types of freezers cannot be fitted with glass doors, ECONOFROST is the best viable solution for closing them at night.