What Are Low Temperature PVC Strip Curtains?
The Complete Guide to Polar Grade PVC & Chiller Blinds
Why Temperature Matters in Cold Storage
In environments like walk-in freezers, refrigerated warehouses and chilled processing areas, maintaining a consistent low temperature is vital. Heat exchange, condensation, frost build-up and energy loss are all major challenges in cold storage management. Controlling these extreme environments can be costly and can be difficult to maintain.
This is where low temperature PVC strip curtains – also called polar grade PVC or chiller blinds – become invaluable. They help form a flexible, energy-efficient barrier that keeps cold air in and warm air out. But how do they work? And are they right for your facility?
In this complete guide, we explore the features, benefits and applications of polar grade strip curtains, and explain how they help you maintain strict cold chain compliance.
What Is Polar Grade PVC?
Polar grade PVC is a specially formulated type of flexible PVC that remains soft and pliable even in extreme cold temperatures. While standard PVC begins to stiffen and crack below 0°C, polar grade PVC performs reliably in conditions as low as -25°C.
This makes Polar grade PVC the perfect option for really cold environments and freezers. These curtains will stay durable even in the coldest temperatures.
Polar PVC is the best solution for saving energy where there is a lot of traffic through doors. The polar PVC ensures that there is good thermal insulation and prevents the cold from escaping from the room, even if there is a lot of through traffic. Thus this is the perfect solution for businesses that want to ensure that there is no energy loss and cold escaping from their refrigerated rooms. This is also important for keeping the products in these rooms from decomposing or defrosting when the cold air escapes.
What Are Chiller Blinds?
“Chiller blinds” is a common term used for low temperature PVC strips used in commercial refrigeration. You’ll often see them hanging in front of open-front chillers in supermarkets or small cold room entrances.
They work exactly like polar PVC curtains but are often narrower and lighter to accommodate customer traffic or hand-picking operations. They often don’t have plates or metal hanging rails, and are usually mounted with a food safe plastic and mounted in commercial refrigeration.
How Do Low Temperature Strip Curtains Work?
Low temperature PVC curtains work by reducing the flow of warm air into chilled zones and minimising cold air loss. The overlapping strips form a semi-sealed barrier while still allowing easy passage for people and trolleys.
PVC Curtains: A Cost-Effective Solution for Restaurants
Benefits of Low Temp Curtains:
- Preserve internal temperatures for cold chain compliance
- Reduce energy consumption in refrigerated areas
- Minimise frost and ice build-up on floors and evaporator coils
- Help maintain hygiene by keeping contaminants out
- Improve safety by reducing condensation and slippery surfaces
These benefits are especially important in high-traffic areas, where traditional solid doors would slow operations or remain open for long periods.
Where Should You Use Polar Grade Strip Curtains?
Low temperature strip curtains are suitable for any environment where sub-zero or chilled conditions need to be maintained efficiently:
Here are the most common places these polar grade strip curtains are used:
- Walk-in Freezers – Prevent heat exchange while allowing staff access.
- Cold Rooms – Used in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and storage.
- Supermarket Chillers – Keep cold air contained in open-facing fridges.
- Distribution Depots – Maintain cold zones between loading bays and storage.
- Cold Chain Logistics – In refrigerated lorries or docking areas.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper installation and upkeep are key to ensuring your low temperature PVC curtains continue to perform:
- Use stainless steel hanging systems to prevent rust in humid cold zones
- Install curtains inside the doorway, not outside, to retain cold air
- Replace damaged or cracked strips to maintain thermal efficiency
- Clean regularly to prevent bacteria build-up in food-related environments
Frequently Asked Questions
Can they be used in blast freezers?
Yes, our polar grade PVC remains flexible at -40°C and is suitable for blast freezer applications. Just ensure to use the Super Polar range.
Do they reduce energy bills?
Absolutely. By preventing warm air from entering, they significantly reduce the energy required to maintain low temperatures.
Are they compatible with automation systems?
Yes. We offer options that integrate with sliding tracks, sensor-controlled entry systems and high-speed door frames.
Conclusion: Why You Should Invest in Low Temp PVC Curtains
Low temperature PVC strip curtains are a simple yet highly effective solution for maintaining chilled environments. Whether you’re operating a supermarket, a walk-in freezer or a refrigerated warehouse, they provide the insulation, flexibility and hygiene your facility needs.
Build your own PVC Strip Curtain and recieve an instant quote!
Save yourself time and create your own bespoke curtain from our strip curtain calculator. This will give you the opportunity to create a complete custom curtain which will be made to your measurements and shipped to you within a few days.