A robotic logistics complex for 700 million rubles in Rostov-on-Don

In Rostov-on-Don, construction of a robotic logistics complex based on the North Caucasus Logistics Enterprise (SKLP) has begun on Lugovaya Street. The project, worth 700 million rubles, involves the creation of a 2,200-square-meter warehouse equipped with a fully automated control system based on domestic software. Initially, in October 2025, the investment was estimated at 1 billion rubles, but the project's optimization has led to a reduction in the budget. At the moment, the installation of load-bearing columns and enclosing structures is underway, and a contract has been signed for the supply and installation of technological equipment.

This project will be a significant event not only for the logistics industry in the region, but also for related sectors, particularly for companies that provide industrial refrigeration equipment. The impact will be multifaceted, affecting both the demand for equipment and the requirements for its specifications.

The impact of construction on industrial refrigeration equipment companies

First, the construction of a robotic warehouse will create a direct demand for refrigeration systems, as a modern logistics complex, especially one that operates with cargo in an automated mode, requires maintaining strictly defined temperature conditions. Even if the warehouse is not specifically designed for food products, it may store goods that are sensitive to temperature changes, such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and chemicals. Therefore, companies that produce industrial refrigeration equipment will receive new orders for delivery and installation.

Secondly, robotization imposes increased requirements on the reliability and controllability of refrigeration systems. The equipment must be integrated with the overall warehouse automation system, have digital interfaces for remote control, and be able to operate without constant human presence. This encourages manufacturers to develop more intelligent and energy-efficient solutions.

Thirdly, the successful implementation of such a project in Rostov can serve as a demonstration example for other investors. If the complex proves to be effective, it may lead to new orders for similar warehouses in other cities, expanding the market for refrigeration equipment. Companies that can offer proven solutions for automated systems will gain a competitive advantage.

What industrial refrigeration equipment is used in such projects and what are its functions

The 2,200-square-meter robotic logistics complex uses several types of refrigeration equipment, each with its own function.

• The first is central refrigeration machines (chillers). This is the basis of the cooling system. Chillers produce cold water or glycol mixture, which is then supplied to air coolers or fan coils. In projects of this scale, chillers with screw or scroll compressors are commonly used. The characteristics include a cooling capacity of 50 to 300 kW, the ability to operate in a wide temperature range (from -10 to +15 °C at the outlet), and high energy efficiency (COP of at least 3.5). The function is to provide centralized cooling of the entire warehouse or individual areas.
• The second is industrial-type air coolers (evaporators). They are installed directly in the warehouse areas and distribute cold air. For robotic warehouses, it is important to ensure uniform cooling to avoid condensation on equipment and cargo. These models use axial fans with a fin spacing of 6-10 mm (for low-temperature applications) and are made of stainless steel or aluminum. They have the following characteristics: airflow ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 m³/h and a heat exchange area of up to 200 m². The function is to maintain a specified temperature in a specific storage area.
• Third - refrigeration units for chambers (monoblocks and split systems). If the warehouse has separate freezing or refrigeration chambers for specific cargoes, autonomous units are used. For a robotic complex, models with microprocessor control, remote monitoring capabilities and low noise levels are chosen. Characteristics: temperature range from -25 to +5 °C, refrigerant R-404A or R-448A, power from 2 to 15 kW. Function - isolated cooling of small volumes with high accuracy.
• Fourth - drying and climate control systems. Since the warehouse operates automatically, without a person, it is important to control the humidity to avoid corrosion of equipment and spoilage of cargo. Adsorption or condensation dryers are used. For an area of 2.2 thousand square meters, dryers with a capacity of 50 to 150 liters of moisture per day are sufficient. The function is to maintain the relative humidity at 40-60%.
• Fifth - refrigeration automation and control systems. These are controllers, temperature sensors, control servers. Industrial controllers with support for Modbus, BACnet or MQTT protocols are used for integration with a warehouse robotic system. Characteristics: the number of controlled points from 50 to 200, measurement accuracy of 0.1 °C. Function - data collection, adjustment of operating modes, alarm and adaptation to changing load.

Thus, the construction of a robotic logistics complex in Rostov not only creates demand for industrial refrigeration equipment, but also sets new standards: intelligence, reliability, and energy efficiency. For companies operating in this field, this is an opportunity to strengthen their market position by providing modern systems that can operate in a fully automated mode.