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Home / News / Industry News / Why can air cooling flake ice machine produce soft, flexible ice cubes?
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Air cooling flake ice machines can produce soft and flexible ice flakes, rather than traditional ice cubes, due to their unique ice-making process and the characteristics of flake ice. Here's why air cooling flake ice machines produce this type of ice:
1. Ice Formation Process:
- Air cooling flake ice machines operate by spraying a thin layer of water onto a cooled, rotating drum or evaporator plate. As the water comes into contact with the cold surface, it freezes almost instantly. The ice forms in thin layers, creating soft and flexible flakes rather than solid ice cubes.
2. Thin, Flat Shape:
- Flake ice is characterized by its thin, flat shape with irregular edges. This flat and thin configuration makes the ice flexible and easy to mold or conform to the shape of surfaces or products.
3. Low Ice Temperature:
- Flake ice is typically produced at a temperature slightly below freezing (around -5°C to -10°C or 23°F to 14°F). This low temperature contributes to the softness and pliability of the ice flakes.
4. High Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio:
- Flake ice has a high surface area relative to its volume. This characteristic allows it to rapidly absorb heat when in contact with products, making it effective for cooling applications. The large surface area also contributes to the ice's flexibility.
5. Quick Melting:
- Flake ice has a relatively quick melting rate due to its thin and irregular shape. This quick melting property is advantageous in applications where rapid cooling is needed, and minimal residual ice is desired.
6. Conformity and Malleability:
- Flake ice is malleable and can easily conform to the shape of products or containers. This property is particularly useful in applications such as food displays, where ice needs to create visually appealing presentations.
7. No Sharp Edges:
- Unlike traditional ice cubes with sharp corners and edges, flake ice is free from sharp points. This reduces the risk of injury when handling or using the ice.
8. Versatility:
- Flake ice's soft and flexible nature makes it versatile for a wide range of applications, including food storage, food displays (e.g., seafood), medical applications (e.g., preserving samples or transporting vaccines), and cocktails.
9. Non-Clogging:
- Flake ice is less likely to clog delivery systems compared to other ice types. Its thin and flat shape allows for smooth and efficient flow in conveyance and distribution systems.
10. Uniform Consistency:
- High-quality air cooling flake ice machines are designed to produce ice flakes with uniform consistency, ensuring that each flake is similar to the next.
The unique process of creating ice in thin, flat layers and the low temperature at which it is produced result in soft, flexible, and versatile ice flakes. This type of ice is favored in various industries and applications where rapid cooling, conformability, and visual appeal are important factors.
